A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Bordeaux for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Bordeaux can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a natural, pristine, and remote archipelago. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a historical, elegant, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Orkney Islands and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bordeaux. Although Orkney Islands and Bordeaux are both popular with visitors, Bordeaux has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bordeaux is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Orkney Islands is known for its beaches and hiking. Bordeaux is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André. Orkney Islands is popular for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Bordeaux and Orkney Islands.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Orkney Islands. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.

Bordeaux is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Orkney Islands or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bordeaux has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Orkney Islands makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

Is Orkney Islands or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Bordeaux is very good for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands is a great destination for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Orkney Islands is considered a top beach destination. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Bordeaux Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Orkney Islands. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is great for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. 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.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Bordeaux Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Orkney Islands or Bordeaux.

Orkney Islands offers lots of family activities. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

Bordeaux is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Orkney Islands or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Both Orkney Islands and Bordeaux are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

Bordeaux is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Orkney Islands or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago to visit for backpackers. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Orkney Islands or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Bordeaux is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. 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.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Bordeaux is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its public transit.

The public transit in Bordeaux can get you to most places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Orkney Islands has a few public transit options. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Is Orkney Islands or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Bordeaux is great for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

In either Orkney Islands or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than Bordeaux because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

Couples should spend more time in Bordeaux than Orkney Islands. 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 Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

The beautiful archipelago of Orkney Islands offers museums and 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 Bordeaux, you'll find museums and nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

Orkney Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Orkney Islands has to offer. This archipelago offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Bordeaux. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands or Bordeaux?

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 Orkney Islands or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Bordeaux. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orkney Islands is generally much colder than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 12°C (54°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. In the summer, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in July than Bordeaux. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Bordeaux in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. In October, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Orkney Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Orkney Islands in the winter. In the winter, Orkney Islands is much colder than Bordeaux. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orkney Islands in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bordeaux. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Bordeaux. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Orkney Islands is generally much colder than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 6°C (43°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during spring. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Orkney Islands usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Orkney Islands