A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Biarritz for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a dramatic, scenic, and picturesque island. 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. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Isle of Skye and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Biarritz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Biarritz. Although Isle of Skye and Biarritz are popular destinations, Biarritz has more sights and attractions for tourists. Biarritz is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is famous for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Biarritz is famous for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. It is also well known for Grande Plage.

How is Isle of Skye different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Biarritz?

Biarritz is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Biarritz specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Isle of Skye and Biarritz.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Biarritz. 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 Isle of Skye or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Biarritz to choose from. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Isle of Skye is not a resort destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye and Biarritz both offer superb beaches.

Many people visit Isle of Skye for it's beautiful beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

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 Isle of Skye or Biarritz Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

People visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Biarritz?

Biarritz is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Biarritz Better for Families?

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

Biarritz is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Isle of Skye or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye and Biarritz both superb destinations for a couple.

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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 Isle of Skye or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye and Biarritz are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Isle of Skye is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

Biarritz is a great island to visit for backpackers. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

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

Biarritz is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Biarritz is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

Biarritz is very walkable. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Biarritz?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Biarritz than Isle of Skye 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.

One day in Isle of Skye or Biarritz?

The beautiful island of Isle of Skye offers food. 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.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing seaside town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Biarritz?

Isle of Skye is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isle of Skye, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Biarritz is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Biarritz?

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this cultural destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Isle of Skye or Biarritz?

Isle of Skye 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 island offers something for everyone.

Biarritz is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Biarritz?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Biarritz in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Isle of Skye is much colder than Biarritz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Biarritz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Biarritz. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of rain as Biarritz. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Isle of Skye during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails 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 October, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Isle of Skye gets 82 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Isle of Skye. Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Biarritz in the Winter?

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

Isle of Skye can get quite cold in the winter. Isle of Skye is much colder than Biarritz in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Biarritz in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Isle of Skye is much colder than Biarritz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Biarritz averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Isle of Skye