A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bath vs. Bilbao for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bath or Bilbao?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bath and Bilbao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bath

Bath is a architectural, charming, and historical spa town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of Bath is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bath travel costs.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a authentic, colorful, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Bilbao travel costs.

Bath and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Historic Roman Baths
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bath or Bilbao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bilbao than Bath. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bilbao is very popular for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Bath attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bath is more touristy than Bilbao and is popular for its world-renowned Roman built baths as well as its historical architecture and many museums. 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 Bath different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bath
Bilbao

Bath is an amazing spa town to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Bath are among the most recognizable in the world. The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.

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.


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

Bath
Bilbao

Bilbao is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Bilbao has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bath. Sample afternoon tea or try some local fish and chips. There are a diversity of restaurants to choose from so it's easy to find local favorites, vegetarian options, or international cuisine.

Is Bath or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Bath
Bilbao

Bilbao is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Bilbao has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Bath has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to George Street, which is the liveliest part of the city at night. You'll find a mix of high end restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars that keep the energy high. One of the most popular nightlife venues in Bath is Bath Komedia, which is a popular music and comedy club.

Is Bath or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Bath
Bilbao

Bath 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 Bath. The Roman old town has charming streets and a vibrant environment. On pleasant weekends you'll find tourists and locals alike filling the restaurants and town squares, giving the city an energy and lively 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 Bath or Bilbao?

Bath
Bilbao

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Bath and Bilbao.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bath. Head to Stall Street and Union Street for the most popular shopping streets in town. Many visitors pick up jewelry, glass, and fudge or other sweets while exploring the area.

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.

Is Bath or Bilbao More Beautiful?

Bath
Bilbao

Bath is an amazing spa town to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Bilbao is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Bath is one of the main draws. Seeped in history, this city is one of the most beautiful in the region.

Bilbao is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bath or Bilbao Better for Families?

Bath
Bilbao

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Bath or Bilbao.

Bath is a family-friendly spa town. The city is all about history and architecture, so at times it can be challenging for the kids to stay entertained. For a change of pace, take a boat on the canal or explore one of the beautiful gardens.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bilbao. 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 Bath or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Bath
Bilbao

Bath is an amazing spa town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Bath is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.

Bilbao is a good spa town 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 Bath or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bath
Bilbao

Bath and Bilbao are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Bath is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a surprising number of hostels around town so it's not hard to meet other backpackers while you're in the area.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bilbao. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and a good social scene that makes it easy to meet other backpackers.

Is Bath or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bath
Bilbao

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

Many students visit Bath. The University of Bath offers a number of different programs so this is a popular city for local and international students.

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

Bath
Bilbao

Bilbao is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bilbao. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

You'll find some public transit in Bath, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You likely won't need public transit because it's easy to walk most places, but there are buses around town.

Is Bath or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Bath
Bilbao

Bath is an amazing spa town 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 Bath on foot is easy. It is a very walkable city with most sights and activities packed into a very compact area. There are also many pedestrian areas that are easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Bath?

How long in Bath or Bilbao?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Bath or Bilbao? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bath 1-3 
    Bilbao 2-3

One day in Bath or Bilbao?

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bilbao. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Bath or Bilbao?

Bath is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Bilbao is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bath or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bath. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Bilbao. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bath or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the architectural destination of Bath. This spa town 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.

The authentic city of Bilbao offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Bilbao or Bath?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Bath Prices
    UK Prices
    Bilbao Prices
    Spain Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bath £172
    Bilbao £149

The average daily cost (per person) in Bath is £172, while the average daily cost in Bilbao is £149. 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 Bath and Bilbao in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bath £79
    Bilbao £63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bath £158
    Bilbao £126
Compare Hotels in Bath and Bilbao

Looking for a hotel in Bath 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 Bath


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: Bath Hotel Prices and Bilbao Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bath £26
    Bilbao £23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bath

Also for Bath, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Bath".: $174
  • Bus Transfer to/from Bristol Airport: $24
  • LHR to Bath Executive SUV Transfer: $795
  • Private Transfer: From Bath to London Heathrow Airport.: $174

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bilbao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bilbao:

