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

Should you visit Bilbao or Finale Ligure?

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 Finale Ligure. 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a beautiful, scenic, and historic area. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Bilbao and Finale Ligure: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Bilbao or Finale Ligure?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bilbao. Although Bilbao and Finale Ligure are popular destinations, Bilbao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bilbao is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Finale Ligure attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bilbao is famous for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. It is also well known for The Guggenheim Museum. Finale Ligure is famous for its sandy beaches and great food.

How is Bilbao different from Finale Ligure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Bilbao is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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

Finale Ligure offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The natural beauty is the main attraction to this part of Liguria, but there are also medieval towns such as Finalborgo and historic places such as Castel Gavone.


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

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Finale Ligure. Seafood, local flavors, and even a couple of Michelin starred restaurants make this area a foodie's paradise. The dishes are rich in flavors and fine dining is common throughout the area.

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 Finale Ligure Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Bilbao is a great destination for nightlife. However, Finale Ligure is a area with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Finale Ligure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This beautiful coastline is filled with fine dining restaurants and some nice wine and cocktail bars. It's not known for its party scene, but there are some nice places to spend the evening.

Is Bilbao or Finale Ligure Better for Resorts?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a good destination for its resorts. However, Bilbao is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Finale Ligure makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find a mix of smaller local hotels, many with pools, along the coastline. There are also a number of apartments to choose from.

Bilbao is not a resort destination.


Is Bilbao or Finale Ligure Better for Beaches?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is well known for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Finale Ligure for it's beautiful beaches. This stretch of coastline has the longest sandy beaches in Liguria. You'll also find dramatic cliffs and beautiful views.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Bilbao or Finale Ligure Better for its Old Town?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Bilbao is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Finale Ligure does not have a historic old town.

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

Finale Ligure does not have a historic old town.

Is Bilbao or Finale Ligure Better for Hiking?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Finale Ligure. There are many walking and trekking trails along the coast and through the hills. You'll pass medieval towns and beautiful viewpoints that let you experience the Ligurian coastline in all of its beauty.

Bilbao is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bilbao or Finale Ligure?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

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

Bilbao is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Finale Ligure. You'll find clothing boutiques, food specialty stores, and places to pick up anything that you may have forgotten.

Is Bilbao or Finale Ligure Better for Families?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Finale Ligure is a very kid-friendly area. This section of the Italian Riviera has the longest sandy beach in Liguria. There are also places where kids can swim and just relax from sightseeing and travel.

Bilbao offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Bilbao or Finale Ligure Better for Couples?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

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

Couples visit Finale Ligure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its sandy beaches and seaside cliffs, this area makes a great romantic getaway. Italian food on the Italian Riviera - what could be more romantic.

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 Finale Ligure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Bilbao and Finale Ligure are nice 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 Finale Ligure. While there aren't a lot of hostels, there are a few reasonably priced guesthouses to choose from.

Is Bilbao or Finale Ligure Better for Students?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Bilbao is a popular place for students. However, Finale Ligure 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.

Finale Ligure is not popular with students.

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

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

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

Visitors to Bilbao can move around easily with public transportation. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

While Finale Ligure offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both trains and buses through the area.


Is Bilbao or Finale Ligure a more walkable city?

Bilbao
Finale Ligure

Bilbao and Finale Ligure both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Finale Ligure is a somewhat walkable city. There are many walking routes throughout this stretch of coastline.

For even more information, also check out Is Bilbao Worth Visiting? and Is Finale Ligure Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Finale Ligure or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or Finale Ligure?

It's fun to spend time in either Bilbao or Finale Ligure. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Finale Ligure due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Bilbao, and 2-4 days is enough time in Finale Ligure.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bilbao than Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bilbao 2-3 
    Finale Ligure 2-4

One day in Bilbao or Finale Ligure?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the industrial destination of Bilbao. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Finale Ligure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bilbao or Finale Ligure?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bilbao. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Bilbao. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Finale Ligure. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Finale Ligure?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Bilbao. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Finale Ligure. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Finale Ligure or Bilbao?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bilbao is €137, while the average daily cost in Finale Ligure is €143. 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 Finale Ligure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bilbao 72
    Finale Ligure 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bilbao 144
    Finale Ligure 148
Compare Hotels in Bilbao and Finale Ligure

Looking for a hotel in Bilbao or Finale Ligure? 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.

