A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Bilbao for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Bilbao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a peaceful, park-filled, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. And you can't forget about the food and theater.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a authentic, colorful, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bilbao than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bilbao is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions, food, and small town charm. Bilbao is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. Also, Bilbao is famous for The Guggenheim Museum. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao?

Bilbao is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Bilbao specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is an amazing town to visit for its theatre productions. However, Bilbao is not a theatre destination.

Stratford-upon-Avon is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Bilbao is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Bilbao has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon and Bilbao are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Stratford-upon-Avon. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao?

Bilbao is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly town. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bilbao are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Stratford-upon-Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bilbao is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Bilbao is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and a good social scene that makes it easy to meet other backpackers.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bilbao is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bilbao is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon and Bilbao are notable when it comes to walkability.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable place. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bilbao than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao?

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

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the theater, 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.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Bilbao, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Bilbao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao in the Summer?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bilbao. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Bilbao. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bilbao. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Bilbao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Bilbao averages at about 16°C (62°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Bilbao. The winter months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

The weather in Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally much colder than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Bilbao. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in January than Bilbao. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the activities around the city.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 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, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Stratford-upon-Avon