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

Should you visit Lisbon or Bilbao?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Bilbao? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of Lisbon is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lisbon travel costs.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a authentic, colorful, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Bilbao travel costs.

Lisbon and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Bilbao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Bilbao, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lisbon is more touristy than Bilbao and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Bilbao is popular for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Lisbon different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon is an amazing city 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 Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Bilbao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Bilbao can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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.

Is Lisbon or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

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

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Bilbao Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Bilbao is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Lisbon The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Bilbao is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

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

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

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

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of 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 Lisbon or Bilbao?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Bilbao More Beautiful?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Bilbao is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Lisbon is one of the main draws. With its bright colors and dramatic hills, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many spectacular viewpoints that look out over the city.

Bilbao is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lisbon or Bilbao Better for Families?

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

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Bilbao Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for 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 Lisbon or Bilbao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bilbao. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

Is Lisbon or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an amazing city 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 Lisbon on foot is easy. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Bilbao. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Bilbao. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bilbao.

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

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

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

One day in Lisbon or Bilbao?

Lisbon 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife 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 Lisbon or Bilbao?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Bilbao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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.

Five days in Lisbon or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bilbao. Don't miss the food, 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.

A week in Lisbon or Bilbao?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Bilbao?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Bilbao. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Bilbao. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Bilbao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Bilbao. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lisbon is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Bilbao averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets less rain in January than Bilbao. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Lisbon