A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Valencia for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Antalya or Valencia?

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

Should I visit Antalya 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Valencia

Valencia is a historic, architectural, and friendly coastal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Antalya and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Valencia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia. Although Antalya and Valencia are roughly the same size, Valencia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Valencia is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Antalya is known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Antalya is more touristy than Valencia and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. 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 Antalya different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Valencia?

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Valencia and Antalya.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

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 Antalya or Valencia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Antalya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Music?

Antalya is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Valencia is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Antalya active and fun. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Valencia is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Resorts?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its resorts. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Antalya offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

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.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Beaches?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for the beache. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

The beaches in Antalya are among the best in the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Valencia. 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 Antalya or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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).

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Antalya is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Valencia. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Valencia?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Valencia.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Valencia is 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.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Valencia make for a very good place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

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.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya and Valencia are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Valencia. 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.

Is Antalya or Valencia Better for Students?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya 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.

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

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

Antalya has some very good public transit options. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

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 Antalya or Valencia a more walkable city?

Valencia is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Valencia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and Valencia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in Valencia. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 2-3 days is enough time in Valencia.

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

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

One day in Antalya or Valencia?

The beautiful vacation spot of Antalya offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Valencia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal 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 Antalya or Valencia?

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

Because Valencia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Valencia has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Valencia?

Antalya is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Valencia is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Antalya or Valencia?

Antalya is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This vacation spot offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valencia. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 10-Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Valencia, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Valencia?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Antalya. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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 Antalya or Valencia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Valencia in the Summer?

Both Valencia and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, 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, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Valencia. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Valencia. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 303 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Valencia. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Valencia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Valencia. Many visitors come to Antalya in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

Antalya is around the same temperature as Valencia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Valencia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Valencia during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Valencia. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Valencia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Valencia. Most visitors come to Antalya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Valencia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Antalya is around the same temperature as Valencia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Valencia averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valencia. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 162 hours of full sun.

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Valencia. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Valencia in the Spring?

Both Valencia and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Valencia this time of year.

In April, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Valencia. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Valencia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Valencia during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives more rain than Valencia. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Antalya