A Travel Price Comparison for France Cannes vs. Biarritz for Food, Resorts, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cannes or Biarritz?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cannes and Biarritz can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cannes

Cannes is a lavish, glitzy, and opulent resort city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a relaxing, quirky, and dynamic seaside town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Cannes and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cannes or Biarritz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cannes. Although Cannes and Biarritz are both popular with visitors, Cannes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cannes is more popular for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is known for its museums and small town charm. Cannes is more touristy than Biarritz and is popular for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. It is also home to Boulevard de la Croisette. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Cannes different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Biarritz and Cannes. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cannes or Biarritz?

Biarritz is a moderate seaside town for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cannes or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cannes is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Cannes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

Dining out in Biarritz is an experience not to be missed. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Both Cannes and Biarritz are great when it comes to partying.

Cannes offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

Biarritz has a large number of nightlife venues. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for Music?

Cannes is renowned for its live music scene. However, Biarritz is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Cannes. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Biarritz is not a live music destination.

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Cannes is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cannes is a great choice. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Biarritz. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cannes is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cannes has a few good snorkeling spots. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Cannes and Biarritz are great choices for a beach vacation.

Cannes is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Biarritz. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Cannes is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cannes or Biarritz?

Cannes is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Cannes draws large crowds to its stores. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Biarritz. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for Families?

Biarritz is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Biarritz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

Cannes is a family-friendly resort city. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Cannes is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cannes makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Couples visit Biarritz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Biarritz is a very popular seaside town for backpackers and budget travelers. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

Is Cannes or Biarritz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Cannes and Biarritz offer good public transit options.

Cannes has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

Biarritz has some public transit options. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Is Cannes or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Cannes and Biarritz both are great when exploring on foot.

Cannes is a very walkable destination. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

Biarritz is very walkable. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Cannes Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Cannes?

How long in Cannes or Biarritz?

Both Cannes and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Cannes. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cannes, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

Families should spend more time in Biarritz than Cannes. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Biarritz, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cannes than Biarritz. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cannes that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Cannes or Biarritz?

The beautiful resort city of Cannes offers shopping and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cannes or Biarritz?

Cannes is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this resort city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cannes, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Biarritz is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cannes or Biarritz?

Cannes is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cannes or Biarritz?

Cannes is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the dynamic destination of Biarritz. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, The Best Coach Bus Tours in France, and The Best Adventure Tours to France.

When comparing the travel costs between Cannes and Biarritz, we can see that Cannes is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cannes Expensive? and Is Biarritz Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cannes or Biarritz?

Cannes has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Cannes and Biarritz, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Cannes or Biarritz?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cannes or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Cannes during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cannes for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cannes is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Cannes average around 23°C (73°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Cannes usually gets less rain in July than Biarritz. Cannes gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cannes or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cannes and Biarritz. The autumn months attract visitors to Cannes because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

Cannes is around the same temperature as Biarritz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cannes averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cannes gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cannes usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Cannes gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cannes or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cannes as well as Biarritz. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cannes this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cannes is around the same temperature as Biarritz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cannes in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Biarritz averages at about 8°C (47°F).

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Cannes usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Cannes gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cannes or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Cannes are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cannes for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Cannes is generally around the same temperature as Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Cannes average around 13°C (56°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In April, Cannes usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Cannes gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Cannes