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

Should you visit Antalya or Bilbao?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Bilbao? 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a authentic, colorful, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Antalya and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Bilbao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya than Bilbao, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antalya is more popular for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bilbao is known for its big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Bilbao and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Bilbao is popular for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Antalya different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Bilbao and Antalya.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Many visitors head to Bilbao specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Antalya or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antalya is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Antalya. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

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 Antalya or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Bilbao.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Bilbao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Antalya or Bilbao Better for Music?

Antalya is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Bilbao is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Bilbao is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Bilbao Better for Resorts?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its resorts. However, Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Antalya for its luxury resorts. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Bilbao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Antalya offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Antalya or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Antalya 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 Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

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 Antalya or Bilbao Better for Hiking?

Antalya is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Bilbao?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

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 Antalya or Bilbao Better for Families?

Antalya is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Antalya is a very kid-friendly vacation spot. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Bilbao offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Antalya or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Bilbao is a good vacation spot 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 Antalya or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya is well known for backpackers. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antalya is a great vacation spot to visit for backpackers. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

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 Antalya or Bilbao Better for Students?

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

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

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find superb public transit in both Antalya and Bilbao.

Antalya offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bilbao. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Is Antalya or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Antalya and Bilbao are good when it comes to walkability.

Antalya is a somewhat walkable vacation spot. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and Bilbao. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in Bilbao. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

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

One day in Antalya or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Antalya. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Bilbao, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Antalya or Bilbao?

Antalya 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.

In Bilbao, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bilbao has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Bilbao?

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

Bilbao is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Antalya. This vacation spot offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bilbao. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bilbao. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Bilbao?

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

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 Antalya or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Bilbao. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Bilbao. The autumn months attract visitors to Antalya because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

Antalya is a little warmer than Bilbao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Bilbao. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the museums and the shopping scene.

In the winter, Antalya is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Bilbao averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Bilbao. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Antalya