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

Should you visit Warsaw 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 Warsaw 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.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a under-rated, diverse, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. 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 friendly, industrial, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Warsaw and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Warsaw or Bilbao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Warsaw than Bilbao. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Warsaw is very popular for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Bilbao attracts visitors for its shopping. Bilbao is more touristy than Warsaw and is popular for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. Warsaw is famous for its historical position as a cultural and political center. It is also well known for The Old Town Market Square.

How is Warsaw different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Warsaw or Bilbao.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

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 Warsaw or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Warsaw 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 Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

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 Warsaw or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Warsaw and Bilbao.

The nightlife in Warsaw has something for everybody. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

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.

Is Warsaw or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw is well known for its old town. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Warsaw. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the 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 the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Bilbao?

Bilbao is a great city for shopping. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bilbao. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Warsaw offers some nice shopping areas. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

Is Warsaw or Bilbao Better for Families?

Both Warsaw and Bilbao are nice to visit with kids.

Warsaw offers lots of family activities. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Bilbao is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Warsaw or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Both Warsaw and Bilbao are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Warsaw is a nice destination for couples. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

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.

Is Warsaw or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Warsaw and Bilbao are nice places to visit.

Warsaw is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

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

Is Warsaw or Bilbao Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

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

Warsaw and Bilbao both offer very good public transit to get you around.

Visitors to Warsaw can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

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

Is Warsaw or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Bilbao is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Bilbao?

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

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

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

One day in Warsaw or Bilbao?

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bilbao. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Warsaw or Bilbao?

Warsaw 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. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Warsaw or Bilbao?

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

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

A week in Warsaw or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated destination of Warsaw. This 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.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Poland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow, 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 Warsaw and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Warsaw would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Warsaw 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 Bilbao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bilbao than you might in Warsaw.

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

Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Bilbao?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw 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 Warsaw 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 Warsaw or Bilbao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Warsaw as well as Bilbao. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Warsaw this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Warsaw is around the same temperature as Bilbao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Warsaw in July average around 19°C (65°F), and Bilbao averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Warsaw this time of the year. In the summer, Warsaw often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Warsaw gets 353 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets more rain in July than Bilbao. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Warsaw or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Warsaw are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Warsaw is generally much colder than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around 9°C (49°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Warsaw gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. In October, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Warsaw or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Warsaw during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Warsaw 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.

Warsaw can get quite cold in the winter. Warsaw is much colder than Bilbao in the winter. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Warsaw often gets less sunshine than Bilbao. Warsaw gets 35 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun.

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Warsaw usually gets less rain in January than Bilbao. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Warsaw or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Warsaw and Bilbao. Most visitors come to Warsaw for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Warsaw is cooler than Bilbao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Warsaw in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Bilbao averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Warsaw, it's very sunny this time of the year. Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Warsaw gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun in the spring.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Warsaw