A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Bilbao for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Bilbao can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a authentic, vibrant, and historic 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.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a colorful, friendly, and industrial 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.

Thiva (Thebes) and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bilbao than Thiva (Thebes), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bilbao is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Thiva (Thebes) is more popular for its food. Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. 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 Thiva (Thebes) different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Thiva (Thebes) and Bilbao.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bilbao. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes). It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Bilbao is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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 Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Bilbao is a city with good options for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Bilbao is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Bilbao are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Bilbao is a city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Bilbao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Bilbao is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Bilbao is a city with good options for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Bilbao is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Thiva (Thebes) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses in the area.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bilbao

Thiva (Thebes) and Bilbao both are notable when exploring on foot.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable place. Some areas are more walkable than others.

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 Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

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

Couples should spend more time in Bilbao than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Bilbao 2-3

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bilbao, you'll find nightlife and shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Bilbao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bilbao. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Bilbao. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Bilbao or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Bilbao in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Bilbao 72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Bilbao 144
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Bilbao

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes)


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: Bilbao Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Bilbao 26

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

Prices for flights to both Bilbao and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    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.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Bilbao 29

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
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Bilbao Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Bilbao 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Thiva (Thebes) during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bilbao in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 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. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Bilbao 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Bilbao. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bilbao for the museums and the shopping scene during these months.

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

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 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, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Bilbao 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Bilbao. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the activities around the city.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Bilbao 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Bilbao
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 12°C (54°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (62°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)