A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tokyo vs. Bordeaux for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tokyo or Bordeaux?

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

Should I visit Tokyo 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.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a iconic, eclectic, and cutting edge city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

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, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Bordeaux, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tokyo is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bordeaux is known for its historical sights. Bordeaux is more touristy than Tokyo and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Tokyo is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple.

How is Tokyo different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tokyo are among the most recognizable in the world. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

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 Tokyo or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Tokyo and Bordeaux.

For foodies, Tokyo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Bordeaux has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Is Tokyo or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Tokyo just to party. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

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 Tokyo or Bordeaux Better for Music?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Tokyo The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

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.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Bordeaux?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Tokyo make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

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.

Is Tokyo or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tokyo is a very family-friendly destination. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. 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 Tokyo or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

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

Tokyo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

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

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Bordeaux are good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tokyo. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

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

Is Tokyo or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

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

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Tokyo can get you around easily. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

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

Is Tokyo or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Tokyo on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

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 Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Bordeaux?

In either Tokyo or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than Bordeaux because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

Couples should spend more time in Tokyo than Bordeaux. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tokyo that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo 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 Tokyo.

One day in Tokyo or Bordeaux?

Tokyo is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

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 Tokyo or Bordeaux?

Tokyo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

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 Tokyo or Bordeaux?

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

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Bordeaux, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tokyo is in Asia and Bordeaux is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bordeaux would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bordeaux 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 Tokyo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tokyo than you might in Bordeaux.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Bordeaux?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo 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 Tokyo 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 Tokyo or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Bordeaux. The summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

In July, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. In the summer, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tokyo usually gets more rain in July than Bordeaux. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo 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.

Tokyo is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In October, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tokyo or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Tokyo during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tokyo is cooler than Bordeaux. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Tokyo gets 175 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. Tokyo usually gets less rain in January than Bordeaux. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Bordeaux. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during spring. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Tokyo