A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Sounion vs. Biarritz for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Biarritz? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a iconic, impressive, and spectacular destination. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, museums, and food.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a quirky, dynamic, and cultural seaside town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Cape Sounion and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Biarritz. Although Cape Sounion and Biarritz are both popular with visitors, Biarritz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Biarritz is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Cape Sounion is known for its museums and impressive beauty. Biarritz is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. It is also home to Grande Plage. Cape Sounion is popular for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

How is Cape Sounion different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Cape Sounion is renowned for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Cape Sounion are world-renowned. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

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.


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

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Biarritz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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).

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Sounion is lacking in options for nightlife.

Biarritz has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Is Cape Sounion or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.

Biarritz is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Biarritz is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Cape Sounion to enjoy the beach. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Biarritz Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Biarritz. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cape Sounion. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.


Is Cape Sounion or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Biarritz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Is Cape Sounion or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cape Sounion and Biarritz.

Cape Sounion has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

You'll find some public transit in Biarritz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.


Is Cape Sounion or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

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

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Both Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cape Sounion, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Biarritz than Cape Sounion if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Biarritz.


  • How many days in Cape Sounion or Biarritz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Biarritz 3-7

One day in Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

The destination of Cape Sounion offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this dynamic seaside town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Cape Sounion is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this destination makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Sounion, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Biarritz is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Cape Sounion is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxing destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Cape Sounion is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This destination offers something for everyone.

Biarritz is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Biarritz or Cape Sounion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, while the average daily cost in Biarritz is €131. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cape Sounion and Biarritz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Biarritz 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Biarritz 148
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Biarritz

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion or Biarritz? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cape Sounion


Hotels in Biarritz


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Biarritz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Biarritz 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

Also for Biarritz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • San Sebastian: Optimized transfer to Biarritz & surroundings: $262
  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $229
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $167
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $167
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $71
  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $70
  • Biarritz : Optimized transfer to/from Bordeaux: $749
  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Prices for flights to both Biarritz and Cape Sounion change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cape Sounion 41
    Biarritz 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Biarritz Food Tour Gastronomique- Taste 10 Basque specialties: $76
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $97
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $240

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Biarritz 16

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Bayonne Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $279
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Biarritz, Bayonne, and Basque Country: Private Driving Tour: $957
  • 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: $187
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • French Basque Country Coastline tour in a 70'sVW Van: $457
  • French Basque Country Private Day Tour in an 70's VW Combi: $599

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    Biarritz 8.05


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Sounion and Biarritz, we can see that Cape Sounion is more expensive. And not only is Biarritz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Biarritz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Biarritz and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cape Sounion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Sounion than you might in Biarritz.

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


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Biarritz?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

In July, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 27°C (81°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Biarritz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Cape Sounion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Biarritz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Biarritz. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Sounion in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Biarritz averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Biarritz. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

In April, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 16°C (60°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion Biarritz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)


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