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

Should you visit Palermo 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 Palermo 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Palermo is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Palermo travel costs.

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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Bilbao travel costs.

Palermo and Bilbao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Bilbao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo than Bilbao, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palermo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Bilbao is known for its museums and attractions, food, and historical sights. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral. Bilbao is popular for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks.

How is Palermo different from Bilbao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bilbao is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Bilbao is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Palermo or Bilbao Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Bilbao are very good when it comes to partying.

Palermo offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Bilbao has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Palermo or Bilbao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Bilbao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Bilbao Better for Beaches?

Palermo is well known for the beach. However, Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Palermo for it's beautiful beaches. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Bilbao is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Bilbao Better for its Old Town?

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

Bilbao offers a nice historic old town area. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Bilbao?

Both Palermo and Bilbao are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo or Bilbao More Beautiful?

Palermo is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Bilbao is not a destination known for its beauty.

Palermo is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city has beautiful beaches as well as nice architecture.

Bilbao is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Palermo or Bilbao Better for Families?

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

Palermo is a very kid-friendly city. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo or Bilbao Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Bilbao are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Palermo is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Bilbao is a nice destination for couples. 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 Palermo or Bilbao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Bilbao are good destinations for backpackers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

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 Palermo or Bilbao Better for Students?

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

Palermo is a good city to visit for students. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

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

Bilbao is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Bilbao a more walkable city?

Palermo 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.

Palermo is a very walkable city. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Bilbao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bilbao or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Bilbao?

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Palermo. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Palermo or Bilbao?

Palermo 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 Palermo or Bilbao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Palermo or Bilbao?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse destination of Palermo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to 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 Palermo and Bilbao, we can see that Bilbao is more expensive. And not only is Palermo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palermo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palermo 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 Palermo.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Bilbao?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 91% larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Bilbao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Bilbao. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bilbao for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Bilbao. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and Bilbao fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Bilbao receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Bilbao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Bilbao. Many travelers come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bilbao in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Palermo is a little warmer than Bilbao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Bilbao fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bilbao receives 125 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bilbao. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Bilbao. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Bilbao in the Winter?

Both Bilbao and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Palermo 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.

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

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Bilbao during winter. Palermo gets 133 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, Palermo usually receives less rain than Bilbao. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Bilbao in the Spring?

Both Bilbao and Palermo during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the activities around the city.

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

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Bilbao. Palermo gets 219 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. Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Bilbao. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bilbao receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bilbao and Palermo