A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Bilbao for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Old Town

Should you visit Amsterdam or Bilbao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Bilbao, 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.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a colorful, friendly, and industrial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Bilbao?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Bilbao. Amsterdam is bigger than Bilbao, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Bilbao is well known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Amsterdam different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or Bilbao?

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Bilbao.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bilbao. A favorite museum in town is the popular Guggenheim Museum. From its iconic building to the unique exhibits, this is a must-see stop during your visit. Other highlights around town include the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao, the Museo Vasco, as well as the city's unique bridges.

Is the Food Better in Amsterdam or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Amsterdam is a city with a few options for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Amsterdam. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Bilbao is not a culinary destination. The food scene is among the best in Spain. The city has several world renowned restaurants, including a few Michelin-starred restaurants, but there are also smaller eateries that cater to the locals and tourists alike. Make sure you try the pintxos, which are small dishes that are the Basque region's answer to tapas. Many include seafood and are cooked with olive oil and garlic.

Is Amsterdam or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Many people head to Bilbao for the nightlife scene. There's a great late night scene that centers around eating and drinking. There are lively nightclubs, a good live music scene, and no shortage of people heading out on the town.

Is Amsterdam or Bilbao Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Bilbao is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Bilbao is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is well known for its old town. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Bilbao has an old town worth visiting. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Bilbao?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bilbao and Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bilbao. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Is Amsterdam or Bilbao Better for Families?

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bilbao. The city offers some great museums such as the Guggenheim Museum. Families will also enjoy taking a ride of the Artxander Funicular, and exploring Mercado de la Ribera. You can also enjoy walking around Park Abandoibarra and exploring the creative sculptures.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Bilbao is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with a vibrant enjoy with parks and outdoor strolls that couples will enjoy. There are also many great museums and romantic restaurants as well as some great shopping streets.

Is Amsterdam or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bilbao. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and a good social scene that makes it easy to meet other backpackers.

Is Amsterdam or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Bilbao is popular with students. This is a popular study abroad destination with many great museums and educational opportunities for international students.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Amsterdam or Bilbao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Amsterdam is top-notch. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bilbao. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Is Amsterdam or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Bilbao is a somewhat walkable city. It's a fairly walkable city with several pedestrian-friendly areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Bilbao. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Bilbao. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Bilbao 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or Bilbao?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bilbao. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Bilbao?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Bilbao. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly city of Bilbao. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Bilbao?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Bilbao is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Bilbao, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Bilbao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bilbao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bilbao 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 Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam than you might in Bilbao.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Bilbao?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Bilbao, 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 Amsterdam or Bilbao?

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 Amsterdam or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Amsterdam is cooler than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is much colder than Bilbao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Bilbao averages at about 16°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Bilbao. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun.

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Bilbao. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the museums and the shopping scene.

Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Bilbao. The spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

Amsterdam is much colder than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Amsterdam