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

Should you visit Hydra or Bilbao?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Bilbao? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hydra

Hydra is a quaint, picturesque, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Bilbao

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

Hydra and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Bilbao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Bilbao are popular destinations, Hydra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hydra is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bilbao attracts visitors for its nightlife and big city activities. Hydra is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also well known for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Bilbao is famous for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Hydra different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Hydra and Bilbao have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hydra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

Many visitors head to Bilbao specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Hydra or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hydra 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 Hydra. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

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 Hydra or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Bilbao know how to have a good time. 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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Bilbao Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a good destination for its resorts. However, Bilbao is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Hydra makes a nice vacation spot. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Bilbao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a good destination for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Hydra offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Hydra 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 Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its 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 Hydra or Bilbao Better for Hiking?

Hydra is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Bilbao?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bilbao and Hydra.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

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 Hydra or Bilbao Better for Families?

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

Hydra is a very kid-friendly island. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

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 Hydra or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Hydra is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

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 Hydra or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bilbao is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bilbao is a popular place for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Bilbao is a great destination for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bilbao. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Hydra is an amazing island to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Hydra on foot is easy. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

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 Hydra Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Bilbao?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bilbao than Hydra 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 Bilbao.

One day in Hydra or Bilbao?

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Hydra or Bilbao?

Hydra 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 Hydra or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Hydra or Bilbao?

Hydra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 friendly 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 Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, 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 Hydra and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Hydra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hydra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hydra 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 Hydra.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Bilbao averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Hydra because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

In October, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Hydra gets 206 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. Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Bilbao. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bilbao for the museums and the shopping scene.

Hydra is a little warmer than Bilbao in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Hydra gets 143 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, Hydra usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Bilbao. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Bilbao in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Hydra is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bilbao averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Hydra