A Travel Price Comparison for France Toulon vs. Bordeaux for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Toulon or Bordeaux?

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 Toulon and Bordeaux can help you decide which place is right for you.

Toulon

Toulon is a real world, industrial, and authentic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a elegant, charming, and romantic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Toulon and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulon or Bordeaux?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bordeaux. Although Toulon and Bordeaux are about the same size, Bordeaux has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bordeaux is very popular for its food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Toulon attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Bordeaux is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also well known for Cathédrale Saint-André. Toulon is famous for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Toulon different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Toulon and Bordeaux have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Toulon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

Bordeaux offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Toulon or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Toulon or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Both Toulon and Bordeaux are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bordeaux. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Toulon or Bordeaux Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a port city with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bordeaux is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Toulon has a few snorkeling spots. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Bordeaux is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Toulon or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

Toulon is a popular place for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Toulon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Toulon or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux is very good for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

Many visitors go to Bordeaux to see the historical old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in Toulon or Bordeaux?

Both Toulon and Bordeaux are great shopping destinations.

Toulon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

Bordeaux is well-known for its shopping. 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 Toulon or Bordeaux Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Toulon or Bordeaux.

Toulon is a family-friendly place to visit. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Bordeaux is a family-friendly port city. 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 Toulon or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Bordeaux is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Toulon or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Toulon and Bordeaux are nice destinations for backpackers.

Toulon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Toulon or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Bordeaux is a well-known place for students. However, Toulon is not popular with students.

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.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Bordeaux is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bordeaux is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Toulon or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Toulon and Bordeaux both are great when exploring on foot.

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Toulon?

How long in Toulon or Bordeaux?

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

Couples should spend more time in Bordeaux than Toulon. 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 Bordeaux than Toulon 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 Bordeaux.

One day in Toulon or Bordeaux?

The port city of Toulon offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bordeaux. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Toulon or Bordeaux?

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

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Toulon or Bordeaux?

Toulon 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Toulon or Bordeaux?

Toulon is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the elegant destination of Bordeaux. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to France, The Best Budget Tours to France, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Toulon or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 0% larger than the population of Toulon. When comparing the sizes of Toulon 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 Toulon or Bordeaux?

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 Toulon or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulon and Bordeaux. Most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Toulon is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the summer temperatures in Toulon in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Toulon gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Toulon usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Toulon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Toulon or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Toulon as well as Bordeaux. The autumn months attract visitors to Toulon because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

In October, Toulon is generally a little warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 16°C (61°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In the autumn, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Toulon gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bordeaux. Toulon gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulon or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Toulon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Toulon is around the same temperature as Bordeaux in the winter. The daily temperature in Toulon averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Toulon gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. In January, Toulon usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Toulon gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Toulon or Bordeaux in the Spring?

Both Bordeaux and Toulon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Toulon is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the spring temperatures in Toulon in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. In the spring, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Toulon gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets less rain in April than Bordeaux. Toulon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Toulon