A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palma de Mallorca vs. Biarritz for Nightlife, Beaches, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a stunning, cultural, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a quirky, dynamic, and cultural seaside town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Palma de Mallorca and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palma de Mallorca. Although Palma de Mallorca and Biarritz are popular destinations, Palma de Mallorca has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palma de Mallorca is very popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, and small town charm. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Biarritz and is known for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. It is also well known for the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Biarritz is famous for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

Biarritz is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Biarritz specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Biarritz offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palma de Mallorca. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Biarritz. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

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

Palma de Mallorca is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is an excellent place to visit for its live music scene. However, Biarritz is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Palma de Mallorca has diverse options. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Biarritz is not a live music destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, very good resorts can be found in both Palma de Mallorca and Biarritz.

Palma de Mallorca is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

In Biarritz, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Palma de Mallorca has a few good snorkeling spots. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is renowned for the beache. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Palma de Mallorca. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Biarritz is a very popular place to visit for its 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 Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Palma de Mallorca is a popular place for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Palma de Mallorca. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice shopping areas. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca and Biarritz are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Biarritz is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca and Biarritz are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Palma de Mallorca is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

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

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Palma de Mallorca and Biarritz.

Palma de Mallorca has some public transit options. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Biarritz is very walkable. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Palma de Mallorca?

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

The beautiful island of Palma de Mallorca offers shopping and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Biarritz, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

Palma de Mallorca 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.

With food and shopping around the relaxing seaside town of Biarritz, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

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

With shopping and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Biarritz, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this seaside town makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

Palma de Mallorca is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Biarritz is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz?

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

Both Biarritz and Palma de Mallorca are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Palma de Mallorca is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in July average around 24°C (76°F), and Biarritz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Biarritz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palma de Mallorca. Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Palma de Mallorca gets 334 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Palma de Mallorca gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Palma de Mallorca during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Palma de Mallorca is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 19°C (66°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Palma de Mallorca. In the autumn, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Palma de Mallorca gets 204 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. Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Palma de Mallorca gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palma de Mallorca and Biarritz. The winter months attract visitors to Palma de Mallorca because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

Palma de Mallorca is a little warmer than Biarritz in the winter. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Palma de Mallorca gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Palma de Mallorca gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palma de Mallorca as well as Biarritz. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Palma de Mallorca is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Biarritz averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palma de Mallorca this time of the year. In the spring, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Palma de Mallorca gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Palma de Mallorca gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Palma de Mallorca