A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bilbao vs. Miami for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Bilbao or Miami?

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 Miami. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Miami

Miami is a high energy, glamorous, and exciting beach city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and beaches.

Bilbao and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bilbao or Miami?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Miami. Although Bilbao and Miami are about the same size, Miami has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Miami is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Bilbao attracts visitors for its museums & sights and historical sights. Miami is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also well known for South Beach. Bilbao is famous for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Bilbao different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bilbao is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Bilbao and Miami can be difficult as they are each first-rate in their own way.

Eat your way through Bilbao, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

For foodies, Miami is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Is Bilbao or Miami Better for Nightlife?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Miami has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami Better for Music?

Miami is an amazing beach 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 Miami Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Bilbao is not a live music destination.

Is Bilbao or Miami Better for Resorts?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its resorts. However, Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Miami for its luxury resorts. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Is Bilbao or Miami Better for Beaches?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Miami offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Bilbao or Miami Better for its Old Town?

Bilbao is very good for its historic old town. However, Miami 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.

Miami does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bilbao or Miami?

Miami is an amazing beach 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 Miami make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

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 Miami Better for Families?

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

Miami is a very kid-friendly beach city. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

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 Miami Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Miami frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

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 Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bilbao and Miami 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 Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Bilbao or Miami Better for Students?

Bilbao and Miami are nice places to visit for students.

Bilbao is popular with students. This is a popular study abroad destination with many great museums and educational opportunities for international students.

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

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

Bilbao is well known for its public transit. Also, Miami 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 Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Is Bilbao or Miami a more walkable city?

Miami 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.

Miami is a very walkable beach city. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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 Miami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Miami or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or Miami?

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

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

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

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

One day in Bilbao or Miami?

In Bilbao, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this colorful destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Miami is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bilbao or Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bilbao. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Miami 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 Miami?

Bilbao is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bilbao. Lots of people come for the food. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Miami. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Miami?

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Bilbao. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Miami is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bilbao and Miami, we can see that Miami is more expensive. And not only is Bilbao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bilbao is in Europe and Miami is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami 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 Miami Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Miami?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao and Miami, 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 Miami?

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 Miami in the Summer?

Both Miami and Bilbao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Miami in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bilbao is generally cooler than Miami. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 20°C (68°F), and Miami fluctuates around 83°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Miami during summer. Bilbao gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. In July, Bilbao usually receives less rain than Miami. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Miami receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bilbao or Miami in the Autumn?

Both Miami and Bilbao during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bilbao in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Bilbao is much colder than Miami in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bilbao averages around 16°C (62°F) in October, and Miami fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Miami. Bilbao gets 125 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 275 hours of full sun.

Miami 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 Miami. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Miami receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or Miami in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bilbao and Miami. Most visitors come to Bilbao for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Miami because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Bilbao is much colder than Miami. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bilbao in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Miami averages at about 67°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Miami during winter. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 243 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 Miami. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Miami receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bilbao or Miami in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bilbao as well as Miami. The spring months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Miami this time of year.

In April, Bilbao is generally much colder than Miami. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 12°C (54°F), and Miami fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. In the spring, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Miami. Bilbao gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 300 hours of full sun.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Bilbao usually gets more rain in April than Miami. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Miami receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Miami and Bilbao