A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auckland vs. Valletta for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Auckland or Valletta?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Valletta can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Valletta

Valletta is a charming, cultural, and waterfront town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Auckland and Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Valletta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Auckland. Although Auckland and Valletta are both popular with visitors, Auckland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Auckland is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Valletta is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Auckland is more touristy than Valletta and is known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also home to the Sky Tower. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Auckland different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auckland or Valletta?

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Valletta are world-renowned. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Is the Food Better in Auckland or Valletta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Valletta has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Auckland or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Auckland is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Auckland has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Auckland or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Auckland is a very popular place for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

The beaches at Auckland attract visitors from all over. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Is Auckland or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Auckland does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Valletta can be explored in its historical center. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Auckland does not have a historic old town.

Is Auckland or Valletta Better for Hiking?

Auckland is a city with good options for its hiking trails. However, Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Auckland. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Valletta?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Auckland and Valletta.

Auckland is well-known for its shopping. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Valletta. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Is Auckland or Valletta Better for Families?

Auckland is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Auckland. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Auckland or Valletta Better for Couples?

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Valletta has plenty to offer. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Auckland or Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland and Valletta are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Valletta is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Auckland or Valletta Better for Students?

Auckland is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Auckland. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Valletta is not popular with students.

Is Auckland or Valletta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Auckland and Valletta.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

You'll find some public transit in Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Auckland or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Valletta. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is Valletta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Valletta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Auckland and Valletta. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 1-3 days is enough time in Valletta.

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

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

One day in Auckland or Valletta?

Auckland is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The beautiful town of Valletta offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Auckland or Valletta?

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

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

Five days in Auckland or Valletta?

Auckland 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.

Valletta 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.

A week in Auckland or Valletta?

Auckland is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Valletta is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

When comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Valletta, we can see that Auckland 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. Even though Auckland is in Pacific and Valletta is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Valletta?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Valletta, 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 Auckland or Valletta?

Auckland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Valletta in the Summer?

Both Valletta and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Auckland is cooler than Valletta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Auckland in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Valletta averages at about 26°C (79°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Valletta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Auckland. Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during summer. Auckland gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Auckland usually receives more rain than Vallettain July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Auckland or Valletta in the Autumn?

Both Valletta and Auckland during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Auckland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

In April, Auckland is generally cooler than Vallettain October. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 16°C (61°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Vallettain October. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets more rain in April than Vallettain October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Valletta in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Valletta. Most visitors come to Auckland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Auckland is cooler than Valletta in the winter. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in January.

Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during winter. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun in the winter.

Auckland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Auckland usually receives more rain than Vallettain January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Auckland or Valletta in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Valletta. The spring months attract visitors to Auckland because of the beaches and the activities around the city. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

In the spring, Auckland is cooler than Valletta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Auckland in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Valletta averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. In the spring, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Vallettain April. Auckland gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets more rain in October than Vallettain April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Auckland