A Travel Price Comparison for France Nice vs. Biarritz for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Nice or Biarritz?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nice and Biarritz 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.

Nice

Nice is a beautiful, opulent, and trendy seaside destination. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

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.

Nice and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Biarritz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nice than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nice is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Biarritz is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Nice is more touristy than Biarritz and is popular for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Also, Nice is famous for The Promenade des Anglais. Biarritz is well known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Nice different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Biarritz is a moderate seaside town for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

For foodies, Nice is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

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 Nice or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Nice is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Nice is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Nice is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Nice is a great choice. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

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

Is Nice or Biarritz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Nice has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Both Nice and Biarritz are considered to be excellent beach destinations.

The beaches at Nice attract visitors from all over. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Many people visit Biarritz for it's beautiful beaches. 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 Nice or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Nice 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 Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Biarritz?

Both Nice and Biarritz are excellent shopping destinations.

Nice is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

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 Nice or Biarritz Better for Families?

Biarritz is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Biarritz is a very kid-friendly seaside town. 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.

Nice is a family-friendly seaside destination. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Nice or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Nice is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Nice makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

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 Nice or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

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

Nice is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Nice can get you to some places easily. There are both buses and trams.

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 Nice or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Nice 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 Nice. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Nice?

How long in Nice or Biarritz?

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

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

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

One day in Nice or Biarritz?

The beautiful seaside destination of Nice offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Nice or Biarritz?

Nice is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. 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 Nice or Biarritz?

Nice is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nice, 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 dynamic 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 Nice or Biarritz?

Nice 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 seaside destination offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the dynamic 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 in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, and The Best River Cruises in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Nice or Biarritz?

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

Both Biarritz and Nice during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nice for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Biarritz in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Nice is a little warmer than Biarritz in the summer. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Nice usually gets less rain in July than Biarritz. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Biarritz. Many visitors come to Nice in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Nice is around the same temperature as Biarritz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nice in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Biarritz averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nice gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nice usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nice or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nice as well as Biarritz. Most visitors come to Nice for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Nice is generally around the same temperature as Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 9°C (48°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Nice usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Nice because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

Nice is around the same temperature as Biarritz in the spring. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In April, Nice usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Nice