A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Zaragoza vs. Bilbao for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Zaragoza or Bilbao?

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

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

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a compact, authentic, and cultural city. 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 industrial, authentic, and colorful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Zaragoza and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zaragoza or Bilbao?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bilbao than Zaragoza. While Zaragoza is larger than Bilbao, Bilbao has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bilbao is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Zaragoza is known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene. Bilbao is popular for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. It is also home to The Guggenheim Museum.

How is Zaragoza different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Zaragoza or Bilbao.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Zaragoza can be an interesting and educational experience. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

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 Zaragoza or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zaragoza is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

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 Zaragoza or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Bilbao has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Zaragoza or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

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 Zaragoza or Bilbao?

Both Zaragoza and Bilbao are great shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

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.

Is Zaragoza or Bilbao Better for Families?

Zaragoza and Bilbao are both good destinations for the whole family.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly place to visit. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

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

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

Couples visit Zaragoza frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

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

Both Zaragoza and Bilbao are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Zaragoza. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young 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.

Is Zaragoza or Bilbao Better for Students?

Zaragoza and Bilbao are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

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

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

Both Zaragoza and Bilbao offer great public transit options.

The public transit in Zaragoza can get you to most places easily. There are buses and trams around the city.

Visitors to Bilbao can move around easily with public transportation. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Is Zaragoza or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable.

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 Zaragoza Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Zaragoza?

How long in Zaragoza or Bilbao?

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

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

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

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

One day in Zaragoza or Bilbao?

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

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 Zaragoza or Bilbao?

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza or Bilbao?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the compact destination of Zaragoza. 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.

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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Zaragoza or Bilbao?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 85% larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza or Bilbao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zaragoza and Bilbao. Many travelers come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bilbao in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zaragoza is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 26°C (79°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Zaragoza, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Zaragoza gets 344 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Zaragoza gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zaragoza as well as Bilbao. Many visitors come to Zaragoza in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Zaragoza is around the same temperature as Bilbao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zaragoza averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Zaragoza gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Zaragoza usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Zaragoza gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Zaragoza are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zaragoza 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 the winter, Zaragoza is cooler than Bilbao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zaragoza in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Bilbao averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Zaragoza gets 131 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, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Zaragoza gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Zaragoza during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

In April, Zaragoza is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 15°C (58°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Zaragoza. In the spring, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Zaragoza gets 217 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. Zaragoza usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Zaragoza gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Zaragoza