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

Should you visit Antwerp or Bilbao?

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 Antwerp and Bilbao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a authentic, genuine, and cultural port 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.

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.

Antwerp and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Bilbao?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bilbao than Antwerp. While Antwerp is larger than Bilbao, Bilbao has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bilbao is better known for its food, while Antwerp is more popular for its historical sights and shopping. Bilbao is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. Also, Bilbao is famous for The Guggenheim Museum. Antwerp is well known for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

How is Antwerp different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Antwerp and Bilbao.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bilbao can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Antwerp or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bilbao is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Bilbao has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Antwerp or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Antwerp and Bilbao.

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

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 Antwerp or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp 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 Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

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 Antwerp or Bilbao?

Antwerp is an amazing port city 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 Antwerp make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

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 Antwerp or Bilbao Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Bilbao.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

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 Antwerp or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Both Antwerp and Bilbao are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Bilbao is a good port 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 Antwerp or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp and Bilbao are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bilbao. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and a good social scene that makes it easy to meet other backpackers.

Is Antwerp or Bilbao Better for Students?

Antwerp is well known for students. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Antwerp. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

It's common for students to visit Bilbao. This is a popular study abroad destination with many great museums and educational opportunities for international students.

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

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

Bilbao has some very good public transit options. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Antwerp or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Antwerp is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antwerp and Bilbao. In our opinion, Antwerp has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Antwerp than Bilbao. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

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

One day in Antwerp or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bilbao, 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 Antwerp or Bilbao?

Antwerp is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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.

In Bilbao, 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 Bilbao has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 Antwerp or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the genuine destination of Antwerp. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Budget Tours to Belgium, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Antwerp 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 Antwerp Expensive? and Is Bilbao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Bilbao?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp 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 Antwerp 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 Antwerp or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Antwerp is cooler than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bilbao during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antwerp or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Antwerp is cooler than Bilbao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antwerp in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Bilbao averages at about 16°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Bilbao. Antwerp gets 105 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. Antwerp usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Bilbao. The winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. In January, Antwerp is generally much colder than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 3°C (38°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Antwerp gets 47 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, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antwerp or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Bilbao. The activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the activities around the city.

Antwerp is cooler than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Antwerp