A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Biarritz for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Biarritz can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a historic, quaint, and idyllic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Visitors also love the food and theater.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a quirky, dynamic, and cultural seaside town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Biarritz than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Biarritz is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Biarritz is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. Also, Biarritz is famous for Grande Plage. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Biarritz.

While most people don't head to Stratford-upon-Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Biarritz is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Stratford-upon-Avon draw crowds from around the world. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Biarritz is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Biarritz is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Biarritz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Biarritz has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a resort destination.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a resort destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is a very popular place for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

Biarritz is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Biarritz is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz Better for Families?

Biarritz is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Biarritz is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Biarritz is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Biarritz is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Biarritz has some public transit options. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Biarritz is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

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

Couples should spend more time in Biarritz than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Biarritz than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Biarritz.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stratford-upon-Avon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Biarritz for a weekend. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. 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.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Biarritz, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that theater is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this dynamic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This seaside town offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Biarritz has to offer.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Biarritz, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Biarritz Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Biarritz in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Biarritz. Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Biarritz during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Stratford-upon-Avon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Biarritz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Biarritz averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 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. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Biarritz. The museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally much colder than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 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, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Biarritz. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm. Additionally, many visitors come to Biarritz in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Biarritz in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Biarritz. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 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 Stratford-upon-Avon