A Travel Price Comparison for France Toulouse vs. Biarritz for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a friendly, relaxed, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, 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.

Toulouse and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulouse or Biarritz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toulouse. Although Toulouse and Biarritz are both popular with visitors, Toulouse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Toulouse is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is known for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Biarritz is more touristy than Toulouse and is known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also home to Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Toulouse different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Toulouse is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Toulouse offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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 Toulouse or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Toulouse is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Toulouse is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

Dining out in Biarritz is an experience not to be missed. 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 Toulouse or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is excellent in both Toulouse and Biarritz.

Many people head to Toulouse for the nightlife scene. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Biarritz has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Toulouse or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is great for its luxury resorts. However, Toulouse is not a resort destination.

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.

Toulouse is not a resort destination.

Is Toulouse or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is great for the beach. However, Toulouse is not a beach destination.

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.

Toulouse is not a beach destination.

Is Toulouse or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Toulouse is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Toulouse or Biarritz?

If you're looking to go shopping, Toulouse and Biarritz both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Biarritz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Toulouse or Biarritz Better for Families?

Both Toulouse and Biarritz are excellent to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toulouse. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Biarritz is 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 Toulouse or Biarritz Better for Couples?

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

Toulouse is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

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 Toulouse or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Toulouse or Biarritz Better for Students?

Toulouse is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

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

While Toulouse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

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

Is Toulouse or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Toulouse and Biarritz are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Toulouse is a very walkable destination. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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 Toulouse Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Toulouse?

How long in Toulouse or Biarritz?

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

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

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

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

The city of Toulouse offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Toulouse or Biarritz?

Toulouse is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city 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 Toulouse, 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 Toulouse or Biarritz?

Toulouse is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Toulouse or Biarritz?

Toulouse is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 city 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Toulouse 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 Toulouse Expensive? and Is Biarritz Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Toulouse or Biarritz?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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 Toulouse or Biarritz in the Summer?

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

In July, Toulouse is generally around the same temperature as Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Toulouse average around 22°C (72°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 Toulouse, it's very sunny this time of the year. Toulouse usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Toulouse gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Toulouse usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Toulouse gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Toulouse or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Toulouse as well as Biarritz. Many visitors come to Toulouse in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

Toulouse is around the same temperature as Biarritz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Toulouse averages around 15°C (60°F) in October, and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Toulouse often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Toulouse gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Toulouse usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Toulouse gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulouse or Biarritz in the Winter?

Both Biarritz and Toulouse are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Toulouse 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, Toulouse is cooler than Biarritz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Toulouse in January average around 6°C (44°F), and Biarritz averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Toulouse usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Biarritz during winter. Toulouse gets 88 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, Toulouse usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Toulouse gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Toulouse or Biarritz in the Spring?

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

In April, Toulouse is generally around the same temperature as Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Toulouse average around 12°C (54°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Toulouse often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Toulouse gets 178 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. Toulouse usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Toulouse gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Toulouse