A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubai vs. Bordeaux for Food, Nightlife, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Dubai or Bordeaux?

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 Dubai and Bordeaux can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a glamorous, opulent, and modern city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a historical, elegant, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai than Bordeaux, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Bordeaux is known for its food and historical sights. Bordeaux is more touristy than Dubai and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Bordeaux is not a skiing destination.

Dubai is a fun local destination for snow skiers. Despite being a desert city, Dubai became famous for its massive indoor ski complex that covers 22,500 square meters. It is located in the Mall of the Emirates.

Bordeaux is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dubai or Bordeaux?

Dubai is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Dubai offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most famous landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. Head to the observation deck for stunning views.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

Is the Food Better in Dubai or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bordeaux has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dubai makes for a great culinary experience. The national dish in the area is khuzi, or ghuzi, which is a meal of roasted lamb or mutton, prepared with rice vegetables and nuts.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Dubai just to party. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Music?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Dubai The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Resorts?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Bordeaux is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Dubai is a great choice. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Bordeaux is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Dubai has a few good snorkeling spots. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Bordeaux is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a popular place for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Dubai is a good option for a beach vacation. There are a number of both private and public beaches in the city. They are almost all man-made, so they are large, flat, and have soft sand. It's also generally safe to swim at most beaches.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Bordeaux?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Dubai make it a world-class shopping destination. With its many malls, souks, and shopping areas, this is the place to go for luxury shopping. Popular items to purchase include gold and diamond jewelry, shawls, and Persian rugs.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Dubai is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Dubai is a very kid-friendly city. This city has family-friendly resorts, skyscrapers with spectacular views, and amusement parks that are fun for the whole family. There are also plenty of fountains that the kids can splash around in.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Bordeaux is a great city for couples. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Bordeaux is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Dubai is a nice destination for couples. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Dubai is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It is known to be an expensive and not so backpacker friendly city, but there are some hostels around that you can stay at.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Dubai is a world-class destination for students. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Dubai. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bordeaux is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Bordeaux offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Dubai has a few public transit options. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Is Dubai or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Bordeaux is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

Dubai is generally not very walkable. It is one of the less pedestrian-friendly cities around the world. There is lots of road work, even in the more walkable areas, so getting around on foot can be challenging.

For even more information, also check out Is Dubai Worth Visiting? and Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Bordeaux?

In either Dubai or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than Bordeaux because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

One day in Dubai or Bordeaux?

Dubai is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Dubai or Bordeaux?

Dubai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dubai or Bordeaux?

Dubai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bordeaux is a fun place to experience. In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dubai or Bordeaux?

Dubai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the elegant destination of Bordeaux. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dubai and Bordeaux, we can see that Dubai is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubai is in Middle East and Bordeaux is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bordeaux would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bordeaux 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 Dubai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dubai than you might in Bordeaux.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Bordeaux?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Bordeaux, 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 Dubai or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Dubai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Bordeaux. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally much warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Bordeaux. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

Dubai is much warmer than Bordeaux in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dubai or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Dubai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Bordeaux gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Bordeaux. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year. January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Bordeaux. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Dubai