Which place is cheaper, Calgary or Bilbao?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Jump to 
Should you visit Bilbao or Calgary?
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 Calgary. 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. See Bilbao travel costs.
Calgary
Calgary is a local, authentic, and western city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Calgary travel costs.
Bilbao and Calgary: Pros and Cons
Bilbao
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Active nightlife
- Scenic old town
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
Calgary
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Less popular for food
Is there more to do in Bilbao or Calgary?
Visitors will generally find more to do in Bilbao than Calgary. While Calgary is larger than Bilbao, Bilbao has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Calgary is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede. 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 Calgary?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Calgary 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 Calgary?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.
If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.
Is the Food Better in Bilbao or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.
Many restaurants in Bilbao have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.
Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.
Is Bilbao or Calgary Better for Nightlife?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.
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.
If you're looking for night time activities Calgary has a few options to choose from. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.
Is Bilbao or Calgary Better for its Old Town?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao is a city with good options for its old town. However, Calgary 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.
Calgary does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Bilbao or Calgary?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Calgary 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.
Calgary has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.
Is Bilbao or Calgary Better for Families?
Bilbao
Calgary
Both Bilbao and Calgary 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.
Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.
Is Bilbao or Calgary Better for Couples?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao and Calgary both notable 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.
Calgary is a good city for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.
Is Bilbao or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao and Calgary are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.
Plenty of backpackers visit Bilbao. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and a good social scene that makes it easy to meet other backpackers.
Plenty of budget travelers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.
Is Bilbao or Calgary Better for Students?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao is a city with good options for students. However, Calgary 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.
Calgary is not popular with students.
Is Bilbao or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao is well known for its public transit. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
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.
While Calgary offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.
Is Bilbao or Calgary a more walkable city?
Bilbao
Calgary
Bilbao is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.
Bilbao is a somewhat walkable place. It's a fairly walkable city with several pedestrian-friendly areas.
Calgary is generally not a very walkable city. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.
For even more information, also check out Is Bilbao Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Calgary or Bilbao?
How long in Bilbao or Calgary?
You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bilbao or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bilbao than Calgary 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 Calgary.
Families should spend more time in Bilbao than Calgary. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bilbao, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Bilbao than Calgary. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bilbao that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bilbao than Calgary 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.
-
How many days in Bilbao or Calgary? Ideal Length of StayBilbao 2-3Calgary 1-2
One day in Bilbao or Calgary?
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.
Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Calgary. One day is often enough time to do most activities.
A weekend in Bilbao or Calgary?
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.
Calgary 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 Calgary?
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 Calgary. 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 Calgary?
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.
Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the western destination of Calgary. This city 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 Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.
-
Bilbao Prices
Spain PricesCalgary Prices
Canada Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBilbao €170Calgary €162
The average daily cost (per person) in Bilbao is €170, while the average daily cost in Calgary is €162. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bilbao and Calgary in more detail.
Accommodation
-
Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBilbao €72Calgary €67
-
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBilbao €144Calgary €134
Compare Hotels in Bilbao and Calgary
Looking for a hotel in Bilbao or Calgary? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bilbao Hotel Prices and Calgary Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
-
Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bilbao €26Calgary €11
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bilbao
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bilbao:
- Bilbao Airport Private Arrival Transfer to Various Cities : $46
- Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Luxury Car: $67
- Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Luxury Van: $63
- Bilbao Airport Transfers to Pamplona: $403
- Bilbao Airport Transfers to San Sebastian: $305
- Bilbao Airport Transfers to Santander: $305
- Bilbao Airport Transfers to Vitoria-Gasteiz: $201
- Bilbao Airport to the Basque Country: Private Transfers: $90
- Departure Private Transfer Bilbao City to Bilbao airport BIO by Business Car: $63
- Private Transfer from Bilbao City Hotels to Bilbao Cruise Port: $89
- Private Transfer from Bilbao Cruise Port to Bilbao Airport (BIO): $95
- Private Transfer from Bilbao Cruise Port to Bilbao City Hotels: $89
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:
- Alberta Transfer: Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Calgary: $60
- Arrival Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Luxury SUV: $124
- Arrival Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Luxury Van: $124
- Banff To Calgary Airport - Private Transfer: $349
- Banff/Canmore to Calgary or YYC Airport Private Transfer: $206
- Banff: Private Transfer to Calgary Airport or Calgary: $108
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Calgary hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $107
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Calgary hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $215
- Calgary Airport Transfer to/from Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise: $42
- Calgary Airport to Canmore or Kananaskis | Private Transfer: $120
- Calgary Airport to Canmore | Private Transfer: $174
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Drumheller: $210
Is it cheaper to fly into Bilbao or Calgary?
