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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur 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.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a historic, modern, and welcoming city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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 nightlife.

Bilbao

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

Kuala Lumpur and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kuala Lumpur than Bilbao. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bilbao attracts visitors for its historical sights. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Bilbao and is popular for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also well known for The Petronas Twin Towers. Bilbao is famous for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur are among the most recognizable in the world. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kuala Lumpur and Bilbao.

Kuala Lumpur has a large number of nightlife venues. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Bilbao is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

Bilbao is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao Better for Families?

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

Kuala Lumpur is a very kid-friendly city. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Kuala Lumpur frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place to visit for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city 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 Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Kuala Lumpur is top-notch. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bilbao. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable city. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

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 Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kuala Lumpur and Bilbao. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than in Bilbao. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

Kuala Lumpur is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bilbao, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this industrial city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

Kuala Lumpur 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 fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kuala Lumpur. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the industrial destination of Bilbao. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly big city of Kuala Lumpur. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bilbao is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, 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 Kuala Lumpur and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur.

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

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao?

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

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Kuala Lumpur during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

In the summer, Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Bilbao averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Kuala Lumpur. In the summer, Kuala Lumpur often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bilbao. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in July than Bilbao. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Bilbao. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Bilbao. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the winter for the museums and the shopping scene.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Bilbao in the winter. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the winter. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in January than Bilbao. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Bilbao averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 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. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In April, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Kuala Lumpur