A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Bilbao vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Old Town

Should you visit Bilbao or Barcelona?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bilbao and Barcelona. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a industrial, authentic, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a youthful, colorful, and laid-back city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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.

Bilbao and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bilbao or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Bilbao. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Bilbao is famous for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Bilbao different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Bilbao and Barcelona.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Barcelona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Barcelona. 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.

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 Bilbao or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona 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.

Barcelona has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

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 Bilbao or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Bilbao is not a live music destination.

Is Bilbao or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a good destination for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Bilbao or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona 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 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.

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 Bilbao or Barcelona?

Barcelona is an amazing 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 Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

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 Bilbao or Barcelona Better for Families?

Both Bilbao and Barcelona are nice family-friendly destinations.

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.

Barcelona offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Bilbao or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Bilbao and Barcelona both nice destinations for a couple.

Bilbao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Barcelona is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Bilbao or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona. 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.

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 Bilbao or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Barcelona is a very popular place to visit 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.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bilbao and Barcelona.

Public transit in Bilbao can get you to some places easily. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Barcelona. 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 Bilbao or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Bilbao is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

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 Bilbao Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or Barcelona?

Both Bilbao and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Bilbao. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Bilbao, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

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

One day in Bilbao or Barcelona?

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.

Barcelona 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.

A weekend in Bilbao or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly 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.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bilbao or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the authentic 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. 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.

A week in Bilbao or Barcelona?

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.

Barcelona 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao and Barcelona, 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 Bilbao or Barcelona?

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 Bilbao or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bilbao and Barcelona. Most visitors come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bilbao is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 20°C (68°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Bilbao gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bilbao or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bilbao as well as Barcelona. The autumn months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, 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.

Bilbao is around the same temperature as Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bilbao averages around 16°C (62°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Bilbao gets 125 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bilbao usually gets more rain in October than Barcelona. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Bilbao are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Bilbao is around the same temperature as Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bilbao in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during winter. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. In January, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bilbao or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Bilbao during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bilbao for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Bilbao is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 12°C (54°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Bilbao gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. Bilbao usually gets more rain in April than Barcelona. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Bilbao