A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bilbao vs. Ventimiglia for Old Town, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Bilbao or Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia. 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a scenic, traditional, and understated seaside town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Bilbao and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bilbao or Ventimiglia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bilbao. Although Bilbao and Ventimiglia are both popular with visitors, Bilbao has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bilbao is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia is known for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bilbao is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. It is also home to The Guggenheim Museum. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Bilbao different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bilbao is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Bilbao or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

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

Ventimiglia offers a nice beach destination. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Bilbao or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

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 Ventimiglia?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Is Bilbao or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Both Bilbao and Ventimiglia are good 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.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Bilbao or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Ventimiglia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bilbao is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bilbao or Ventimiglia Better for Students?

Bilbao is a popular place for students. However, Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

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

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

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

While Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Bilbao or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable seaside town. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town 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 Ventimiglia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or Ventimiglia?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bilbao than Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the authentic city of Bilbao. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the industrial destination of Bilbao. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

The colorful city of Bilbao offers museums and nightlife. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

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

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Bilbao. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside town 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Ventimiglia?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia in the Summer?

Both Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

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

In July, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Ventimiglia. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bilbao or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

Both Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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

Ventimiglia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. Bilbao usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Ventimiglia. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

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

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

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Ventimiglia during winter. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bilbao or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

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

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

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

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Bilbao usually gets more rain in April than Ventimiglia. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Bilbao