A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cefalu vs. Biarritz for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Cefalu or Biarritz?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cefalu and Biarritz. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a coastal, historic, and touristy fishing village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a quirky, dynamic, and cultural seaside town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Cefalu and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Cefalu or Biarritz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cefalu than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cefalu is better known for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is more popular for its nightlife and shopping. Cefalu is well known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. Also, Cefalu is famous for the beaches. Biarritz is well known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Cefalu different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cefalu
Biarritz

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Cefalu and Biarritz.

While most people don't head to Cefalu specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

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 Cefalu or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cefalu
Biarritz

Foodies will find both Cefalu and Biarritz both to be superb destinations.

Cefalu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

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 Cefalu or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Cefalu
Biarritz

Biarritz is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Cefalu or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Cefalu
Biarritz

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Cefalu and Biarritz.

There are plenty of resorts in Cefalu to choose from. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

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.


Is Cefalu or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Cefalu
Biarritz

Cefalu and Biarritz both offer superb beaches.

Many people visit Cefalu for it's beautiful beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

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.

Is Cefalu or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu
Biarritz

Cefalu 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 Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is Cefalu or Biarritz Better for Hiking?

Cefalu
Biarritz

Cefalu is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Biarritz?

Cefalu
Biarritz

Biarritz is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Biarritz is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Cefalu or Biarritz Better for Families?

Cefalu
Biarritz

Biarritz is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Biarritz is very family-friendly. 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 Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

Is Cefalu or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Cefalu
Biarritz

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

Cefalu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

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 Cefalu or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cefalu
Biarritz

Biarritz is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

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

Cefalu
Biarritz

Biarritz is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Cefalu or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Cefalu
Biarritz

Cefalu and Biarritz are superb when it comes to walkability.

Cefalu is a very walkable fishing village. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

Biarritz is a very walkable destination. 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 Cefalu Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Biarritz?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Biarritz than Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Biarritz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cefalu 1-3 
    Biarritz 3-7

One day in Cefalu or Biarritz?

Cefalu is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Cefalu or Biarritz?

Cefalu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this fishing village makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cefalu, 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 Cefalu or Biarritz?

Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Biarritz?

Cefalu 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 fishing village offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural 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 Adventure Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Biarritz or Cefalu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cefalu is €119, 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 Cefalu and Biarritz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cefalu 87
    Biarritz 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cefalu 174
    Biarritz 148
Compare Hotels in Cefalu and Biarritz

Looking for a hotel in Cefalu 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 Cefalu


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: Cefalu Hotel Prices and Biarritz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cefalu 4.29
    Biarritz 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

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

  • Transfer Palermo Airport - Cefalù and vice versa: $174
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa: $104
  • Le Calette, Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Hotel Kalura, Cefalù for Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Departure Private Transfer Cefalù to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car or Van: $156
  • Costa Verde HOTEL Cefalù, for Palermo airport, Private Transfer: $87
  • Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer: $98

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 Cefalu or Biarritz?

Prices for flights to both Biarritz and Cefalu 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
    Cefalu 28
    Biarritz 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cefalu

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

  • Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse: $251

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.
    Cefalu 5.71
    Biarritz 16

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

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

  • Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours: $125
  • Safari Jeep Wild Adventure: $136
  • Cefalu Etna wild jeep experience: $272
  • Etna tour from Cefalù: $62
  • High Madonie wild jeep adventure: $163
  • Madonie wild adventure: $224

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
    Cefalu 11
    Biarritz 8.05

Sample the Local Flavors in Cefalu

Also in Cefalu, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $49


When comparing the travel costs between Cefalu and Biarritz, we can see that Biarritz 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 Cefalu Expensive? and Is Biarritz Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Biarritz?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cefalu is a little warmer than Biarritz in the summer. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, 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 Cefalu. Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F) 
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Cefalu during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Biarritz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Cefalu is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cefalu in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Biarritz averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Cefalu gets 189 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. Cefalu usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Cefalu or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Biarritz. Many visitors come to Cefalu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Cefalu is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 10°C (51°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Cefalu gets 153 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, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Cefalu or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Biarritz. Most visitors come to Cefalu for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches and the small town charm.

Cefalu is a little warmer than Biarritz in the spring. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In the spring, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Cefalu usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F) 
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Cefalu

Cefalu Biarritz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)


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