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

Should you visit Hamburg 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 Hamburg and Bilbao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a vibrant, historic, and energetic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a colorful, friendly, and industrial city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Hamburg and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hamburg or Bilbao?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bilbao than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Bilbao, Bilbao has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bilbao is more popular for its historical sights and big city activities, while Hamburg is known for its food, music, and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Bilbao is popular for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. It is also home to The Guggenheim Museum.

How is Hamburg different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Hamburg or Bilbao.

Many visitors head to Hamburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous district is the port area, which has a number of cultural sights and a pedestrian trail. There are also many museums and architectural landmarks around town.

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 Hamburg or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hamburg 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 Hamburg. The city has a mix of cosmopolitan restaurants and traditional places where you can enjoy a classic German dish like currywurst or labskaus (a type of stew).

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 Hamburg or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Hamburg and Bilbao.

Hamburg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is often overlooked, but it's nightlife scene is actually among the best. There are techno concerts, music festivals, and nightclubs that appeal to all personalities.

Many people head to Bilbao for the nightlife scene. 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 Hamburg or Bilbao Better for Music?

Hamburg is an amazing port city to visit for its live music scene. However, Bilbao is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Hamburg The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Bilbao is not a live music destination.

Is Hamburg or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Bilbao is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Bilbao offers a nice historic old town area. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Bilbao?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bilbao and Hamburg.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hamburg. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

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

Is Hamburg or Bilbao Better for Families?

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

Hamburg is a very kid-friendly port city. The city has a surprising number of opportunities to see wildlife nearby including a zoo and a wildlife park just outside of town. The city also has great playgrounds that are fun for kids who need a break from sightseeing.

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 Hamburg or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Both Hamburg and Bilbao are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Hamburg is a good port city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in town include taking a boat ride or harbor cruise or grabbing a cocktail at one of the city's many bars.

Bilbao is a nice destination for couples. 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 Hamburg or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg and Bilbao are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hamburg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers overlook the city, but there are a number of good hostels and a relaxing vibe that makes for a nice visit.

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 Hamburg or Bilbao Better for Students?

Hamburg and Bilbao are good places to visit for students.

Hamburg is popular with students. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international 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.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hamburg and Bilbao.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Hamburg. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

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

Is Hamburg or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Hamburg 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.

Hamburg is a very walkable port city. Most tourist areas can easily be explored on foot.

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 Hamburg Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Bilbao?

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

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

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

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

One day in Hamburg or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Hamburg. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bilbao, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Hamburg or Bilbao?

Hamburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, 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.

In Bilbao, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bilbao has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hamburg or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural destination of Hamburg. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bilbao. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bilbao. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, 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 Hamburg and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Hamburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hamburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hamburg 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 Hamburg.

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

Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Bilbao?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg 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 Hamburg 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 Hamburg or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hamburg is generally cooler than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 17°C (62°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hamburg. Hamburg usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hamburg or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Hamburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Hamburg is much colder than Bilbao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Bilbao. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun.

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hamburg usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Bilbao. The winter months attract visitors to Hamburg 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.

The weather in Hamburg can be very cold. In the winter, Hamburg is much colder than Bilbao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Bilbao averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hamburg or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Bilbao. The natural beauty are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the activities around the city.

In April, Hamburg is generally much colder than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Hamburg often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Hamburg usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Hamburg