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

Should you visit Paphos or Bilbao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Bilbao, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Paphos

Paphos is a cultural, coastal, and overlooked town. 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 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.

Paphos and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Bilbao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Bilbao are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Bilbao attracts visitors for its nightlife and big city activities. Paphos is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Bilbao is famous for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Paphos different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paphos is an amazing town 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 Paphos are among the most recognizable in the world. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

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 Paphos or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

Eat your way through Paphos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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 Paphos or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Paphos has a few options to choose from. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

Is Paphos or Bilbao Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Paphos for its luxury resorts. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Bilbao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos 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 Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

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

Paphos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Paphos and Bilbao both have nice historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Paphos to see the historical old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Bilbao. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Bilbao?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bilbao and Paphos.

Paphos is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

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 Paphos or Bilbao Better for Families?

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

Paphos is a very kid-friendly town. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

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 Paphos or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Paphos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

Bilbao is a good 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 Paphos or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Paphos is a great town to visit for backpackers. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

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 Paphos or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for students. However, Paphos 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.

Paphos is not popular with students.

Is Paphos 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 Paphos and Bilbao.

Visitors to Paphos can move around easily with public transportation. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

The public transit in Bilbao can get you around easily. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Is Paphos or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Paphos and Bilbao both are nice when exploring on foot.

Paphos is somewhat walkable. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Bilbao?

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

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

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

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

One day in Paphos or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Paphos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bilbao. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Bilbao?

Paphos is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Bilbao 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.

Five days in Paphos or Bilbao?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bilbao. 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.

A week in Paphos or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Paphos. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, 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 Paphos and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Paphos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Paphos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Paphos 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 Paphos.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos 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 Paphos 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 Paphos or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Bilbao averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Paphos gets 270 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. Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Bilbao. Most visitors come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the museums and the shopping scene.

Paphos is a little warmer than Bilbao in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Paphos gets 180 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, Paphos usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Bilbao. The spring months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Bilbao averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Paphos