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

Should you visit Lagos 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 Lagos 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.

Lagos

Lagos is a vibrant, beautiful, and scenic resort town. 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 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.

Lagos and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lagos or Bilbao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Bilbao are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bilbao attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Lagos is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Bilbao is famous for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Lagos different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bilbao is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bilbao. 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.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lagos is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lagos. The city offers some of the best food in the Algarve. The old town has plenty of restaurants that are both affordable and high quality. Seafood is the obvious choice, but you'll also find tapas, paellas, and local dishes such as cataplana (a seafood and chorizo stew). Most restaurants serve up a local fish of the day as well as prawns and other seafood items.

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 Lagos or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

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

Lagos is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a mellow vibe, even at night, but that's not to say there aren't good parties going on, particularly during the peak of the travel season. There's a local charm to the nightlife scene here and you'll likely start to recognize other party-goers. Many of the bars are housed in character-filled old buildings which can feel a bit cramped, but that's all part of the charm.

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 Lagos or Bilbao Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Lagos for its luxury resorts. As a resort town, you'll find no shortage of places to stay in the area. If you don't have a car, your best options are in the historic center. If transportation isn't a concern, then you'll find plenty of great resorts in the Marina, Meia Praia, Dona Ana Beach, Camilo Beach, and Porto de Mós Beach.

Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Is Lagos or Bilbao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos 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 Lagos. With its unique rock formations and caves, there are many spots where you can snorkel or scuba dive nearby. There's also sparkling blue waters and plenty of marine life including lobster, shrimp, anemones, octopuses, and brightly colored fish.

Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

Lagos is an amazing resort town to visit for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Lagos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are long, flat and sandy with beautifully dramatic rock formations. The largest beach in the area is Meia Praia and arguably one of the best beaches is Praia Dona Ana. For convenience, Praia da Batata is the closest beach to town. Praia de Porto de Mós is one of the more quiet beaches, but it's still along a bus line. For beautiful nature head to either Praia dos Estudantes or Praia dos Pinheiros.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Bilbao to see the historical old town. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.

Is Lagos or Bilbao Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Lagos. The city makes an excellent base for exploring some of the nearby hikes and walks. Favorite places to hike include the famous Ponte de Piedade Trail, which is the last part of the multi-day Fisherman's Trail. It takes you by many beautiful rock formations and scenic viewpoints. Another scenic hike is The Alvor Walkways, which is a series of boardwalks through sand dunes.

Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Bilbao?

Bilbao is well known for shopping. Also, Lagos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Bilbao is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lagos. The town has a long history of local artisan crafts. You can head to the seafront promenade and find local traditional items such as ceramics, leather goods, and jewelry.

Is Lagos or Bilbao Better for Families?

Lagos is an amazing resort town 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, Lagos is very family-friendly. You can spend days hanging out on the beautiful beaches, but there are so many other activities that the whole family will enjoy. Explore the caves in kayaks, take surfing lessons, head for the zoo, or go dolphin watching. There are also plenty of playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants around town.

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 Lagos or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Lagos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The beaches and hotels in the area offer a truly romantic setting for couples, whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's weekend getaway. Spend some time on the beach or go kayaking through the caves. Get a spa treatment at a luxury hotel or go wine tasting through the countryside. You can also enjoy the beautiful sunsets on a sunset boat cruise while sipping a glass of local wine.

Bilbao is a good resort town 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 Lagos or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos is an amazing resort town 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 Lagos. The area is a favorite for backpackers who come to hang out on the beaches during the day or party late into the night after the sun goes down. There are plenty of hostels around town and many offer a social vibe where it's easy to meet other 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.

Is Lagos or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bilbao is a good destination for students. However, Lagos 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.

Lagos is not popular with students.

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

Bilbao is well known for its public transit. However, Lagos is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Bilbao can move around easily with public transportation. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lagos. The area has buses, but they are limited in where they go. There is also reduced service on weekends and holidays.

Is Lagos or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Bilbao is a good destination for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Lagos is not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to have a car as some areas are very hilly and many resorts are outside of town. Depending on your fitness level and motivation, you may be able to get by without a vehicle, but it is generally not recommended.

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Bilbao?

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

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

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

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

One day in Lagos or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lagos. 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 friendly 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 Lagos or Bilbao?

Lagos is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Lagos or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lagos. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Lagos or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Lagos. This resort town 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 authentic 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 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, 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 Lagos and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Lagos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lagos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lagos 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 Lagos.

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

Which is Bigger, Lagos or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos 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 Lagos 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 Lagos or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

In the summer, Lagos is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Bilbao averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite rainy in Lagos. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lagos or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Lagos during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lagos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Lagos is generally much warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Bilbao. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lagos or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Bilbao. Many travelers come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the winter for the museums and the shopping scene.

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

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lagos or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Bilbao. Many visitors come to Lagos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the activities around the city during these months.

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

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Lagos receives a lot of rain in the spring. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Bilbao. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Lagos