Prices for flights to both Calgary and Bilbao change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
-
Food Meals for one dayBilbao €77Calgary €49
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bilbao
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bilbao.
- Basque Food Tour with Guide: $81
- Bilbao Food Tour with Pintxos & Drinks with a Local: $92
- Bilbao Food Tour with Pintxos & Drinks with a Local: $94
- The Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairings: $98
- The High End Bilbao Food Tour for Foodies: $103
- The High End Food Tour of Bilbao with a Local: $105
- Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao: $105
- Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao : $105
- The Award-Winning Bilbao Food Tour & Wine Pairing by Basque Local: $108
- Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class with Open Bar: $108
- Paella Cooking Class with Sangria in Bilbao: $129
- Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao: $137
Typical Food Prices in Calgary
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:
-
Bread, Chips, Cheese€7.41
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Calgary.
- Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $78
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $123
Entertainment
-
Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bilbao €29Calgary €14
Tours and Activities in Bilbao
Here are a few actual costs in Bilbao for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Bilbao´s Old Town Responsible Walking Tour (Tip based): $2.07
- 30-Minute Entry Ticket to a Cat Café: $7.23
- Vitoria-Gasteiz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.99
- Secrets of Casco Viejo in Quest Experience: $11
- Year of Love in Quest Experience: $11
- San Mamés Museum and Stadium Tour: $17
- Old Town Bilbao Tour in small group: $21
- Bilbao Historical Tour: $21
- Bilbao old town walking tour: $21
- Bilbao night tour: $21
- Self Guided Bike Tour in Getxo (Scenic Bilbao's Seaside): $26
- Bilbao Tour + Artxanda Funicular in Spanish: $26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary
Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
-
Stampede Admission (for 2)€20
Tours and Activities in Calgary
Here are a few actual costs in Calgary for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Bow River Trail Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $4.89
- Downtown Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $4.89
- Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 3-Hour: $4.90
- Downtown Calgary a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.72
- Rocky Mountains: Smartphone Driving and Walking Audio Tours: $14
- Fun Selfie Experience in Calgary: $14
- Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour: $21
- Calgary Flames Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $25
- Sheep & Spirits: Diamond Valley Hiking Experience: $47
- 3-Hour Sightseeing Bus Tour: $48
- Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $51
- 3.5-Hour Bus City Tour with Gasoline Alley Museum: $53
Alcohol
-
Alcohol Drinks for one dayBilbao €21Calgary €10
Sample the Local Flavors in Bilbao
Also in Bilbao, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Unique Spanish Wine Tasting with Sommelier - In Bilbao: $51
- Spanish Wine Tasting with Sommelier (close to Guggenheim museum): $52
- Pintxos and Wine Tasting Tour with Local Guide: $76
- From La Rioja Wineries Day Trip with Wine Tastings: $77
- Guided tour of Txakoli wine tasting and tasting of wine and typical products: $142
- Bilbao Txakoli Wine Tour: $170
- Guided Txacoli Wine Tasting: $181
- Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Bilbao: $237
- Marques de Riscal and Ysios Architecture Wine Tour w/ Lunch, Bio: $241
- Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Vitoria: $242
- Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Bilbao: $242
- Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao : $247
Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary
Also in Calgary, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Calgary Bar Crawl: Cruisin' Calgary: $12
- Calgary Brewery and Wine Tours at Award Winning Venues: $80
When comparing the travel costs between Bilbao and Calgary, 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. Even though Bilbao is in Europe and Calgary is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bilbao Expensive? and Is Calgary Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Calgary?
Calgary has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao and Calgary, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.