A Travel Price Comparison for France Rouen vs. Bordeaux for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Rouen or Bordeaux?

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

Should I visit Rouen or Bordeaux? 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.

Rouen

Rouen is a charming, compact, and impressive city. The beauty of Rouen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Rouen travel costs.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a elegant, charming, and romantic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Bordeaux is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Bordeaux travel costs.

Rouen and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rouen or Bordeaux?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bordeaux than Rouen. Bordeaux is bigger than Rouen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bordeaux is more touristy than Rouen and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Rouen is well known for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Rouen different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rouen or Bordeaux?

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Rouen and Bordeaux.

Rouen offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. 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 Rouen or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Bordeaux is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Rouen or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Rouen and Bordeaux.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bordeaux. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Rouen or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the notable old towns in both Rouen and Bordeaux.

Many people head to Rouen to see the old town. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Rouen or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Bordeaux is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Rouen or Bordeaux More Beautiful?

Rouen and Bordeaux are somewhat similar when it comes to the high quality scenery.

The beauty of Rouen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's a strikingly beautiful city with Gothic cathedrals, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses.

With stunning beauty, Bordeaux attracts visitors from all around. The city is filled with beautiful architecture, parks, and gardens.

Is Rouen or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Rouen or Bordeaux.

Rouen is a family-friendly place to visit. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Bordeaux is a family-friendly city. 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 Rouen or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

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

Rouen is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Bordeaux makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Rouen or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux is a popular place for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

Is Rouen or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Bordeaux is notable for students. However, Rouen is not popular with students.

Bordeaux is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Rouen is not popular with students.

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

Both Rouen and Bordeaux offer high quality public transit options.

Rouen has some very good public transit options. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

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

Is Rouen or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Rouen and Bordeaux both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Rouen is a very walkable city. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Rouen?

How long in Rouen or Bordeaux?

In either Rouen or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Rouen because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Rouen, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

Families should spend more time in Bordeaux than Rouen. 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 Rouen. 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 Rouen 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 Rouen or Bordeaux?

The beautiful city of Rouen offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this elegant destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city 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 Rouen or Bordeaux?

Rouen 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rouen, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Rouen or Bordeaux?

Rouen 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.

Bordeaux is a fun place to experience. In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Rouen or Bordeaux?

Rouen is a great place to explore. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Bordeaux. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rouen or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Rouen and Bordeaux, 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 Rouen or Bordeaux?

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 Rouen or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Rouen and Bordeaux. The summer months attract visitors to Rouen because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

Rouen is cooler than Bordeaux in the summer. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In Rouen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Rouen usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Rouen gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rouen usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Rouen gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rouen or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Rouen is cooler than Bordeaux. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rouen in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Rouen often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Rouen gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets less rain in October than Bordeaux. Rouen gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rouen or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Rouen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rouen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Rouen. In January, Rouen is generally much colder than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Rouen average around 4°C (39°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Rouen usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Rouen gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. In January, Rouen usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Rouen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rouen or Bordeaux in the Spring?

Both Bordeaux and Rouen during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rouen in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Rouen is cooler than Bordeaux in the spring. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Rouen often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Rouen gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets less rain in April than Bordeaux. Rouen gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Rouen