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

Should you visit Bilbao or Bologna?

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 Bologna. 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. 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 Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bilbao or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bilbao. Although Bilbao and Bologna are both popular with visitors, Bilbao has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bilbao is more popular for its museums and big city activities, while Bologna is known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Bilbao is popular for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. It is also home to The Guggenheim Museum. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Bilbao different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bilbao is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Bologna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It has many historical and religious landmarks, active squares, and impressive museums including the Basilica of St. Petronius, St. Stephen Basilica, the Leaning Towers, and the Portico of the Madonna di San Luca.

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

Bologna is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

Eat your way through Bologna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Foodies will appreciate the city's well earned culinary reputation. Some people even consider Bologna to be a food capital in Italy. There are cooking classes and food tours around town, as well as many great restaurants that serve up local dishes. Visitors should try Tagliatelle with Ragu (now famously known around the world as Bolognaise), Tortellini in broth, and Mortadella (salami).

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 Bologna Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Many people head to Bologna for the nightlife scene. The young population that is filled with international students means that the city has a fun and active nightlife scene. Some of the city's best neighborhoods for nightlife include Centro Storico, where the tourists hang out, the University District, which is perfect for students in their 20s, and Via dell'Indipendenza, which is popular for an upscale evening out.

Is Bilbao or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna 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 Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

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 Bologna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bologna and Bilbao.

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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bologna. The city hosts regular open-air markets where you can pick up local produce or local items. It is among the best shopping destinations in the region. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Piazza Maggiore, Mercato di Mezzo, Mercato delle Erbe, or Via Rizzoli.

Is Bilbao or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Bilbao and Bologna are good 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.

Bologna offers lots of family activities. There are kid-friendly museums such as Museo Geologico Cappellini and the interactive history museum of Museo della Storia di Bologna. There's even a museum solely dedicated to gelato - Gelato at Carpigiani Museum. If your kids need a bit of time in nature, check out Dulcamara farm or the Botanic Garden. On the weekend you many be able to catch a show at Margherita's Puppet Theatre.

Is Bilbao or Bologna Better for Couples?

Bilbao and Bologna both good 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.

Bologna is a good city for couples to visit. With beautiful museums, interesting architecture. and lively squares, this is a great city for a couple's holiday. It's filled with romance, but it has less tourist crowds than some of Italy's more popular cities.

Is Bilbao or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Bologna is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's not a popular as some of the other cities in Italy and Europe, but it still has a number of hostels and a good backpacker scene.

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 Bologna Better for Students?

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

Bologna is a very popular place to visit for students. It's a top study abroad destination in Italy and is home to a few great universities including the well ranked University of Bologna. There are many great activities for students and a variety of fun places to explore.

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 Bologna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bilbao is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bilbao. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Bologna has some public transit options. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Bilbao or Bologna a more walkable city?

Bologna 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.

Bologna is a very walkable city. Most sights are always within a 30 minute walk, and the city itself is very walkable.

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 Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

One day in Bilbao or Bologna?

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.

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

A weekend in Bilbao or Bologna?

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.

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

Five days in Bilbao or Bologna?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. Don't miss the food, 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.

A week in Bilbao or Bologna?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Bologna. This 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao and Bologna, 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 Bologna?

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 Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bilbao and Bologna. Many travelers come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bilbao is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bilbao in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Bologna averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Bilbao gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Bologna. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bilbao or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bilbao as well as Bologna. Many visitors come to Bilbao in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Bilbao is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 16°C (62°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Bilbao gets 125 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bilbao usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Bilbao are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bilbao for the museums and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bologna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bologna can be very cold. Bilbao is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Bilbao averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. In January, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Bologna. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bilbao or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Bilbao during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the spring, Bilbao is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bilbao in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Bilbao gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. Bilbao usually gets more rain in April than Bologna. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Bilbao