A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tartu vs. Bordeaux for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Tartu or Bordeaux?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tartu and Bordeaux 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.

Tartu

Tartu is a lively, intellectual, and student-oriented university town. Tartu is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a historical, elegant, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Bordeaux attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Bordeaux travel costs.

Tartu and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Tartu or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Tartu, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bordeaux is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Tartu is known for its nightlife and historical sights. Bordeaux is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André. Tartu is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Tartu different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tartu
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Tartu or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Bordeaux have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Tartu is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Tartu know how to have a good time. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Tartu or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Tartu is a great destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Tartu. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

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 Tartu or Bordeaux?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. 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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Bordeaux More Beautiful?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a great city for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its scenery and beauty.

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

Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.

Is Tartu or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Both Tartu and Bordeaux are good to visit with kids.

Tartu offers lots of family activities. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Bordeaux is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Tartu or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a great city for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Bordeaux is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Tartu or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Tartu is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tartu is a great university town to visit for backpackers. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Tartu or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Tartu is a world-class destination for students. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Tartu. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. 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.


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

Tartu
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bordeaux. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Tartu or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Tartu
Bordeaux

Tartu and Bordeaux are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Tartu is a very walkable destination. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Bordeaux?

In either Tartu or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Tartu because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Tartu, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

Families should spend more time in Bordeaux than Tartu. 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 Tartu. 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 Tartu than Bordeaux 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 Tartu.


  • How many days in Tartu or Bordeaux? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Bordeaux 2-5

One day in Tartu or Bordeaux?

The university town of Tartu offers nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 historical 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 Tartu or Bordeaux?

Tartu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this university town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tartu, 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 Tartu or Bordeaux?

Tartu 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 Tartu or Bordeaux?

Tartu is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This university town offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the elegant 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Bordeaux or Tartu?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tartu is €132, while the average daily cost in Bordeaux is €156. 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 Tartu and Bordeaux in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Bordeaux 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Bordeaux 126
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Bordeaux

Looking for a hotel in Tartu or Bordeaux? 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 Tartu


Hotels in Bordeaux


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: Tartu Hotel Prices and Bordeaux Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Bordeaux 15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Van Business: $254
  • Airport to Bordeaux Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $224
  • Private transfer Bordeaux airport to City Centre: $118
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Luxury Van: $117
  • Departure Transfer: Bordeaux to Airport BOD by Luxury Van: $117
  • Airport Transfer: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Luxury Van: $117
  • Airport Transfer: Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Business Car: $111
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Business Car: $111
  • Bordeaux : Private transfer to/from Mérignac Airport: $100
  • Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux City by Sedan: $76
  • Private One way Transfer from Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport: $58

Is it cheaper to fly into Tartu or Bordeaux?

Prices for flights to both Bordeaux and Tartu 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
    Tartu 65
    Bordeaux 79
Typical Food Prices in Tartu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tartu:


  • Danishes
    0.76
  • Lunch for Two
    4.93
  • Ice Cream
    1.27
  • Cookies
    0.51
  • Coffee & Cake
    3.47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bordeaux.

  • Bordeaux food tour: sweet specialities & highlights: $28
  • Best of French Chocolate and Pastries Food Tour: $64
  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $74
  • NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $75
  • Bordeaux Afternoon Food Tour : Sweets, Wine and Cheese: $76
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $80
  • Bordeaux : Best Food tour with a local guide: $95
  • Bordeaux Food Tour – A Full French Meal by Do Eat Better: $100
  • The Ultimate Bordeaux Food Tour: Full Meal & Fine Wines: $101
  • Organic : Bordeaux Food Tour: $115
  • Bordeaux Organic Food Tour - French Apéro Style: $117
  • Authentic French dinner at a local's in Bordeaux: $117

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tartu 16
    Bordeaux 22
Typical Entertainment Prices in Tartu

For Tartu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Art Museum ticket
    0.95
  • Movie Ticket
    3.47

Tours and Activities in Tartu

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

  • Around Viljandi bike tour: $29
  • TARTU COUNTRY: SLED DOG TOUR AND KENNEL VISIT: $141
  • Private Horse-Drawn Sleigh Adventures: $212
  • Charming Viljandi Private Walking Tour for Couples: $257
  • Magical Tartu Romantic Private Walking Tour: $751
  • Dazzling Tartu City Cultural Private Walking Tour: $751

Tours and Activities in Bordeaux

Here are a few actual costs in Bordeaux for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • "Bordeaux by bicycle: a 3-hour tour immersive experience": $42
  • 2 hours - Bordeaux Private tour with a native guide: $177
  • 2-Hour Bordeaux Segway Tour: $65
  • 2h Walking tour of the "Ugly" Bordeaux: $57
  • Best : Bordeaux walking tour in Eng + Glass of Wine (Tip based): $3.54
  • Blind Tasting: 4 Bordeaux Natural Wine + Cheese experience: $34
  • Blind Wine & Gastronomy Experience in Bordeaux: $115
  • Blind Wine Experience: 5 Natural Wines, Cheese & Charcuterie: $41
  • Blind Wine and Gastronomy Experience in Bordeaux: $117
  • Bordeaux 1h30 City Walking Tour: Discover Historic Landmarks: $60
  • Bordeaux : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $29
  • Bordeaux Awakens: Private Sunrise Serenity Morning Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tartu 16
    Bordeaux 26

Sample the Local Flavors in Bordeaux

Also in Bordeaux, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine and Trade Museum Entry Ticket & Wine Tasting: $14
  • Distillery Guided Tour with Tasting: $17
  • Château Olivier: One Hour Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting: $23
  • Cité du Vin Entry Ticket and Wine Tasting: $27
  • Unusual wine tasting in DARWIN (Bordeaux)!: $33
  • Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $34
  • Visit an urban winery & wine tasting in Bordeaux: $35
  • Local Wine Tasting with Wine Store Owner: $41
  • Bordeaux Wine Tasting Workshop with Food & Wine Pairings: $41
  • Workshop Bordeaux wine tasting: 4 reds & charcuterie pairing: $45
  • Guided Bordeaux Wine Tasting Class with 6 Wines and pairings: $52
  • Half-Day Private Natural Wine Tour & Tasting: $52


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Bordeaux?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tartu or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Bordeaux. Many travelers come to Tartu for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tartu is generally cooler than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 17°C (62°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tartu this time of the year. In the summer, Tartu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bordeaux. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets more rain in July than Bordeaux. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tartu 17°C (62°F) 
    Bordeaux 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tartu in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tartu is much colder than Bordeaux in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 6°C (43°F) in October, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tartu usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tartu 6°C (43°F) 
    Bordeaux 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Tartu during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Tartu can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Tartu is much colder than Bordeaux. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tartu in January average around -7°C (19°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tartu usually gets less rain in January than Bordeaux. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tartu -7°C (19°F) 
    Bordeaux 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Bordeaux. The spring months attract visitors to Tartu because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

The weather in Tartu can be very cold. In April, Tartu is generally much colder than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 5°C (41°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Tartu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bordeaux during spring. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tartu usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tartu 5°C (41°F) 
    Bordeaux 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Tartu

Tartu Bordeaux
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Feb -6°C (20°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 26 mm (1 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 6°C (43°F) 52 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Dec -4°C (25°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)