A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bilbao vs. Bellagio for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Bilbao or Bellagio?

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 Bellagio. 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 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.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a beautiful, impressive, and glamorous town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and shopping.

Bilbao and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bilbao or Bellagio?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bilbao than Bellagio, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bilbao is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Bellagio is more popular for its food, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bellagio is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. Bilbao is well known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. Also, Bilbao is famous for The Guggenheim Museum.

How is Bilbao different from Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bellagio 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 Bellagio?

Bilbao is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Bellagio. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

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 Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Bilbao know how to have a good time. 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.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is Bilbao or Bellagio Better for its Old Town?

Bilbao is a city with good options for its old town. However, Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Bilbao to see the old town. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bilbao or Bellagio?

Bilbao is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Bilbao is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Bellagio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Bilbao or Bellagio Better for Families?

Both Bilbao and Bellagio are notable 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.

Bellagio offers lots of family activities. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Is Bilbao or Bellagio Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Bellagio frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.

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 Bilbao or Bellagio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bilbao is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is Bilbao or Bellagio Better for Students?

Bilbao is a city with good options for students. However, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio is not popular with students.

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

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

The public transit in Bilbao can get you around easily. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

While Bellagio offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.

Is Bilbao or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Bellagio is an amazing town 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 Bellagio on foot is easy. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are 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 Bilbao Worth Visiting? and Is Bellagio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bilbao or Bellagio to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bilbao than Bellagio because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Bilbao, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bellagio.

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

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

One day in Bilbao or Bellagio?

The city of Bilbao offers nightlife and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Bellagio might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Bilbao or Bellagio?

Bilbao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bilbao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Bellagio 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.

Five days in Bilbao or Bellagio?

Bilbao is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Bilbao or Bellagio?

Bilbao is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Bellagio is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bilbao and Bellagio, we can see that Bellagio 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 Bellagio would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bellagio 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 Bilbao Expensive? and Is Bellagio Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Bellagio?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Bellagio. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao and Bellagio, 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 Bellagio?

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 Bellagio in the Summer?

Both Bellagio and Bilbao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bellagio because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Bilbao is cooler than Bellagio in the summer. The daily temperature in Bilbao averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Bellagio fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Bellagio. Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Bellagio during summer. Bilbao gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bellagio. In July, Bilbao usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bilbao or Bellagio in the Autumn?

Both Bellagio and Bilbao during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bellagio this time of year.

In the autumn, Bilbao is a little warmer than Bellagio. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bilbao in October average around 16°C (62°F), and Bellagio averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Bellagio. Bilbao gets 125 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun.

Bellagio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. Bilbao usually gets less rain in October than Bellagio. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or Bellagio in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bilbao and Bellagio. The museums and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bellagio for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bellagio. In January, Bilbao is generally much warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 9°C (48°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Bellagio during winter. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Bellagio. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bilbao or Bellagio in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bilbao as well as Bellagio. Many travelers come to Bilbao for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Bellagio in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Bilbao is around the same temperature as Bellagio in the spring. The daily temperature in Bilbao averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Bellagio fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Bellagio. Bilbao gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bellagio. Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Bilbao usually gets less rain in April than Bellagio. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bellagio and Bilbao