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

Should you visit Windsor or Bordeaux?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a romantic, historical, and elegant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
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
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Windsor or Bordeaux?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bordeaux is better known for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor is more popular for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bordeaux is more touristy than Windsor and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Windsor is well known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

How is Windsor different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor
Bordeaux

Windsor is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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 Windsor or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Bordeaux is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Bordeaux

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Windsor and Bordeaux.

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

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 Windsor or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Bordeaux

It's fun to wander around the notable old towns in both Windsor and Bordeaux.

Many people head to Windsor to see the old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

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 Windsor or Bordeaux?

Windsor
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bordeaux is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Windsor
Bordeaux

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Bordeaux.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

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 Windsor or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Windsor
Bordeaux

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

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Bordeaux is a great town 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.


Is Windsor or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Windsor
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is well known for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Bordeaux is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Windsor
Bordeaux

Bordeaux is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Bordeaux can get you around easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.


Is Windsor or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Windsor
Bordeaux

Windsor and Bordeaux both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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 Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Bordeaux?

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

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


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

One day in Windsor or Bordeaux?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Bordeaux, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Windsor or Bordeaux?

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

In Bordeaux, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer.


Five days in Windsor or Bordeaux?

Windsor 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Bordeaux?

Windsor 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 town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Bordeaux or Windsor?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Bordeaux is £101. 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 Windsor and Bordeaux in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Bordeaux £54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Bordeaux £108
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Bordeaux

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Bordeaux Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Bordeaux £13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Airport to Bordeaux Premium Class Private Transfer: $273
  • Airport to Lège-Cap-Ferret Transfer in Business Sedan: $273
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Van: $115
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $108
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $147
  • Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Car: $97
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Bordeaux City: $165
  • Private Transfer from Bordeaux Airport to City of Bordeaux: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Bordeaux?

Prices for flights to both Bordeaux and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Bordeaux £39
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux

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

  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $63
  • Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $63
  • NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $64
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $74
  • Sweet Specialties Tasting Bakeries Food Tour: $82
  • Bordeaux : Afternoon Food Tour by a local guide: $84
  • Bordeaux Organic Food Tour - French Apéro Style: $93
  • Bordeaux : unforgettable Food Tour by a local guide: $95
  • Private Bakery, Chocolate & Patisserie Food Tour: $95
  • Food Tour in Bordeaux : $97
  • Bordeaux Food Tour - Bakeries, Pastries, Chocolate and more!: $98
  • Bordeaux Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $103

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Bordeaux £6.75

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

Tours and Activities in Bordeaux

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

  • Bordeaux : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Free Walking City Tour: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Bordeaux Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights & Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • The best of Find more than wine on this self-guided audio tour: $6.99
  • Centre of Explore 2,000 years of history on a self-guided audio tour: $8.99
  • Bordeaux Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Guided Walking Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Bordeaux £22

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: $11
  • Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum Admission Ticket with Wine Tasting: $11
  • Distillery Tour in Bordeaux with Spirits Tasting: $16
  • Wine Tasting Cruise: $22
  • Cité du Vin Direct Ticket and Wine Tasting: $24
  • Bordeaux Pub Crawl: $25
  • Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $27
  • Wine Tour and Tasting: $29
  • Unusual Wine Tasting Experience - Wood & Wine: $30
  • Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $32
  • Wine Country Vineyards Tour w/ Local Wine Tastings: $59
  • Bordeaux Vineyards Wine Tasting Half-Day Trip: $62


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Windsor and Bordeaux, we can see that Windsor is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Windsor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Windsor 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 Windsor Expensive? and Is Bordeaux Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Bordeaux?

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

Both Bordeaux and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

Windsor is cooler than Bordeaux in the summer. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Bordeaux. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bordeaux. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Bordeaux 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Windsor is cooler than Bordeaux. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Windsor in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Bordeaux. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Bordeaux 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Bordeaux in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Bordeaux. Many travelers come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Windsor. In January, Windsor is generally cooler than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bordeaux receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Bordeaux 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Bordeaux. Many visitors come to Windsor in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Windsor is cooler than Bordeaux in the spring. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Bordeaux. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Bordeaux 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Windsor

Windsor Bordeaux
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)


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