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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a historical, vibrant, and high energy port city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a authentic, colorful, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bilbao than Newcastle upon Tyne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bilbao is more popular for its big city activities, while Newcastle upon Tyne is known for its food and historical sights. Newcastle upon Tyne is popular for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao?

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Bilbao and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

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 the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bilbao. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao are both good destinations for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for students. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

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

Visitors will find high quality public transit in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao.

Newcastle upon Tyne offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an amazing port city 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 Newcastle upon Tyne on foot is easy. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao. In our opinion, Newcastle upon Tyne has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Bilbao. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Bilbao, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this destination offers. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Many people visit Bilbao for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bilbao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

The destination of Bilbao offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the livable destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bilbao. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

When comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao, we can see that Newcastle upon Tyne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Newcastle upon Tyne during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 15°C (59°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Bilbao. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Bilbao. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bilbao. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Bilbao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Bilbao. The winter months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold. In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Bilbao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Bilbao averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Bilbao. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Bilbao. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the activities around the city.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally much colder than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 7°C (45°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 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. In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Newcastle upon Tyne