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

Should you visit Bilbao or Volterra?

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 Volterra. 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.

Volterra

Volterra is a medieval, cultural, and historic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Bilbao and Volterra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bilbao or Volterra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bilbao. Although Bilbao and Volterra are popular destinations, Bilbao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bilbao is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Volterra attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, small town charm, 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. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Bilbao different from Volterra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Volterra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a large town there are a huge number of historic sights packed into a small area. Check out the Roman Theater, the Etruscan Museum, and the Duomo.

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

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

Eat your way through Volterra, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town is surrounded by the region of truffles, so you'll find this item included in all kinds of recipes. Pumpkin sauce is also a specialty of the area and there are also many local cheeses. Many restaurants also have bruschetta as an appetizer.

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 Volterra Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is well known for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Volterra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are cozy bars and cafes where you can sip wine and soak up the atmosphere, but the town isn't known as a nightlife destination.

Is Bilbao or Volterra Better for its Old Town?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its old town. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Volterra offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The walled town is perched on a hilltop and dates back to the 8th century BC. Visitors come specifically to explore its winding streets and stunning setting.

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 Volterra?

Bilbao is well known for shopping. Also, Volterra 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 Volterra. Some of the streets are lined with boutique shops and one of the most popular things to buy in town is Alabaster. You'll also find plenty of Italian wine from the nearby vineyards.

Is Bilbao or Volterra Better for Families?

Both Bilbao and Volterra are nice 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.

Volterra offers lots of family activities. If you have a Twilight fan, this town is home to the Volturi, who are the royal family of vampires. For everyone else, its a charming town with medieval walls and wandering alleys that kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Bilbao or Volterra Better for Couples?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Volterra is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's unique atmosphere, amazing food, and medieval style make for a unique and world class couples destination. While many people visit as a day trip, you can spend the night and soak up the evening atmosphere as well.

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 Volterra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bilbao and Volterra 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 Volterra. There's only one or two hostels in town, so if you're looking for a more social backpacker setting, then this may not be your spot. It does make for a great day trip though and if you're more interested in culture than meeting other backpackers, then definitely stop by.

Is Bilbao or Volterra Better for Students?

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

Volterra is not popular with students.

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

Bilbao is well known for its public transit. However, Volterra is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bilbao. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Volterra. Public transit isn't necessary as the city is best explored on foot.

Is Bilbao or Volterra a more walkable city?

Volterra is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Volterra on foot is easy. Most people explore the town 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 Volterra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Volterra or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or Volterra?

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

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

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

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

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.

Volterra 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 Volterra?

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.

Volterra is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Volterra?

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 Volterra. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Volterra?

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.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bilbao and Volterra, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Volterra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Volterra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Volterra 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 Bilbao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bilbao than you might in Volterra.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bilbao Expensive? and Is Volterra Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Volterra?

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

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 Volterra in the Summer?

Both Volterra 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 Volterra for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bilbao is generally cooler than Volterra. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 20°C (68°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

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

In July, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Volterra. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bilbao or Volterra in the Autumn?

Both Volterra 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. Also, many visitors come to Volterra in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bilbao is around the same temperature as Volterra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bilbao averages around 16°C (62°F) in October, and Volterra fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Bilbao gets 125 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 177 hours of full sun.

Volterra 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 Volterra. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or Volterra in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Bilbao is a little warmer than Volterra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bilbao in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Volterra averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Volterra during winter. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies, while Volterra receives 105 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 Volterra. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bilbao or Volterra in the Spring?

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

In April, Bilbao is generally around the same temperature as Volterra. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 12°C (54°F), and Volterra fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Volterra. Bilbao gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volterra receives 192 hours of full sun.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Bilbao usually gets more rain in April than Volterra. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Volterra receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Volterra and Bilbao