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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Biarritz?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Biarritz can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a character-filled, vibrant, and gothic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and theater.

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.

Edinburgh and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Biarritz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Edinburgh than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Biarritz is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Edinburgh is more touristy than Biarritz and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Biarritz is well known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Edinburgh different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is an excellent place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Biarritz is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Biarritz is not a theatre destination.

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

Biarritz is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Biarritz has a huge number of terrific 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).

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Edinburgh and Biarritz.

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Biarritz is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for Music?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Biarritz is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

In Biarritz, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

Is Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is a very popular place for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Biarritz attract visitors from all over. 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Edinburgh is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Biarritz?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Edinburgh and Biarritz.

Edinburgh is well-known for its shopping. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Biarritz are excellent to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Biarritz are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Edinburgh is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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

Is Edinburgh or Biarritz Better for Students?

Edinburgh is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Edinburgh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Edinburgh and Biarritz.

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

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 Edinburgh or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Biarritz?

Both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Biarritz 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Edinburgh or Biarritz?

The beautiful city of Edinburgh offers theater 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the seaside town of Biarritz. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Biarritz?

Edinburgh is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edinburgh, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Biarritz. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Biarritz?

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxing seaside town of Biarritz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this seaside town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside town has to offer.

A week in Edinburgh or Biarritz?

Edinburgh 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 city offers something for everyone.

Biarritz is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Biarritz, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Edinburgh and Biarritz, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive? and Is Biarritz Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Biarritz?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Edinburgh is cooler than Biarritz in the summer. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Biarritz. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Edinburgh during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Edinburgh is much colder than Biarritz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Edinburgh in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Biarritz averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Edinburgh gets 90 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. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Biarritz. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. In January, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 3°C (38°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 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, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Biarritz. The spring months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

Edinburgh is much colder than Biarritz in the spring. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Edinburgh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Biarritz. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Edinburgh