A Travel Price Comparison for France Lyon vs. Biarritz for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Lyon or Biarritz?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Biarritz, 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.

Lyon

Lyon is a cultural, quaint, and authentic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a relaxing, quirky, and dynamic seaside town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Lyon and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Biarritz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lyon than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lyon is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Biarritz is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Biarritz is well known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Lyon different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Lyon are world-renowned. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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

Lyon is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Lyon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

Dining out in Biarritz is an experience not to be missed. 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 Lyon or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Both Lyon and Biarritz are very good when it comes to partying.

Lyon offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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.

Is Lyon or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Lyon is not a resort destination.

Biarritz is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Lyon is not a resort destination.

Is Lyon or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is a well-known place for the beache. However, Lyon is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Biarritz. 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.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Lyon or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Lyon is one of the most recognized in the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Biarritz?

Both Lyon and Biarritz are very good shopping destinations.

Lyon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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 Lyon or Biarritz Better for Families?

Lyon and Biarritz are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Biarritz. 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 Lyon or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Lyon and Biarritz are both very good to visit as a couple.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Biarritz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Lyon or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lyon and Biarritz are very good destinations for backpackers.

Lyon is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Is Lyon or Biarritz Better for Students?

Lyon is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Lyon has a great public transit system. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Lyon and Biarritz both are very good when exploring on foot.

Lyon is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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 Lyon Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Biarritz?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon 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 Lyon.

One day in Lyon or Biarritz?

Lyon is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Biarritz. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Lyon or Biarritz?

Lyon 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 Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Biarritz is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Lyon or Biarritz?

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Biarritz. This seaside town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Lyon or Biarritz?

Lyon 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quirky seaside town of Biarritz. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Biarritz?

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

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 Lyon or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Lyon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lyon in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Lyon is around the same temperature as Biarritz in the summer. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Biarritz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lyon. In the summer, Lyon often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets less rain in July than Biarritz. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Biarritz. Most visitors come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Lyon is cooler than Biarritz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lyon in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Biarritz averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during autumn. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Lyon usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lyon or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Biarritz. The winter months attract visitors to Lyon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

The weather in Lyon can be very cold. In January, Lyon is generally much colder than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 4°C (39°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Lyon usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lyon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm.

Lyon is around the same temperature as Biarritz in the spring. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Lyon usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during spring. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In April, Lyon usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Lyon