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

Should you visit Taormina or Biarritz?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Taormina and Biarritz can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Taormina

Taormina is a opulent, historic, and beautiful town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a cultural, relaxing, and quirky seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Taormina and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Taormina or Biarritz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Biarritz. Although Taormina and Biarritz are both popular with visitors, Biarritz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Biarritz is more popular for its beaches and shopping, while Taormina is known for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Taormina is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. It is also home to Grande Plage.

How is Taormina different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Taormina
Biarritz

Taormina is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Taormina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

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

Taormina
Biarritz

Both Taormina and Biarritz offer excellent local cuisine and restaurants.

Taormina has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Biarritz makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Taormina or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Taormina
Biarritz

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Taormina and Biarritz.

The nightlife in Taormina has something for everybody. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

Biarritz offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Taormina or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Taormina
Biarritz

If luxury resorts are your style, both Taormina and Biarritz have excellent options.

In Taormina, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

There are plenty of resorts in Biarritz to choose from. 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 Taormina or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Taormina
Biarritz

Biarritz is a great seaside town for the beach. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

The beaches at Biarritz attract visitors from all over. 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.

Taormina offers a nice beach destination. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Biarritz?

Taormina
Biarritz

Biarritz is a great seaside town for its shopping areas. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Taormina is a great destination for shopping. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Is Taormina or Biarritz Better for Families?

Taormina
Biarritz

Biarritz is a great seaside town for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Biarritz. 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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.


Is Taormina or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Taormina
Biarritz

Both Taormina and Biarritz are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Taormina is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

Biarritz is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Taormina or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taormina
Biarritz

Biarritz is a great seaside town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

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

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.

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

Taormina
Biarritz

Taormina and Biarritz both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Taormina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

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


Is Taormina or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Taormina
Biarritz

Taormina and Biarritz are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Taormina is a very walkable destination. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

Biarritz is very walkable. 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 Taormina Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Taormina?

How long in Taormina or Biarritz?

Both Taormina 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 Taormina. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Taormina, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

Families should spend more time in Biarritz than Taormina. 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 Taormina. 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 Taormina 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.


  • How many days in Taormina or Biarritz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taormina 2-4 
    Biarritz 3-7

One day in Taormina or Biarritz?

Taormina is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

The seaside town of Biarritz offers nightlife and food. 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.

A weekend in Taormina or Biarritz?

Taormina 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Taormina, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Biarritz 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.


Five days in Taormina or Biarritz?

Taormina 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.

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

A week in Taormina or Biarritz?

Taormina is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Biarritz is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Biarritz has to offer. This seaside town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Biarritz or Taormina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Taormina is €108, while the average daily cost in Biarritz is €131. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Taormina and Biarritz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taormina 70
    Biarritz 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taormina 140
    Biarritz 148
Compare Hotels in Taormina and Biarritz

Looking for a hotel in Taormina or Biarritz? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Taormina


Hotels in Biarritz


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Taormina Hotel Prices and Biarritz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taormina 4.29
    Biarritz 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

Also for Taormina, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41
  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

Also for Biarritz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Biarritz : Optimized transfer to/from Bordeaux: $749
  • San Sebastian: Optimized transfer to Biarritz & surroundings: $262
  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $229
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $167
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $167
  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $85
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $71
  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $70

Is it cheaper to fly into Taormina or Biarritz?

Prices for flights to both Biarritz and Taormina change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Taormina 33
    Biarritz 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Biarritz Food Tour Gastronomique- Taste 10 Basque specialties: $76
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $97
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $240

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Taormina 11
    Biarritz 16

Tours and Activities in Taormina

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Taormina.

  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Lovers Tour: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Small Group Tour of Sicily Highlights: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Bayonne Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $279
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Biarritz, Bayonne, and Basque Country: Private Driving Tour: $957
  • 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: $187
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • French Basque Country Coastline tour in a 70'sVW Van: $457
  • French Basque Country Private Day Tour in an 70's VW Combi: $599

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Taormina 8.57
    Biarritz 8.05

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Taormina:

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299


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

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


Which is Bigger, Taormina or Biarritz?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Taormina 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Biarritz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Biarritz. Many travelers come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Biarritz in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 27°C (80°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Biarritz this time of the year. In Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Taormina usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Taormina 27°C (80°F) 
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Biarritz. Many visitors come to Taormina in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

Taormina is a little warmer than Biarritz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Taormina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Taormina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Taormina usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Taormina 21°C (69°F) 
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Biarritz in the Winter?

Both Biarritz and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Taormina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Taormina is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Taormina in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Biarritz averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Taormina gets 115 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, Taormina usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Taormina 13°C (55°F) 
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Taormina during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Taormina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

In April, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 16°C (60°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Taormina. In the spring, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Taormina gets 207 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. Taormina usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Taormina 16°C (60°F) 
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Taormina

Taormina Biarritz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)


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