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

Should you visit Tenerife or Biarritz?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tenerife or Biarritz, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a scenic, vibrant, and adventure-filled island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a quirky, dynamic, and cultural seaside town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Tenerife and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tenerife or Biarritz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tenerife. Although Tenerife and Biarritz are popular destinations, Tenerife has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tenerife is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz attracts visitors for its museums, food, and small town charm. Tenerife is more touristy than Biarritz and is known for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. It is also well known for Mount Teide. Biarritz is famous for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Tenerife different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Biarritz is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Biarritz specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Biarritz. 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Tenerife or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

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

Tenerife is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

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 Tenerife or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, very good resorts can be found in both Tenerife and Biarritz.

Tenerife is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

In Biarritz, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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 Tenerife or Biarritz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Tenerife. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tenerife or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Both Tenerife and Biarritz have very good beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tenerife. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

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.

Is Tenerife or Biarritz Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

People visit Tenerife specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tenerife or Biarritz?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Tenerife and Biarritz.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Tenerife. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

Biarritz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Tenerife or Biarritz Better for Families?

Tenerife 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, Tenerife is a very family-friendly destination. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

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 Tenerife or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Tenerife and Biarritz are both very good to visit as a couple.

Tenerife makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

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 Tenerife or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Biarritz is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Tenerife is a good island to visit for backpackers. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Tenerife and Biarritz.

Tenerife has some public transit options. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

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 Tenerife or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Biarritz is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

For even more information, also check out Is Tenerife Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Tenerife?

How long in Tenerife or Biarritz?

Both Tenerife and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Biarritz than Tenerife 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 Tenerife or Biarritz?

The beautiful island of Tenerife offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Tenerife or Biarritz?

Tenerife 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.

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 Tenerife or Biarritz?

Tenerife is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tenerife, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Tenerife or Biarritz?

Tenerife is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tenerife has to offer. This island 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

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

When is the best time to visit Tenerife 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 Tenerife or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Tenerife are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tenerife in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Tenerife is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tenerife in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Biarritz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Biarritz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tenerife. Tenerife usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Tenerife gets 268 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Tenerife gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tenerife or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Tenerife during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tenerife for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Tenerife is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Tenerife average around 22°C (72°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Tenerife. In the autumn, Tenerife often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Tenerife gets 200 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. Tenerife usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Tenerife gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tenerife and Biarritz. The winter months attract visitors to Tenerife because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

Tenerife is much warmer than Biarritz in the winter. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Tenerife usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Tenerife gets 191 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, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Tenerife gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tenerife or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tenerife as well as Biarritz. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Tenerife is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tenerife in April average around 18°C (64°F), and Biarritz averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tenerife this time of the year. In the spring, Tenerife often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Tenerife gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Tenerife usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Tenerife gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Tenerife