A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nafplio vs. Biarritz for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Nafplio or Biarritz?

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

Should I visit Nafplio or Biarritz? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a beautiful, picturesque, and romantic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a quirky, dynamic, and cultural seaside town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Nafplio and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Nafplio or Biarritz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nafplio. Although Nafplio and Biarritz are both popular with visitors, Nafplio has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nafplio is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is known for its resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm. Nafplio is popular for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. It is also home to Palamidi Castle. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Nafplio different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nafplio
Biarritz

Nafplio is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Nafplio offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

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 Nafplio or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nafplio
Biarritz

Both Nafplio and Biarritz offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Nafplio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Biarritz makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Nafplio or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Nafplio
Biarritz

Both Nafplio and Biarritz have high quality vibes after the sun sets.

Nafplio has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

The people in Biarritz know how to have a good time. 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 Nafplio or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Nafplio
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Nafplio is not a resort destination.

Biarritz is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Nafplio is not a resort destination.


Is Nafplio or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Nafplio
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Many people head to Nafplio to enjoy the beach. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

Is Nafplio or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Nafplio
Biarritz

Nafplio is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nafplio. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Biarritz?

Nafplio
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

Nafplio is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.


Is Nafplio or Biarritz Better for Families?

Nafplio
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nafplio. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

Is Nafplio or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Nafplio
Biarritz

With fun activities for couples, both Nafplio and Biarritz make for a high quality place to visit.

Nafplio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

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 Nafplio or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio
Biarritz

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Nafplio is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.


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

Nafplio
Biarritz

Visitors will find good public transit in both Nafplio and Biarritz.

Nafplio has some public transit options. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

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 Nafplio or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Nafplio
Biarritz

Nafplio is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Nafplio. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

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 Nafplio Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Biarritz?

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

Families should spend more time in Biarritz than Nafplio. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Biarritz than Nafplio 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.


  • How many days in Nafplio or Biarritz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nafplio 2-3 
    Biarritz 3-7

One day in Nafplio or Biarritz?

The beautiful city of Nafplio offers food and shopping. 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.

In Biarritz, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Nafplio or Biarritz?

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

In Biarritz, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Nafplio or Biarritz?

Nafplio 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.

Biarritz is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Biarritz has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Nafplio or Biarritz?

Nafplio 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. In Biarritz, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Biarritz or Nafplio?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nafplio is €112, while the average daily cost in Biarritz is €131. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nafplio and Biarritz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nafplio 50
    Biarritz 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nafplio 100
    Biarritz 148
Compare Hotels in Nafplio and Biarritz

Looking for a hotel in Nafplio or Biarritz? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nafplio


Hotels in Biarritz


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nafplio Hotel Prices and Biarritz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nafplio 46
    Biarritz 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nafplio

Also for Nafplio, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Athens: Bus Transfer to/from Nafplio: $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

Also for Biarritz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • San Sebastian: Optimized transfer to Biarritz & surroundings: $262
  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $229
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $167
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $167
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $71
  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $70
  • Biarritz : Optimized transfer to/from Bordeaux: $749
  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Nafplio or Biarritz?

Prices for flights to both Biarritz and Nafplio change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nafplio 34
    Biarritz 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Biarritz Food Tour Gastronomique- Taste 10 Basque specialties: $76
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $97
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $240

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nafplio 22
    Biarritz 16

Tours and Activities in Nafplio

For Nafplio, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Argolis: Full-Day Private Peloponnese Tour from Athens: $427
  • Athens: Corinth, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Nafplio Day Tour: $524
  • From Athens: Peloponnese Full Day Private Tour & Audio Tour: $503
  • From Hydra Island Private-Tour to Nafplio, Epidaurus&Mycenae: $385
  • From Nafplion: Mycenae, Corinth Canal and Epidavros Day Tour: $182
  • Mycenae Epidavrous Nafplio Isthmus Canal Full Day Tour 8 H: $199
  • Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus Private Full Day Tour with Sedan: $91
  • Nafplio Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: $11
  • City Walking Tour: $86
  • Highlights Walking Tour: $59
  • Peloponnese Tour 2-Day Itinerary: $1,444
  • Peloponnese: Mycenae Nafplio Epidaurus Private Tour & Audio: $503

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Bayonne Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $279
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Biarritz, Bayonne, and Basque Country: Private Driving Tour: $957
  • 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: $187
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • French Basque Country Coastline tour in a 70'sVW Van: $457
  • French Basque Country Private Day Tour in an 70's VW Combi: $599

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nafplio 6.86
    Biarritz 8.05

Sample the Local Flavors in Nafplio

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nafplio:

  • Nafplion: Nemea Vineyards Wine Tour: $171
  • "Wine tasting Tour in Nemea and Visit tour in Nafplio": $295


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nafplio and Biarritz, we can see that Biarritz is more expensive. And not only is Nafplio much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nafplio would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nafplio 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 Biarritz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Biarritz than you might in Nafplio.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nafplio Expensive? and Is Biarritz Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Biarritz?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio 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 Nafplio 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 Nafplio or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

In July, Nafplio is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 25°C (76°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Biarritz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nafplio usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nafplio 25°C (76°F) 
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Nafplio during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Nafplio is a little warmer than Biarritz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Nafplio. In the autumn, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Nafplio gets 202 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 Nafplio. Nafplio usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nafplio 19°C (66°F) 
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Biarritz. Many travelers come to Nafplio for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Nafplio is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nafplio in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Biarritz averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nafplio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nafplio usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nafplio 10°C (51°F) 
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Biarritz. Many visitors come to Nafplio in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

In April, Nafplio is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 15°C (58°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nafplio this time of the year. In the spring, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Nafplio usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nafplio 15°C (58°F) 
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Nafplio

Nafplio Biarritz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 102 mm (4 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 154 mm (6.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)


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