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

Should you visit Bilbao or San Remo?

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 San Remo. 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 authentic, colorful, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

San Remo

San Remo is a historic, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Bilbao and San Remo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bilbao or San Remo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bilbao than San Remo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bilbao is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while San Remo is known for its food, beaches, 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. San Remo is popular for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is Bilbao different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bilbao is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit San Remo. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

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 San Remo Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Bilbao has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is Bilbao or San Remo Better for Beaches?

San Remo is well known for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Many people visit San Remo for it's beautiful beaches. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Bilbao or San Remo Better for its Old Town?

San Remo 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 San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

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 San Remo?

Bilbao is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

San Remo is a great destination for shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Bilbao or San Remo Better for Families?

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

San Remo is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit San Remo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

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 San Remo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bilbao is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is Bilbao or San Remo Better for Students?

Bilbao is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo is not popular with students.

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

San Remo is not popular with students.

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

Bilbao is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Bilbao offers a very effecient public transportation network. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

You'll find some public transit in San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is Bilbao or San Remo a more walkable city?

San Remo 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.

San Remo is a very walkable coastal city. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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 San Remo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Remo or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or San Remo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bilbao or San Remo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bilbao than San Remo 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 San Remo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bilbao than San Remo 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.

One day in Bilbao or San Remo?

The city of Bilbao offers nightlife and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of San Remo. 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 San Remo?

Bilbao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bilbao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

San Remo 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 San Remo?

Bilbao is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Bilbao is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of San Remo. This coastal 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Bilbao or San Remo?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bilbao as well as San Remo. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to San Remo for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bilbao is cooler than San Remo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bilbao in July average around 20°C (68°F), and San Remo averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Remo. In the summer, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than San Remo. Bilbao gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun.

Bilbao usually gets more rain in July than San Remo. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or San Remo in the Autumn?

Both San Remo and Bilbao are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to San Remo in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bilbao is generally around the same temperature as San Remo. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 16°C (62°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than San Remo during autumn. Bilbao gets 125 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Remo. It's quite rainy in Bilbao. In October, Bilbao usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Remo. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bilbao or San Remo in the Winter?

Both San Remo and Bilbao during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bilbao in the winter for the museums and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Bilbao is around the same temperature as San Remo in the winter. The daily temperature in Bilbao averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and San Remo fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than San Remo. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. Bilbao usually gets more rain in January than San Remo. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or San Remo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bilbao and San Remo. Most visitors come to Bilbao for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to San Remo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bilbao is around the same temperature as San Remo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bilbao in April average around 12°C (54°F), and San Remo averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than San Remo during spring. Bilbao gets 117 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Bilbao usually receives more rain than San Remo. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Remo and Bilbao