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

Should you visit Ephesus or Bilbao?

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

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

Ephesus

Ephesus is a world-renowned, fascinating, and ancient archeological site. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Ephesus travel costs.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a friendly, industrial, and authentic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Bilbao travel costs.

Ephesus and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ephesus or Bilbao?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bilbao than Ephesus. Bilbao is bigger than Ephesus, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bilbao is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Ephesus is more popular for its museums and attractions. Ephesus is more touristy than Bilbao and is popular for its well-preserved ruins and vast size Bilbao is well known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. Also, Bilbao is famous for The Guggenheim Museum.

How is Ephesus different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ephesus is an amazing archeological site 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 Ephesus are among the most recognizable in the world. Of course, the iconic site is the ruins of Ephesus. There are also several fascinating museums in the area that offer deeper insights into the region's rich history and culture. The Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selçuk is popular. It has an impressive collection of artifacts excavated from the ancient city, including statues, pottery, and inscriptions. Just outside the museum, the Temple of Artemis section displays remnants of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Selçuk Museum of Ephesus is another excellent spot to explore, with exhibits that highlight both the daily life of ancient Ephesians and their religious practices. A short drive from Ephesus is the House of the Virgin Mary museum, a revered site believed to be the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus, with a chapel and peaceful surroundings. Lastly, the İsa Bey Mosque and Museum in Selçuk adds to the area's historical depth, offering a glimpse into the Seljuk architecture and Islamic heritage of the region.

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 Ephesus or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bilbao is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bilbao is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ephesus area. Most of the food options are found in the nearby town of Selçuk. Popular dishes include kebabs, mezes, and pide (Turkish flatbread pizza). Many restaurants are casual and cater specifically to the tourist crowds.

Is Ephesus or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Bilbao is a great city for nightlife and partying. However, Ephesus is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Bilbao has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Ephesus specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The there are a couple of bars and restaurants with live music in the town of Selçuk, but generally the nightlife is very low key.

Is Ephesus or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Ephesus does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Bilbao. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Ephesus does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ephesus or Bilbao?

Bilbao is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Ephesus to go shopping. Selçuk has a variety of local shops and markets. Traditional handicrafts such as carpet and kilim weaving, ceramics, and leather goods are popular souvenirs. The Selçuk Market is held on Saturdays and offers fresh produce, spices, and other local products.

Is Ephesus or Bilbao Better for Families?

Ephesus and Bilbao are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Ephesus offers lots of family activities. Kids who are into history or archeology will enjoy a visit to the famed ruins of Ephesus. There's also the Ephesus Archaeological Museum where everyone can learn about ancient Greek and Roman cultures in an interactive setting. The nearby House of the Virgin Mary offers a peaceful stop where kids can learn about its historical and religious significance in a tranquil environment. For an active experience, families can enjoy a short hike to Pamucak Beach, where children can swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

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 Ephesus or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Ephesus and Bilbao are both notable to visit as a couple.

Ephesus makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many couples stop off at these ruins as part of a bigger tour of Turkey. The ruins are well preserved and impressive, but can get crowded if you visit during the peak times.

Bilbao is a good archeological site 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 Ephesus or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Ephesus and Bilbao are notable places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ephesus. Many backpackers stay in the nearby town of Selçuk, which has several hostels. This is also where you'll find a number of restaurants and shopping opportunities.

Bilbao is a good archeological site 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 Ephesus or Bilbao Better for Students?

Bilbao is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Ephesus is not popular with 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.

Ephesus is not popular with students.

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

Ephesus and Bilbao both offer great public transit to get you around.

Ephesus has some very good public transit options. The town of Selçuk is well-connected by dolmuşes (shared minivans) that run frequently and offer affordable rides to nearby destinations, including Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Pamucak Beach area.

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

Is Ephesus or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Ephesus and Bilbao are notable when it comes to walkability.

Ephesus is a somewhat walkable place. The ruins are spread out over a large area, but most of the key sites, like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater, are within walking distance of each other. From Selçuk, it's about a half hour walk to the entrance of the Ephesus ruins, but most visitors prefer to take a short taxi or dolmuş ride to the site. Within Selçuk, many of the sites can be reached on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Ephesus?

How long in Ephesus or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ephesus and Bilbao. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bilbao than in Ephesus. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ephesus, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

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

One day in Ephesus or Bilbao?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Ephesus. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bilbao, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Ephesus or Bilbao?

Ephesus 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.

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

Five days in Ephesus or Bilbao?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating destination of Ephesus. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Cultural Tours in Turkey, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Turkey, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ephesus and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Ephesus much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ephesus would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ephesus 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 Ephesus.

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

Which is Bigger, Ephesus or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Ephesus. When comparing the sizes of Ephesus 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 Ephesus 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 Ephesus or Bilbao in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ephesus as well as Bilbao. Many travelers come to Ephesus for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Ephesus is a little warmer than Bilbao in the summer. The daily temperature in Ephesus averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ephesus this time of the year. In the summer, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Ephesus gets 378 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

Ephesus usually gets less rain in July than Bilbao. Ephesus gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ephesus or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Ephesus are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ephesus in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ephesus. Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Ephesus gets 232 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, Ephesus usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Ephesus gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ephesus or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Ephesus during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ephesus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Ephesus is generally around the same temperature as Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Ephesus average around 10°C (50°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Ephesus gets 131 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ephesus. Ephesus usually gets more rain in January than Bilbao. Ephesus gets 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ephesus or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ephesus and Bilbao. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

Ephesus is a little warmer than Bilbao in the spring. The daily temperature in Ephesus averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Ephesus, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Ephesus gets 231 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, Ephesus usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Ephesus 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 Ephesus