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

Should you visit Utrecht or Bilbao?

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

Should I visit Utrecht or Bilbao? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a industrial, authentic, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Utrecht and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Utrecht or Bilbao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bilbao than Utrecht. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bilbao is very popular for its museums and big city activities, while Utrecht attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Utrecht is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. Bilbao is famous for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. It is also well known for The Guggenheim Museum.

How is Utrecht different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

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.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

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

Utrecht 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 Utrecht. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

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 Utrecht or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Both Utrecht and Bilbao are superb when it comes to partying.

Utrecht offers plenty to do in the evening. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

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.

Is Utrecht or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Utrecht is an amazing to visit for its old town. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Utrecht offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

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 Utrecht or Bilbao?

Both Utrecht and Bilbao are superb shopping destinations.

Utrecht is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

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.

Is Utrecht or Bilbao Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Utrecht or Bilbao.

Utrecht is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Bilbao is a family-friendly . 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 Utrecht or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Utrecht frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

Bilbao is a good 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 Utrecht or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Utrecht is well known for backpackers. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Utrecht is a great to visit for backpackers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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

Is Utrecht or Bilbao Better for Students?

Utrecht is well known for students. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Utrecht. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

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

Both Utrecht and Bilbao offer superb public transit options.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Utrecht. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

Public transit in Bilbao can get you to some places easily. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Is Utrecht or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Utrecht is an amazing to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Utrecht on foot is easy. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Utrecht and Bilbao. In our opinion, Utrecht has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Utrecht than Bilbao. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Utrecht, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

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

One day in Utrecht or Bilbao?

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

In Bilbao, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Utrecht or Bilbao?

Utrecht 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.

In Bilbao, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bilbao has to offer.

Five days in Utrecht or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Utrecht. 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. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Utrecht or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the canal-filled destination of Utrecht. This 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bilbao. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bilbao. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands, 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 Utrecht and Bilbao, we can see that Utrecht 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 Utrecht would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Utrecht 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 Utrecht Expensive? and Is Bilbao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Utrecht. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht 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 Utrecht 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 Utrecht or Bilbao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Bilbao. Most visitors come to Utrecht for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Utrecht is cooler than Bilbao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Utrecht in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Bilbao averages at about 20°C (68°F).

Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bilbao during summer. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Bilbao. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Utrecht or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Bilbao. The autumn months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

In October, Utrecht is generally much colder than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 11°C (51°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Utrecht usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Utrecht or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the museums and the shopping scene.

It's quite cold in Utrecht in the winter. Utrecht is much colder than Bilbao in the winter. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Utrecht gets 38 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, Utrecht usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Utrecht 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 Utrecht or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Utrecht during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Utrecht for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bilbao in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Utrecht is much colder than Bilbao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Utrecht in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Bilbao averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Utrecht often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Utrecht gets 156 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. Utrecht usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Utrecht