A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Valencia vs. Bilbao for Nightlife, Old Town, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Valencia or Bilbao?

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

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

Valencia

Valencia is a cultural, historic, and architectural coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. 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.

Valencia and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Bilbao?

You'll generally find more things to do in Valencia than Bilbao. Valencia is bigger than Bilbao, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Valencia is more touristy than Bilbao and is known for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). Also, Valencia is famous for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Bilbao is well known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Valencia different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Valencia and Bilbao.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Valencia can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 Valencia or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Valencia, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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 Valencia or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Valencia has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

Many people head to Bilbao for the nightlife scene. 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 Valencia or Bilbao Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a good destination for its resorts. However, Bilbao is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Valencia makes a nice vacation spot. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Bilbao is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

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

Valencia offers a nice beach destination. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

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

Valencia offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

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 Valencia or Bilbao Better for Hiking?

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

Valencia offers some nice hiking trails. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Bilbao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Bilbao?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bilbao and Valencia.

Valencia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

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 Valencia or Bilbao Better for Families?

Valencia is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Valencia is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

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 Valencia or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Valencia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

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

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

Valencia is a great coastal city to visit for backpackers. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

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 Valencia or Bilbao Better for Students?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for students. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Valencia is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

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

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

Bilbao has some very good public transit options. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

Is Valencia or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Valencia 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.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal city. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Bilbao?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Valencia 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 Valencia.

One day in Valencia or Bilbao?

Valencia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Bilbao offers nightlife and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Valencia or Bilbao?

Valencia 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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 Valencia or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. 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 popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Valencia or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the architectural big city of Valencia. This coastal city 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.

Bilbao is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

When comparing the travel costs between Valencia 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 Valencia Expensive? and Is Bilbao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Bilbao?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia or Bilbao in the Summer?

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

Valencia is a little warmer than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Valencia during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Valencia in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, 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.

In the autumn, Valencia is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Bilbao averages at about 16°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Valencia gets 198 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. Valencia usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Bilbao. Most visitors come to Valencia 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.

In January, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Valencia gets 162 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, Valencia usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Bilbao in the Spring?

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

Valencia is a little warmer than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the spring, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Valencia gets 40 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 Valencia