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

Should you visit Aegina or Valencia?

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

Should I visit Aegina or Valencia? 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 fun, active, and relaxing island. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Valencia

Valencia is a historic, architectural, and friendly coastal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Aegina and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aegina or Valencia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valencia. Although Aegina and Valencia are both popular with visitors, Valencia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Valencia is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Aegina is known for its small town charm. Aegina is popular for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens. Valencia is popular for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). It is also home to La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències.

How is Aegina different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Valencia 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 Valencia?

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

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 Valencia specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

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

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Valencia is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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 Valencia Better for Nightlife?

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

Valencia has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

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 Valencia Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a popular place for its resorts. However, Aegina is not a resort destination.

Valencia has a few great resort options. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Aegina is not a resort destination.

Is Aegina or Valencia Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Aegina and Valencia are good 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 Valencia to enjoy the beach. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Is Aegina or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Valencia offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Is Aegina or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Aegina is not a hiking destination.

Valencia is a good destination for hiking. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Aegina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Valencia?

Valencia is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Valencia. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

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 Valencia Better for Families?

Valencia is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Valencia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

Aegina offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Aegina or Valencia Better for Couples?

Valencia is a great destination for couples. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Valencia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

Aegina is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Is Aegina or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Valencia is a very popular coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

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 Valencia Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Valencia. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

Aegina is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aegina and Valencia.

You'll find some public transit in Aegina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

Is Aegina or Valencia a more walkable city?

Valencia is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Valencia is a very walkable destination. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Valencia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aegina and Valencia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Valencia than in Aegina. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Aegina, and 2-3 days is enough time in Valencia.

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

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

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

One day in Aegina or Valencia?

The island of Aegina offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Valencia 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 Valencia?

Aegina is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aegina, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Valencia 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.

Five days in Aegina or Valencia?

Aegina is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Aegina or Valencia?

Aegina is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural big city of Valencia. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aegina and Valencia, we can see that Valencia 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 Valencia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Valencia 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 Valencia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Aegina or Valencia?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Aegina and Valencia, 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 Valencia?

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 Valencia in the Summer?

Both Valencia and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Aegina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Valencia in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Aegina is generally a little warmer than Valencia. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 27°C (81°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Valencia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Valencia during summer. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aegina usually receives less rain than Valencia. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Aegina or Valencia in the Autumn?

Both Valencia and Aegina during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Aegina in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, most visitors come to Valencia for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Aegina is around the same temperature as Valencia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Valencia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Aegina. In the autumn, Aegina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valencia. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 198 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Aegina or Valencia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Valencia. Most visitors come to Aegina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Valencia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Aegina is cooler than Valencia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aegina in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Valencia averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Aegina usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during winter. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aegina usually receives more rain than Valencia. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Aegina or Valencia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Valencia. The spring months attract visitors to Aegina because of the beaches and the small town charm. Additionally, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Valencia this time of year.

In April, Aegina is generally around the same temperature as Valencia. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 16°C (60°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aegina this time of the year. In the spring, Aegina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valencia. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 213 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in April than Valencia. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Aegina