A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Faro vs. Bordeaux for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Old Town

Should you visit Faro or Bordeaux?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Faro or Bordeaux, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Faro

Faro is a busy, active, and popular resort town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a historical, elegant, and charming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Faro and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Faro or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bordeaux. Although Faro and Bordeaux are popular destinations, Bordeaux has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bordeaux is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Faro attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Bordeaux is more touristy than Faro and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also well known for Cathédrale Saint-André. Faro is famous for its historical sights and rich culture.

How is Faro different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bordeaux is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

Bordeaux is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bordeaux is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bordeaux is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Faro or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Faro is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Faro know how to have a good time. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

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 Faro or Bordeaux Better for Resorts?

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Faro is a great choice. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Bordeaux is not a resort destination.

Is Faro or Bordeaux Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Faro has a few good snorkeling spots. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Bordeaux is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Faro or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

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

Faro is a good option for a beach vacation. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Faro or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Faro and Bordeaux both have nice historical old towns that attract visitors.

Faro is a good destination for visiting its old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Many people head to Bordeaux to see the old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Faro or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is great for shopping. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Faro offers some nice shopping areas. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Faro or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Bordeaux is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Faro or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Bordeaux is great for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its romantic activities.

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.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Faro or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Faro and Bordeaux are nice places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Faro. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Bordeaux is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Faro or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Bordeaux is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Faro is not popular with students.

Bordeaux is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Faro is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Bordeaux is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Faro has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Is Faro or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Bordeaux is great for its walkability. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its high level of walkability.

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

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Faro?

How long in Faro or Bordeaux?

In either Faro or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Bordeaux has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bordeaux than Faro. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bordeaux than Faro 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 Bordeaux.

One day in Faro or Bordeaux?

The resort town of Faro offers nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bordeaux. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Faro or Bordeaux?

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

Bordeaux is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Faro or Bordeaux?

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historical destination of Bordeaux. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Faro or Bordeaux?

Faro is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.

The romantic city of Bordeaux offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Faro or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Faro 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 Faro or Bordeaux?

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 Faro or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Faro as well as Bordeaux. Many visitors come to Faro in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Faro is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the summer temperatures in Faro in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In the summer, Faro often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Faro gets 374 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets less rain in July than Bordeaux. Faro gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Faro are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Faro for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Faro is generally a little warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 20°C (68°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Faro gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Faro usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Faro gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Faro or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Faro during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Faro because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

Faro is much warmer than Bordeaux in the winter. The daily temperature in Faro averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Faro often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Faro gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Faro usually gets less rain in January than Bordeaux. Faro gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Faro and Bordeaux. The beaches are the main draw to Faro this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Faro is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the spring temperatures in Faro in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during spring. Faro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Faro usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Faro gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Faro