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

Should you visit Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a historic, charming, and authentic town. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a industrial, authentic, and colorful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Piazza Armerina and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bilbao than Piazza Armerina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bilbao is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Piazza Armerina is more popular for its food and historical sights. Piazza Armerina is well known for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale. Bilbao is well known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. Also, Bilbao is famous for The Guggenheim Museum.

How is Piazza Armerina different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Piazza Armerina and Bilbao.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Piazza Armerina. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

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 Piazza Armerina or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

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 Piazza Armerina or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Bilbao is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

Bilbao has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Piazza Armerina or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

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 Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Bilbao is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bilbao is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Piazza Armerina or Bilbao Better for Families?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Bilbao is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Bilbao is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Piazza Armerina or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Piazza Armerina and Bilbao both notable destinations for a couple.

Piazza Armerina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

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 Piazza Armerina or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Bilbao is a good destination for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bilbao. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and a good social scene that makes it easy to meet other backpackers.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

Is Piazza Armerina or Bilbao Better for Students?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Bilbao is a good destination for students. However, Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.

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

Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.

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

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Bilbao is notable for its public transit. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Bilbao has some very good public transit options. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Piazza Armerina has some public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.


Is Piazza Armerina or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Piazza Armerina
Bilbao

Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable town. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Piazza Armerina?

How long in Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Piazza Armerina or Bilbao? Ideal Length of Stay
    Piazza Armerina 1-2 
    Bilbao 2-3

One day in Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Piazza Armerina. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The colorful destination of Bilbao offers shopping and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

Piazza Armerina 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.

The city of Bilbao offers museums and nightlife. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

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

Bilbao is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the charming destination of Piazza Armerina. This town 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 shopping and museums when visiting Bilbao. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Bilbao or Piazza Armerina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Piazza Armerina is €93, while the average daily cost in Bilbao is €137. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Piazza Armerina and Bilbao in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Piazza Armerina 56
    Bilbao 72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Piazza Armerina 112
    Bilbao 144
Compare Hotels in Piazza Armerina and Bilbao

Looking for a hotel in Piazza Armerina or Bilbao? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Piazza Armerina


Hotels in Bilbao


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices and Bilbao Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Bilbao 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bilbao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bilbao:

  • Private One way Airport Transfer Bilbao Airport to from Bilbao: $33
  • Private transfer from Bilbao City Center to Bilbao Airport (BIO): $33
  • Private transfer from Bilbao Airport (BIO) to Bilbao City Center: $33
  • Bilbao Airport Private Arrival Transfer to Various Cities : $45
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Business Car: $50
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Business Car: $50
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bilbao airport BIO to Bilbao City by Business Car: $60
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Luxury Van: $66
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Luxury Van: $66
  • Private one way arrival OR departure transfer in Bilbao from/to airport: $67
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Luxury Car: $70
  • Private Transfer on arrival and departure in Bilbao: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

Prices for flights to both Bilbao and Piazza Armerina change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Piazza Armerina 33
    Bilbao 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bilbao

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bilbao.

  • Basque Food Tour with Guide: $86
  • The Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairings: $102
  • Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao : $109
  • Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class with Open Bar: $112
  • The Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairing: $115
  • Basque Flavours: High End Food Tour of Bilbao with a Local: $120
  • Paella Cooking Class with Sangria in Bilbao: $134
  • Private Food Tour, Food Lovers with Tastings: $134
  • Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao: $142
  • Traditional Basque Cooking Class with Wine Tasting: $155
  • Guggenheim Museum Visit & Private Walking Food Tour: $197

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Bilbao 29

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Piazza Armerina are as follows:

  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241

Tours and Activities in Bilbao

Here are a few actual costs in Bilbao for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bilbao Cathedral and San Anton Church Entry Ticket: $4.28
  • Bilbao Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour: $7.48
  • VITORIA DE LEGEND night tour: $11
  • Bilbao Confidential Tour: Industrialists and Bourgeois: $13
  • 1- or 2-Hour Sightseeing Boat Tour: $15
  • Tour of the Great Villas in Getxo and Hanging Bridge: $16
  • Bilbao tour: $17
  • San Mamés Museum and Stadium Tour: $18
  • Bilbao Estuary and Abra Bay Boat Tour: $20
  • Bilbao Historical Small Group Tour : $28
  • Walking tour of Bilbao with pintxo and drink: $31
  • Private Kayak Tour along the Getxo Coast and Hanging Bridge: $34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Piazza Armerina 13
    Bilbao 21

Sample the Local Flavors in Bilbao

Also in Bilbao, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Bilbao: $25
  • Immersive Evening Spanish Wine Tasting w/ Sommelier: $53
  • Spanish Wine Tasting with Sommelier (close to Guggenheim museum): $54
  • Pintxos and Wine Tasting Tour with Local Guide: $79
  • Txakoli, Gaztelugatxe, & Urdaibai with wine tasting: $80
  • Guided tour of Txakoli wine tasting and tasting of wine and typical products: $148
  • Bilbao Txakoli Wine Tour: $176
  • Guided Txacoli Wine Tasting: $187
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Vitoria: $240
  • From Rioja Architecture and Wine Tour: $241
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Bilbao: $246
  • Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao : $246


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Piazza Armerina and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Piazza Armerina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Piazza Armerina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina.

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


Which is Bigger, Piazza Armerina or Bilbao?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Piazza Armerina and Bilbao. The summer months attract visitors to Piazza Armerina because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Piazza Armerina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Piazza Armerina gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Piazza Armerina gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F) 
    Bilbao 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Piazza Armerina as well as Bilbao. Additionally, many travelers come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Piazza Armerina in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Bilbao averages at about 16°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Piazza Armerina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Piazza Armerina gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F) 
    Bilbao 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Piazza Armerina for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the winter for the museums and the shopping scene.

In January, Piazza Armerina is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Piazza Armerina average around 10°C (51°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Piazza Armerina gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. In January, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Piazza Armerina gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F) 
    Bilbao 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Piazza Armerina during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the activities around the city during these months.

Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Piazza Armerina. In the spring, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Piazza Armerina gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Piazza Armerina gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F) 
    Bilbao 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina Bilbao
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (62°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)