  • Transfer Bilbao or San Sebastian Airports to San Sebastian by Van: $116
  • Private Transfer from Vitoria to Laguardia town: $229
  • Private Transfer from Vitoria to Bilbao Cruise Port: $228
  • Private Transfer from Vitoria to Bilbao: $176
  • Private Transfer from Vitoria city to Logroño Airport : $281
  • Private Transfer from Vitoria city to Bilbao Airport: $176
  • Private Transfer from Vitoria Airport to Elciego town: $229
  • Private Transfer from Bilbao to Santander Port: $277
  • Private Transfer from Bilbao city to Vitoria Airport : $176
  • Private Transfer from Bilbao city to Vitoria: $176
  • Private Transfer from Bilbao city to Santander Airport : $277
  • Private Transfer from Bilbao city to Bilbao Cruise Port: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Bath or Bilbao?

Prices for flights to both Bilbao and Bath 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
    Bath £75
    Bilbao £68

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bilbao

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bilbao.

  • Bilbao Food Tour with Pintxos & Drinks with a Local: $105
  • Bilbao Food Tour: Pintxos, Drinks, and Tapas with a Local: $107
  • The Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairings: $112
  • Basque Food Tour and Wine Tasting with Guide: $112
  • Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class: $112
  • Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao: $120
  • Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao : $120
  • The Award-Winning Bilbao Food Tour & Wine Pairing by Basque Local: $126
  • Paella Cooking Class with Sangria in Bilbao: $148
  • Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao: $150
  • Immersive Basque Cooking Class: $165
  • Gourmet Pintxos & Premium Wines small groups Food Tour: $216

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bath £17
    Bilbao £25
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bath

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Bath's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Thermal Bath Spa
    £35

Tours and Activities in Bath

For Bath, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Bath : 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour With An App: $9.99
  • Bridgeton Walking Tour with an APP: $9.99
  • No. 1 Royal Crescent House Museum Entry Ticket: $22
  • Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein Entrance Ticket: $23
  • Bridgerton Filming Locations Walking Tour with Music: $23
  • Guided Ghost Tour: $24
  • RocknStroll Tour: $25
  • Best of Bath Walking Tour Ltd, Georgian Tour.: $27
  • Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of Iconic Bridgerton Filming Locations: $27
  • City Walking Tour with Optional Roman Baths Entry: $27

Tours and Activities in Bilbao

Here are a few actual costs in Bilbao for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 4-hour Private Bilbao City Walking Tour: $213
  • Artist-Guided Tour of the Guggenheim Museum: $107
  • Awesome Bilbao – Private Family Walking Tour: $473
  • BILBAO-City Highlights Bike Tour: $42
  • Basque Country 7-Day Guided Tour from Bilbao: $1,315
  • Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum Private Walking Tour with guide: $246
  • Bilbao & Guggenheim Private Walking Tour from Hotel/Center: $308
  • Bilbao - Private Historic walking tour: $414
  • Bilbao 3-Day Package: Guggenheim, Hotel Stay and Bike Tour: $297
  • Bilbao : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $53
  • Bilbao All Iron Tour: Guggenheim and San Mamés with Lunch: $295
  • Bilbao Electric Bike Tour: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bath £14
    Bilbao £19

Sample the Local Flavors in Bath

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bath:

  • Vineyard Tour, Wine Tasting, and Music Pairing: $133

Sample the Local Flavors in Bilbao

Also in Bilbao, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Unique Spanish Wine Tasting with Sommelier - In Bilbao: $53
  • Basque Wine Tasting with Sommelier (Bilbao): $54
  • Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo, Mundaka, Gernika, & Wine Tour: $70
  • From La Rioja Wineries Day Trip with Wine Tastings: $75
  • Pintxos and Wine Tasting Tour with Local Guide: $100
  • Basque Best Bites - #1 Food & Wine tour of Bilbao: $120
  • Bilbao Txakoli Wine Tour: $195
  • Bilbao Txakoli Wine Tour: $198
  • Guided Txacoli Wine Tasting: $207
  • Boutique Rioja Wine Tour with Charming Lunch (From Bilbao): $266
  • Marques de Riscal and Ysios Rioja Wine Tour w/ Lunch from Bilbao: $274
  • Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Bilbao: $287


When comparing the travel costs between Bath and Bilbao, we can see that Bath 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 Bath Expensive? and Is Bilbao Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bath or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bath. When comparing the sizes of Bath 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.