A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Cadiz vs. Bilbao for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Cadiz or Bilbao?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cadiz and Bilbao can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a historic, authentic, and friendly port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a industrial, authentic, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Cadiz and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cadiz or Bilbao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bilbao than Cadiz. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bilbao is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Cadiz attracts visitors for its food, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Bilbao is more touristy than Cadiz and is known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. It is also well known for The Guggenheim Museum. Cadiz is famous for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Cadiz different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bilbao and Cadiz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cadiz or Bilbao?

Bilbao is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Cadiz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.

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

Cadiz is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cadiz. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

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 Cadiz or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Bilbao offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Is Cadiz or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

Cadiz is a port city with a few options for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Cadiz. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Cadiz or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz 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 Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

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 Cadiz or Bilbao?

Both Cadiz and Bilbao are very good shopping destinations.

Cadiz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

Bilbao is well-known for its shopping. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Is Cadiz or Bilbao Better for Families?

Both Cadiz and Bilbao are nice to visit with kids.

Cadiz is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.

Bilbao is a family-friendly port city. 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 Cadiz or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Both Cadiz and Bilbao are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cadiz is a nice destination for couples. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

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.

Is Cadiz or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Cadiz and Bilbao are nice destinations for backpackers.

Cadiz is a good port city to visit for backpackers. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

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.

Is Cadiz or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bilbao is a city with good options for students. However, Cadiz is not popular with students.

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

Cadiz is not popular with students.

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

Bilbao is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bilbao is fairly effecient and thorough. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Cadiz has some public transit options. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

Is Cadiz or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Cadiz 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.

Cadiz is a very walkable port city. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

Bilbao is a somewhat walkable port city. It's a fairly walkable city with several pedestrian-friendly areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Cadiz Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cadiz and Bilbao. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bilbao than in Cadiz. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cadiz, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

One day in Cadiz or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cadiz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bilbao, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this industrial destination offers. 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.

A weekend in Cadiz or Bilbao?

Cadiz 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.

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.

Five days in Cadiz or Bilbao?

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

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

A week in Cadiz or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Cadiz. This port 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.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cadiz. When comparing the sizes of Cadiz and Bilbao, 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 Cadiz or Bilbao?

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 Cadiz or Bilbao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Bilbao. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cadiz is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cadiz in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Bilbao averages at about 20°C (68°F).

In Cadiz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cadiz or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Bilbao. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Cadiz is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 20°C (68°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In the autumn, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Cadiz usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cadiz or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cadiz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the museums and the shopping scene during these months.

Cadiz is a little warmer than Bilbao in the winter. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. In January, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cadiz or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Cadiz during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cadiz for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cadiz is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cadiz in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Bilbao averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. In the spring, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cadiz usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Cadiz