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

Should you visit Reims or Bilbao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reims 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.

Reims

Reims is a cultural, beautiful, and relaxing city. 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Reims and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Reims or Bilbao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bilbao than Reims, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bilbao is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Reims is known for its food and impressive beauty. Reims is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. 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 Reims different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Reims
Bilbao

Bilbao is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Reims is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Sights around town include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, Palais du Tau, Basilique Saint-Rémi, and Musée des Beaux-Arts.


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

Reims
Bilbao

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

Eat your way through Reims, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. While its famous for its Champagne, the city also has Michelin starred restaurants, local produce, and an amazing regional cuisine. The region is known for its ham, cheese, mustard, and truffles.

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 Reims or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Reims
Bilbao

Bilbao is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Reims has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is relaxing but active. Most locals hang out with friends at local bars near Place Drouet d'Erlon or the Rue Chanzy area. Bars have a combination of local beers and Champagne.

Is Reims or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Reims
Bilbao

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Reims does not have a historic old town.

Bilbao offers a nice historic old town area. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Reims does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Reims or Bilbao?

Reims
Bilbao

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bilbao and Reims.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Reims. You'll find not only Champagne, but also jewellry, designer fashion, and chocolate. The best shopping is located around the Place Drouet d'Erlon which is a pedestrian area. Also check out the shopping streets of Rue de Vesle and Cours Langlet.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bilbao. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Is Reims or Bilbao Better for Families?

Reims
Bilbao

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Reims is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Reims is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the historical city center or visiting the Palace of Tau. For a unique activity, view the region from above with a hot air balloon ride.

Is Reims or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Reims
Bilbao

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

Reims is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This romantic area is perfect for couples who enjoy wine and history. There is beautiful architecture as well as wine tours and breathtaking hot air balloon rides. Visiting the Champagne Houses is a must for any couple visiting the area.

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 Reims or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Reims
Bilbao

Reims and Bilbao are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Reims. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

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

Is Reims or Bilbao Better for Students?

Reims
Bilbao

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

Reims is not popular with students.

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

Reims
Bilbao

Bilbao is well known for its public transit. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Bilbao offers a very effecient public transportation network. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

While Reims offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. In town there are buses and trams, but to get into the countryside you'll need your own car.


Is Reims or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Reims
Bilbao

Reims 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.

Reims is a very walkable city. You can explore the city on foot and reach many local Champagne Houses. If you really want to explore everything in depth, you'll need a car.

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 Reims Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Reims?

How long in Reims or Bilbao?

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

Families should spend more time in Bilbao than Reims. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bilbao than Reims 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 Reims or Bilbao? Ideal Length of Stay
    Reims 2-5 
    Bilbao 2-3

One day in Reims or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reims. 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 Reims or Bilbao?

Reims is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. 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 Reims or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reims. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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.

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 Reims or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Reims. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Bilbao or Reims?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Reims is €131, 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 Reims and Bilbao in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Reims 66
    Bilbao 72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Reims 132
    Bilbao 144
Compare Hotels in Reims and Bilbao

Looking for a hotel in Reims 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 Reims


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: Reims Hotel Prices and Bilbao Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Reims 39
    Bilbao 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reims

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Reims:

  • From Transfer and Drive Through the Champagne Region: $856
  • Private Transfer From Reims To Paris, 2 Hour Stop in Epernay: $227

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bilbao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bilbao:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bilbao airport BIO to Bilbao City by Business Car: $60
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bilbao airport BIO to Bilbao City by Luxury Van: $80
  • Bilbao Airport Private Arrival Transfer to Various Cities : $45
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Business Car: $50
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Luxury Car: $70
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers : Bilbao City to Bilbao Airport BIO in Luxury Van: $66
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers to Pamplona: $417
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers to San Sebastian: $315
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers to Santander: $315
  • Bilbao Airport Transfers to Vitoria-Gasteiz: $209
  • Bilbao Airport to the Basque Country: Private Transfers: $91
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bilbao City to Bilbao airport BIO by Luxury Van: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Reims or Bilbao?

Prices for flights to both Bilbao and Reims 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
    Reims 40
    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.
    Reims 19
    Bilbao 29

Tours and Activities in Reims

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Reims Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.95
  • Guided Tour of Cathedral of Notre Dame de Reims: $9.62
  • Reims UNESCO site: Basilica of Saint-Remi Guided Tour: $9.62
  • Reims Art Deco guided tour: $9.62
  • Reims Cathedral of Notre Dame Guided Tour: $9.83
  • Reims : city-center discovery tour and champagne tasting: $16
  • Discovery tour (2 tastings): $20
  • Entrance ticket to Pressoria in the heart of Champagne with Tasting: $20
  • Champagne Guy De Chassey: Traditional Tour & Tasting: $27

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
    Reims 22
    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 comparing the travel costs between Reims and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao 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 Reims Expensive? and Is Bilbao Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Reims or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 79% larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Reims 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 Reims 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 Reims or Bilbao in the Summer?

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

In July, Reims is generally around the same temperature as Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 19°C (65°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Reims. Reims usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Reims gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Reims usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bilbao. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Reims 19°C (65°F) 
    Bilbao 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Reims or Bilbao in the Autumn?

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

Reims is cooler than Bilbao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Reims averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Reims often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bilbao. Reims gets 122 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. Reims usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Reims 12°C (53°F) 
    Bilbao 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Reims or Bilbao in the Winter?

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

Reims can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Reims is much colder than Bilbao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Reims in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Bilbao averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Reims usually receives less sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Reims gets 50 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, Reims usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Reims gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Reims 3°C (37°F) 
    Bilbao 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Reims or Bilbao in the Spring?

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

In April, Reims is generally cooler than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 9°C (49°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Reims often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Reims gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Reims usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Reims gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Reims 9°C (49°F) 
    Bilbao 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Reims

Reims Bilbao
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Apr 9°C (49°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
May 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in) 16°C (62°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)