A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Corfu vs. Bilbao for Families, Couples, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Corfu or Bilbao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Bilbao, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Corfu

Corfu is a natural, breathtaking, and striking island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a friendly, industrial, and authentic 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.

Corfu and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Bilbao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Corfu than Bilbao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Corfu is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bilbao is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and big city activities. Corfu is more touristy than Bilbao and is popular for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. Also, Corfu is famous for Canal d'Amour. Bilbao is well known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Corfu different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bilbao is a great city for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eat your way through Corfu, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

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 Corfu or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Corfu and Bilbao.

The nightlife in Corfu has something for everybody. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

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 Corfu or Bilbao Better for Resorts?

Corfu is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. However, Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Corfu for its luxury resorts. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Is Corfu or Bilbao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Corfu. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

Corfu is an amazing island to visit for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Corfu offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Corfu or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Bilbao. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Is Corfu or Bilbao Better for Hiking?

Corfu is an amazing island to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Corfu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Bilbao?

If you're looking to go shopping, Corfu and Bilbao both offer plenty of great spots.

Corfu is well-known for its shopping. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bilbao. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Is Corfu or Bilbao Better for Families?

Corfu is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Corfu is very family-friendly. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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 Corfu or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Corfu is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Bilbao is a good island 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 Corfu or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corfu is well known for backpackers. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Corfu is a great island to visit for backpackers. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

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 Corfu or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Corfu 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.

Corfu is not popular with students.

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

Corfu and Bilbao both offer great public transit to get you around.

The public transit in Corfu can get you around easily. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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

Is Corfu or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Corfu 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.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Corfu and Bilbao. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than in Bilbao. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

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

One day in Corfu or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Corfu. 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.

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 Corfu or Bilbao?

Corfu is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. 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 Corfu or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. 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 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 Corfu or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the striking destination of Corfu. This island 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.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, 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 Corfu and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Corfu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Corfu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Corfu 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 Corfu.

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

Which is Bigger, Corfu or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Corfu. When comparing the sizes of Corfu 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 Corfu 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 Corfu or Bilbao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Bilbao. Many travelers come to Corfu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Corfu is a little warmer than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Corfu this time of the year. In the summer, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in July than Bilbao. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Corfu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

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

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Corfu gets 178 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 Corfu. In October, Corfu usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Corfu or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Corfu during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Corfu for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the museums and the shopping scene.

In January, Corfu is generally around the same temperature as Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 10°C (49°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Corfu gets 112 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Corfu. Corfu usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bilbao. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Bilbao. The spring months attract visitors to Corfu because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

Corfu is a little warmer than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Corfu gets 195 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, Corfu usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Corfu