A Travel Price Comparison for France Paris vs. Biarritz for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Paris or Biarritz?

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

Should I visit Paris 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.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a cultural, relaxing, and quirky seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Paris and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Biarritz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris. Although Paris and Biarritz are popular destinations, Paris has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paris is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Paris is more touristy than Biarritz and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Biarritz is famous for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paris is renowned for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Paris are world-renowned. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Paris or Biarritz Better for Theater?

Paris is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Biarritz is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Biarritz is not a theatre destination.

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

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

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

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

Paris is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris or Biarritz Better for Music?

Paris is renowned for its live music scene. However, Biarritz is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Paris. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Biarritz is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is great for its luxury resorts. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a resort destination.

Is Paris or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is great for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Biarritz?

Paris is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Paris draws large crowds to its stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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 Paris or Biarritz Better for Christmas?

Paris is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Biarritz does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Paris draws large crowds. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Biarritz does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Biarritz Better for Families?

Paris is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Biarritz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Paris or Biarritz Better for Couples?

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

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Paris is extremely popular for backpackers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Biarritz is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Is Paris or Biarritz Better for Students?

Paris is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Paris is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Paris has a great public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Paris and Biarritz are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Biarritz is a very walkable city. 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 Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Paris?

How long in Paris or Biarritz?

Both Paris and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Paris has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paris than Biarritz. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Paris or Biarritz?

Paris is a big city with plenty to do. 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, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quirky destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paris or Biarritz?

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paris or Biarritz?

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

Biarritz is a fun place to experience. In Biarritz, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Paris or Biarritz?

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this cultural destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Paris or Biarritz?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris or Biarritz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Biarritz. The summer months attract visitors to Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, 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 the summer, Paris is around the same temperature as Biarritz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paris in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Biarritz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Biarritz this time of the year. In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paris usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paris usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paris or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paris as well as Biarritz. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Paris is generally cooler than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 13°C (56°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Paris often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Paris usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Biarritz in the Winter?

Both Biarritz and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. Paris is much colder than Biarritz in the winter. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In January, Paris usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paris or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Paris during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Paris is around the same temperature as Biarritz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paris in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Biarritz averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Paris often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Paris usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Paris