A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Barcelona vs. Milan for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Old Town

Should you visit Barcelona or Milan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Barcelona and Milan 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.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a youthful, colorful, and laid-back city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Milan

Milan is a cultural, trendy, and chic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Barcelona and Milan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Barcelona or Milan?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Milan. Barcelona is bigger than Milan, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is better known for its beaches, while Milan is more popular for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Barcelona is more touristy than Milan and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Milan is well known for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world.

How is Barcelona different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Barcelona or Milan?

Both Barcelona and Milan have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

Is the Food Better in Barcelona or Milan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Milan is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Barcelona or Milan Better for Nightlife?

Both Barcelona and Milan are world-class when it comes to partying.

Barcelona is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Milan has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Is Barcelona or Milan Better for Music?

Both Barcelona and Milan offer world-class live music venues.

Barcelona is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Milan. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Is Barcelona or Milan Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a city with good options for the beach. However, Milan is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Barcelona. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Milan is not a beach destination.

Is Barcelona or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Milan is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Milan is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Barcelona or Milan?

Both Barcelona and Milan are world-class shopping destinations.

Barcelona is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Known for shopping, Milan draws large crowds to its stores. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Is Barcelona or Milan Better for Families?

Both Barcelona and Milan are notable to visit with kids.

Barcelona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Milan is a family-friendly city. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Barcelona or Milan Better for Couples?

Milan is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Barcelona or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Barcelona, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Barcelona or Milan Better for Students?

Barcelona and Milan are both world-class destinations for students and younger travelers.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Is Barcelona or Milan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Milan is renowned for its public transit. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Milan has a great public transit system. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Barcelona or Milan a more walkable city?

Milan is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Milan on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Barcelona Worth Visiting? and Is Milan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milan or Barcelona?

How long in Barcelona or Milan?

In either Barcelona or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than Milan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Barcelona, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Milan 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 Barcelona.

One day in Barcelona or Milan?

Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Milan. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milan has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Barcelona or Milan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find live music and food around the chic big city of Milan. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Barcelona or Milan?

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural city of Milan. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Barcelona or Milan?

Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Milan is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Barcelona or Milan?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Milan. When comparing the sizes of Barcelona and Milan, 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 Barcelona or Milan?

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 Barcelona or Milan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Milan. The summer months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Milan this time of year.

In July, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Milan. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 23°C (73°F), and Milan fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Milan. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In the summer, Barcelona often gets more sunshine than Milan. Barcelona gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in July than Milan. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Barcelona or Milan in the Autumn?

Both Milan and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milan for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Barcelona is a little warmer than Milan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Milan fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Barcelona usually receives more sunshine than Milan during autumn. Barcelona gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Milan. In October, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Milan. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Barcelona or Milan in the Winter?

Both Milan and Barcelona during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Milan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Milan can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Barcelona is much warmer than Milan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Barcelona in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Milan averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Barcelona often gets more sunshine than Milan. Barcelona gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 119 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in January than Milan. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Barcelona or Milan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Milan. Many visitors come to Barcelona in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Milan. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 13°C (55°F), and Milan fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. Barcelona usually receives more sunshine than Milan during spring. Barcelona gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Milan. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Milan and Barcelona