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

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a peaceful, historic, and charming university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. 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 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.

Saint Andrews and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bilbao than Saint Andrews, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bilbao is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Saint Andrews is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Andrews is well known for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. 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 Saint Andrews different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

Bilbao is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Andrews. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

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 Saint Andrews or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its evening party scene.

Bilbao offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Saint Andrews or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews is a good destination for the beache. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Saint Andrews offers a nice beach destination. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

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

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

Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Andrews or Bilbao Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Saint Andrews offers some nice hiking trails. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

Both Saint Andrews and Bilbao are great shopping destinations.

Saint Andrews is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bilbao. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Is Saint Andrews or Bilbao Better for Families?

Saint Andrews and Bilbao are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly place to visit. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Bilbao is a family-friendly university town. 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 Saint Andrews or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Saint Andrews frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Bilbao is a good university 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 Saint Andrews or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.

Is Saint Andrews or Bilbao Better for Students?

Saint Andrews is an amazing university town to visit for students. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

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

Bilbao is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Saint Andrews has some public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Is Saint Andrews or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews and Bilbao both are notable when exploring on foot.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bilbao than Saint Andrews 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.

One day in Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the authentic destination of Bilbao. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

Saint Andrews 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bilbao. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the industrial destination of Bilbao. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

Saint Andrews is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This university town 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 museums and nightlife around the city of Bilbao. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, 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 Saint Andrews and Bilbao, we can see that Saint Andrews is more expensive. And not only is Bilbao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bilbao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bilbao 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 Saint Andrews would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint Andrews than you might in Bilbao.

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Bilbao?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Bilbao. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Andrews is cooler than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bilbao during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Bilbao. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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.

In the autumn, Saint Andrews is much colder than Bilbao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Andrews in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Bilbao averages at about 16°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Bilbao. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews can be very cold during winter. In January, Saint Andrews is generally much colder than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 3°C (38°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 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, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Saint Andrews during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

Saint Andrews is much colder than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Saint Andrews gets 155 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. Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Saint Andrews