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

Should you visit Cagliari or Bilbao?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cagliari and Bilbao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a historic, under-rated, and laid back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a authentic, colorful, and friendly 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.

Cagliari and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Bilbao?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cagliari than Bilbao. While Bilbao is larger than Cagliari, Cagliari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is better known for its food, beaches, and historical sights, while Bilbao is more popular for its shopping. Cagliari is well known for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. Also, Cagliari is famous for Castello. Bilbao is well known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Cagliari different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Cagliari and Bilbao.

Many visitors head to Cagliari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bilbao can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cagliari. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

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 Cagliari or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cagliari and Bilbao.

Cagliari has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

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.

Is Cagliari or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Cagliari for it's beautiful beaches. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Cagliari or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari 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 Cagliari. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique 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 Cagliari or Bilbao?

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

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.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to go shopping. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

Is Cagliari or Bilbao Better for Families?

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

Cagliari is a very kid-friendly city. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

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 Cagliari or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Cagliari frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

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 Cagliari or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cagliari and Bilbao are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Cagliari is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bilbao. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and a good social scene that makes it easy to meet other backpackers.

Is Cagliari or Bilbao Better for Students?

Both Cagliari and Bilbao are notable destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Cagliari. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

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

Is Cagliari or Bilbao 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, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Cagliari or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is a very walkable city. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

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 Cagliari Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Bilbao?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cagliari or Bilbao?

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

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.

A weekend in Cagliari or Bilbao?

Cagliari 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.

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.

Five days in Cagliari or Bilbao?

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

A week in Cagliari or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Cagliari. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari 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 Cagliari or Bilbao?

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 Cagliari or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Cagliari during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cagliari is a little warmer than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. In the summer, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in July than Bilbao. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Bilbao. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cagliari is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cagliari in October average around 18°C (65°F), and Bilbao averages at about 16°C (62°F).

Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cagliari or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Bilbao. The winter months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

In January, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 10°C (50°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Cagliari usually gets less rain in January than Bilbao. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the activities around the city.

Cagliari is a little warmer than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. In April, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Cagliari