A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aegina vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Aegina or Barcelona?

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

Should I visit Aegina or Barcelona? 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.

Aegina

Aegina is a relaxing, vibrant, and fun island. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a youthful, colorful, and laid-back city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Aegina and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aegina or Barcelona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Barcelona than Aegina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Barcelona is better known for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Aegina is more popular for its small town charm. Barcelona is more touristy than Aegina and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Aegina is well known for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens.

How is Aegina different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aegina or Barcelona?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Aegina or Barcelona.

Aegina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.

Many visitors head to Barcelona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Aegina or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Barcelona is an experience not to be missed. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aegina. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

Is Aegina or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Barcelona has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

The nightlife in Aegina has something for everybody. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

Is Aegina or Barcelona Better for Music?

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

In Barcelona you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Aegina is not a live music destination.

Is Aegina or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Aegina and Barcelona are notable choices.

Aegina is a good option for a beach vacation. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Is Aegina or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Barcelona?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Barcelona is a world class destination for shoppers. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Aegina. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.

Is Aegina or Barcelona Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aegina or Barcelona.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aegina. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.

Barcelona offers lots of family activities. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Aegina or Barcelona Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Aegina and Barcelona make for a notable place to visit.

Aegina is a good island for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Barcelona is a nice destination for couples. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Aegina or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Barcelona is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.

Is Aegina or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Aegina is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Aegina is not popular with students.

Is Aegina or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Barcelona offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

While Aegina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

Is Aegina or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Aegina is a island with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Aegina is somewhat walkable. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable island. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Aegina Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Barcelona?

Both Aegina and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Aegina. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Aegina, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Aegina 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 Barcelona.

One day in Aegina or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the island of Aegina. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aegina has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona 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.

A weekend in Aegina or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Aegina. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona 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.

Five days in Aegina or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active island of Aegina. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. 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.

A week in Aegina or Barcelona?

Aegina is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aegina and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is Aegina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Aegina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aegina 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in Aegina.

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

Which is Bigger, Aegina or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Aegina and Barcelona, 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 Aegina or Barcelona?

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 Aegina or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Barcelona. Many visitors come to Aegina in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Aegina is a little warmer than Barcelona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aegina in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Barcelona averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Aegina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aegina usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Aegina or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Barcelona. Most visitors come to Aegina for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Aegina is generally a little warmer than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 19°C (67°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aegina this time of the year. In the autumn, Aegina often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in October than Barcelona. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aegina or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Aegina because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

Aegina is a little warmer than Barcelona in the winter. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Aegina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during winter. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aegina usually receives around the same amount of rain as Barcelona. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Aegina or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Aegina during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Aegina is a little warmer than Barcelona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aegina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Barcelona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Aegina. In the spring, Aegina often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in April than Barcelona. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Aegina