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

Should you visit Bilbao or Pisa?

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 Pisa. 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 friendly, industrial, and authentic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Pisa

Pisa is a iconic, world-famous, and classic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Bilbao and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bilbao or Pisa?

Both Pisa and Bilbao have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Bilbao is better known for its big city activities, while Pisa is more popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Pisa is more touristy than Bilbao and is popular for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. Bilbao is well known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Bilbao different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Bilbao and Pisa.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Pisa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pisa. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

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 Pisa Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Pisa for the nightlife scene. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

Is Bilbao or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a good destination for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Pisa offers a nice beach destination. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Bilbao or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Pisa 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 Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

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 Pisa?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pisa 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 Pisa. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

Is Bilbao or Pisa Better for Families?

Both Bilbao and Pisa 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.

Pisa offers lots of family activities. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.

Is Bilbao or Pisa Better for Couples?

Bilbao and Pisa 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.

Pisa is a good city for couples to visit. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Bilbao or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Pisa is a great city to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social 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 Pisa Better for Students?

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

Pisa is a very popular place to visit for students. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

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

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

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

Pisa has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

Is Bilbao or Pisa a more walkable city?

Pisa 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.

Pisa is a very walkable city. The city is a great place to explore 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 Pisa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or Pisa?

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

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

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

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

One day in Bilbao or Pisa?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bilbao. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pisa. 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 Pisa?

Bilbao is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pisa 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 Pisa?

You'll find shopping and museums around the industrial destination of Bilbao. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

The industrial city of Bilbao offers museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the classic destination of Pisa. 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Bilbao and Pisa, 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. 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 Pisa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Pisa?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao and Pisa, 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 Pisa?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bilbao or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Bilbao during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pisa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Pisa, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Bilbao gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Bilbao usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or Pisa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bilbao and Pisa. Many travelers come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pisa in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bilbao is around the same temperature as Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bilbao in October average around 16°C (62°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during autumn. Bilbao gets 125 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pisa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Bilbao usually receives less rain than Pisa. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bilbao or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bilbao as well as Pisa. Many visitors come to Bilbao in the winter for the museums and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Pisa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Bilbao is generally a little warmer than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 9°C (48°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the winter. Bilbao usually gets more rain in January than Pisa. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or Pisa in the Spring?

Both Pisa and Bilbao are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bilbao for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Pisa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during spring. Bilbao gets 117 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pisa. It's quite rainy in Bilbao. In April, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Pisa. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Bilbao