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

Should you visit Messina or Bordeaux?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Messina and Bordeaux 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.

Messina

Messina is a bustling, local, and historic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a romantic, historical, and elegant 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. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Messina and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Bordeaux?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bordeaux than Messina. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bordeaux is very popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Messina attracts visitors for its nightlife and beaches. Bordeaux is more touristy than Messina and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also well known for Cathédrale Saint-André. Messina is famous for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Messina different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Messina and Bordeaux have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Messina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

Bordeaux offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

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

Bordeaux is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Bordeaux have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Messina 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 Messina know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

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 Messina or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

Messina is a port city with a few options for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Messina or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

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

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is well known for shopping. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Bordeaux is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Messina or Bordeaux Better for Families?

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

Messina is a very kid-friendly port city. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

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 Messina or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Bordeaux is well known for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Messina or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Messina and Bordeaux are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Messina is a good port city to visit for backpackers. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Messina or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Bordeaux is well known for students. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Bordeaux. 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.

It's common for students to visit Messina. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

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

Bordeaux is well known for its public transit. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bordeaux. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

While Messina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

Is Messina or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Messina and Bordeaux both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Messina is very walkable. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Messina?

How long in Messina or Bordeaux?

In either Messina or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Messina because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Messina, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

Couples should spend more time in Bordeaux than Messina. 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 Messina 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 Messina or Bordeaux?

The port city of Messina offers food and shopping. 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 Bordeaux, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Messina or Bordeaux?

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

In Bordeaux, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer.

Five days in Messina or Bordeaux?

Messina is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Messina or Bordeaux?

Messina is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Messina or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Messina 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 Messina or Bordeaux?

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 Messina or Bordeaux in the Summer?

Both Bordeaux and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Messina for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Messina is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the summer temperatures in Messina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Bordeaux. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Messina. Messina usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Messina usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Messina or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

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

In October, Messina is generally a little warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 21°C (69°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Messina often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Messina. Messina usually gets more rain in October than Bordeaux. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Bordeaux in the Winter?

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

Messina is much warmer than Bordeaux in the winter. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Messina usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bordeaux receives a lot of rain in the winter. Messina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Messina usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Bordeaux in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Messina is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the spring temperatures in Messina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 12°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Messina this time of the year. In the spring, Messina often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Messina usually gets less rain in April than Bordeaux. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Messina