Hotels in Bilbao


Hotels in Finale Ligure


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 Finale Ligure Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bilbao 26
    Finale Ligure 56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bilbao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bilbao:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bilbao airport BIO to Bilbao City by Business Car: $60
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bilbao airport BIO to Bilbao City by Luxury Van: $80
  • Bilbao Airport Private Arrival Transfer to Various Cities : $45
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Business Car: $50
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Luxury Car: $70
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Luxury Van: $66
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers to Pamplona: $417
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers to San Sebastian: $315
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers to Santander: $315
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers to Vitoria-Gasteiz: $209
  • Bilbao Airport to the Basque Country: Private Transfers: $91
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bilbao City to Bilbao airport BIO by Luxury Van: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Bilbao or Finale Ligure?

Prices for flights to both Finale Ligure 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 day
    Bilbao 45
    Finale Ligure 34

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: $86
  • The Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairings: $102
  • Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao : $109
  • Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class with Open Bar: $112
  • The Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairing: $115
  • Basque Flavours: High End Food Tour of Bilbao with a Local: $120
  • Paella Cooking Class with Sangria in Bilbao: $134
  • Private Food Tour, Food Lovers with Tastings: $134
  • Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao: $142
  • Traditional Basque Cooking Class with Wine Tasting: $155
  • Guggenheim Museum Visit & Private Walking Food Tour: $197

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bilbao 29
    Finale Ligure 28

Tours and Activities in Bilbao

Here are a few actual costs in Bilbao for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bilbao Cathedral and San Anton Church Entry Ticket: $4.28
  • Bilbao Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour: $7.48
  • VITORIA DE LEGEND night tour: $11
  • Bilbao Confidential Tour: Industrialists and Bourgeois: $13
  • 1- or 2-Hour Sightseeing Boat Tour: $15
  • Tour of the Great Villas in Getxo and Hanging Bridge: $16
  • Bilbao tour: $17
  • San Mamés Museum and Stadium Tour: $18
  • Bilbao Estuary and Abra Bay Boat Tour: $20
  • Bilbao Historical Small Group Tour : $28
  • Walking tour of Bilbao with pintxo and drink: $31
  • Private Kayak Tour along the Getxo Coast and Hanging Bridge: $34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bilbao 21
    Finale Ligure 6.99

Sample the Local Flavors in Bilbao

Also in Bilbao, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Bilbao: $25
  • Immersive Evening Spanish Wine Tasting w/ Sommelier: $53
  • Spanish Wine Tasting with Sommelier (close to Guggenheim museum): $54
  • Pintxos and Wine Tasting Tour with Local Guide: $79
  • Txakoli, Gaztelugatxe, & Urdaibai with wine tasting: $80
  • Guided tour of Txakoli wine tasting and tasting of wine and typical products: $148
  • Bilbao Txakoli Wine Tour: $176
  • Guided Txacoli Wine Tasting: $187
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Vitoria: $240
  • From Rioja Architecture and Wine Tour: $241
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Bilbao: $246
  • Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao : $246


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


Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Finale Ligure?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Finale Ligure. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao and Finale Ligure, 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 Finale Ligure?

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 Finale Ligure in the Summer?

Both Finale Ligure and Bilbao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Finale Ligure for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bilbao is generally cooler than Finale Ligure. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 20°C (68°F), and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Finale Ligure. Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Finale Ligure during summer. Bilbao gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Finale Ligure receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Finale Ligure. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bilbao 20°C (68°F) 
    Finale Ligure 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Bilbao or Finale Ligure in the Autumn?

Both Finale Ligure and Bilbao during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Finale Ligure in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bilbao is cooler than Finale Ligure in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bilbao averages around 16°C (62°F) in October, and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Finale Ligure. Bilbao gets 125 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Finale Ligure receives 183 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. Bilbao usually gets more rain in October than Finale Ligure. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bilbao 16°C (62°F) 
    Finale Ligure 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Bilbao or Finale Ligure in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bilbao and Finale Ligure. Many visitors come to Bilbao in the winter for the museums and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Finale Ligure for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Bilbao is cooler than Finale Ligure. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bilbao in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Finale Ligure averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Finale Ligure during winter. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies, while Finale Ligure receives 127 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 Finale Ligure. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bilbao 9°C (48°F) 
    Finale Ligure 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Bilbao or Finale Ligure in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bilbao as well as Finale Ligure. Most visitors come to Bilbao for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Finale Ligure because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Bilbao is generally cooler than Finale Ligure. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 12°C (54°F), and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the spring, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Finale Ligure. Bilbao gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Finale Ligure receives 198 hours of full sun.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Bilbao usually gets more rain in April than Finale Ligure. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bilbao 12°C (54°F) 
    Finale Ligure 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Finale Ligure and Bilbao

Bilbao Finale Ligure
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 16°C (62°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 152 mm (6 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 135 mm (5.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)