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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

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 Chiang Mai and Bilbao. 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.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a natural, temple-filled, and laid-back city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a friendly, industrial, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Chiang Mai and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Bilbao. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Bilbao and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Bilbao is famous for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Chiang Mai different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chiang Mai are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

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.

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

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

Eat your way through Chiang Mai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

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 Chiang Mai or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Chiang Mai and Bilbao.

The nightlife in Chiang Mai has something for everybody. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai. The old city is about 1.5 square kilometers in size and it has four gates, one on each side. The most famous area is Sunday Walking Street, which comes to life at 4pm every day when it is lined with stalls and filled with people.

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 Chiang Mai or Bilbao Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Chiang Mai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Chiang Mai make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Bilbao Better for Families?

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

Chiang Mai is a very kid-friendly city. This city is very friendly and welcoming to kids. There are many cultural and adventurous activities that the whole family can enjoy. One of the most popular kid-friendly places to visit is the Elephant Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with these beautiful animals. Kids will also enjoy heading into the countryside to trek or visit one of Thailand’s Hilltribes. The cultural experience and opportunity to meet a diversity of kids will be an experience your children will never forget. In town, a cooking class is a popular option for budding foodies.

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 Chiang Mai or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Chiang Mai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Trekking, rafting, temples, and some of the best food in Thailand all make this city a popular destination for a couple's getaway. The region is perfect for adventurous couples who want to experience more of the authentic side of Thailand.

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 Chiang Mai or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Chiang Mai. This is one of the biggest backpacker mecca's in Southeast Asia, and you'll find the city flooded with budget travelers out to experience it all. There are countless hostels and budget hotels available and most will organize treks and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and many visitors end up staying longer than they planned. Prices in Northern Thailand are also much more affordable than many other areas.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bilbao is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Bilbao. This is a popular study abroad destination with many great museums and educational opportunities for international students.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Bilbao is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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

Chiang Mai has a few public transit options. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Is Chiang Mai or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Bilbao are nice when it comes to walkability.

Chiang Mai is somewhat walkable. Although there are a few walking streets, the city can get very crowded and many places are easier to access with a tuk tuk or taxi.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chiang Mai and Bilbao. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than in Bilbao. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai.

One day in Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the colorful city of Bilbao, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

Chiang Mai 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.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Bilbao, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bilbao, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Bilbao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Mai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Chiang Mai is in Asia and Bilbao is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Chiang Mai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Bilbao?

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

Bilbao has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Chiang Mai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Bilbao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Bilbao. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Bilbao averages at about 20°C (68°F).

In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Bilbao. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Bilbao. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Chiang Mai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bilbao in the winter for the museums and the shopping scene.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Bilbao in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun.

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Bilbao. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Bilbao. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bilbao for the activities around the city during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Bilbao averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun in the spring.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Chiang Mai