While Spain is famed for its characterful towns and sun-drenched beaches, one northern city is earning a new, surprising nickname for its exceptional value and vibrant spirit. Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country, is being hailed as the 'Manchester of Spain', offering British holidaymakers a culturally rich and genuinely affordable escape.
Unbeatable Value for UK Travellers
Recent visits have highlighted just how budget-friendly this destination can be. Journalist Martina Andretta, who travelled there in October, found it both "laidback and genuinely affordable", reporting she paid just £2 for a glass of wine.
The savings start before you even land. According to Skyscanner, February is the cheapest month to fly, with one-way tickets from the UK available for as little as £16. A return journey can be secured from £31. Even in the peak summer month of July, accommodation remains reasonable, with a two-night hotel stay for two people found on Booking.com for £179.
A Cultural Powerhouse Without the Crowds
Beyond the low prices, Bilbao boasts a compelling cultural scene. It is home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a world-renowned art destination. Unlike the often-packed streets of Barcelona or Madrid, Bilbao maintains a lively yet manageable atmosphere where visitors aren't battling overwhelming crowds.
The city's 10,000-square-metre La Ribera Market, claimed to be Europe's largest covered market, is a food lover's paradise. Its maze of stalls sell everything from Iberico ham and aged cheese to fresh, seasonal produce.
Industrial Heritage & Football Passion
The comparison to Manchester stems from more than just value. Both cities share a strong sense of industrial heritage and working-class pride, expressed through striking modern architecture built upon historic foundations. The local passion for football also mirrors that of Manchester, with residents fiercely supporting Athletic Bilbao much like Mancunians back their city's famous clubs.
For those looking to explore further, a short metro ride from the old town leads to the Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors also have easy access to the wild, unspoiled beaches of Spain's north coast.
Bilbao's emergence as a top value destination aligns with a broader trend in Spain. Reports earlier this year identified regions like Jaén, Cádiz, and Galicia as among the country's most affordable for foreign residents, with rents as low as €4 to €6 per square metre. This makes Bilbao a perfect gateway to experiencing Spain's rich culture without the premium price tag of its more famous hotspots.
