A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Interlaken vs. Bordeaux for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Interlaken 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 Interlaken and Bordeaux can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a adrenaline-filled, breathtaking, and world-class town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming, romantic, and historical 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bordeaux. Although Interlaken and Bordeaux are popular destinations, Bordeaux has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bordeaux is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is famous for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Bordeaux is famous for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also well known for Cathédrale Saint-André.

How is Interlaken different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Bordeaux Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Bordeaux is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Bordeaux is not a skiing destination.

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

Bordeaux is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bordeaux is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Is Interlaken or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Bordeaux is very good for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bordeaux. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

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

Bordeaux is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Bordeaux Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

People visit Interlaken specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Bordeaux Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Interlaken is a very family-friendly destination. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Interlaken makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Bordeaux is a great town 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.

Is Interlaken or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken and Bordeaux are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Interlaken is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Interlaken or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Bordeaux is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with 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.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find great public transit in both Interlaken and Bordeaux.

Public transit in Interlaken is fairly effecient and thorough. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Bordeaux has some very good public transit options. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Is Interlaken or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Bordeaux is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Bordeaux?

In either Interlaken 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 Interlaken. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bordeaux than Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Bordeaux?

The beautiful town of Interlaken offers food and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the romantic city of Bordeaux, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Interlaken or Bordeaux?

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

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bordeaux, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Interlaken or Bordeaux?

Interlaken is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Interlaken, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bordeaux, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Interlaken or Bordeaux?

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Bordeaux is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, 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 Interlaken and Bordeaux, we can see that Interlaken is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken 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 Interlaken Expensive? and Is Bordeaux Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Bordeaux in the Summer?

Both Bordeaux and Interlaken during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Bordeaux. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In Bordeaux, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Interlaken. In the summer, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Bordeaux. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Bordeaux. The autumn months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

In October, Interlaken is generally around the same temperature as Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Interlaken or Bordeaux in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Bordeaux. The skiing and the cuisine are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Interlaken in the winter. Interlaken is much colder than Bordeaux in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bordeaux. Interlaken usually gets less rain in January than Bordeaux. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Bordeaux in the Spring?

Both Bordeaux and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Bordeaux. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Interlaken