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

Should you visit Messina 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 Messina 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.

Messina

Messina is a bustling, local, and historic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Messina travel costs.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a colorful, friendly, and industrial city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bilbao travel costs.

Messina and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Bilbao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bilbao than Messina. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bilbao is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Messina attracts visitors for its beaches. Messina is famous for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. 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 Messina different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bilbao is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Messina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

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

Bilbao is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Bilbao have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Messina and Bilbao.

Messina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

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 Messina or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

Messina is a port city with a few options for the beach. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Messina or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

Bilbao is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bilbao to see the historical old town. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Bilbao?

Bilbao is well known for shopping. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Bilbao is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Messina or Bilbao Better for Families?

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

Messina is a very kid-friendly port city. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

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 Messina or Bilbao Better for Couples?

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

Messina is a nice destination for couples. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

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 Messina or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Messina and Bilbao are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Messina is a good port city to visit for backpackers. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

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 Messina or Bilbao Better for Students?

Messina and Bilbao are nice places to visit for students.

Messina is popular with students. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to 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 Messina or Bilbao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bilbao is well known for its public transit. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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.

While Messina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

Is Messina or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Messina 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.

Messina is a very walkable port city. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Messina?

How long in Messina or Bilbao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Messina and Bilbao. In our opinion, Bilbao has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bilbao than Messina. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Bilbao than Messina. 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 Messina 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 Messina or Bilbao?

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

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 Messina or Bilbao?

Messina 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.

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 Messina or Bilbao?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Messina. This port city 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, 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 Messina and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Messina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Messina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Messina 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 Messina.

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

Which is Bigger, Messina or Bilbao?

Bilbao has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Messina 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 Messina 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 Messina or Bilbao in the Summer?

Both Bilbao and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Messina is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Messina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Bilbao averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Messina. Messina usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Messina usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Messina or Bilbao in the Autumn?

Both Bilbao and Messina during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Messina for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Messina is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 21°C (69°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Messina often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 125 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 Messina. Messina usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bilbao. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Bilbao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Bilbao. Many visitors come to Messina in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bilbao for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Messina is a little warmer than Bilbao in the winter. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Bilbao fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Messina usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 77 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the winter. Messina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Messina usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Bilbao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Messina as well as Bilbao. Most visitors come to Messina for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Messina is a little warmer than Bilbao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Messina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bilbao averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Messina this time of the year. In the spring, Messina often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 117 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Messina usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Messina