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

Should you visit Barcelona or Florence?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Barcelona and Florence can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a historic, cultural, and friendly city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Barcelona or Florence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Florence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is very popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Florence attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Barcelona is famous for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Florence is famous for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens.

How is Barcelona different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Florence is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Florence that are not to be missed. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. 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 Barcelona or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Florence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Barcelona or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Barcelona is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Barcelona or Florence Better for Music?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Barcelona. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Barcelona or Florence Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

Barcelona has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Barcelona or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Barcelona or Florence?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Barcelona draws large crowds to its stores. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Barcelona or Florence Better for Families?

Both Barcelona and Florence are nice to visit with kids.

Barcelona is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Florence is a family-friendly city. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Barcelona or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is renowned for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Florence is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Barcelona or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Barcelona and Florence are first-rate destinations for backpackers.

Barcelona is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Is Barcelona or Florence Better for Students?

Barcelona and Florence are both first-rate destinations for students and younger travelers.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. 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.

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

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

Public transit in Barcelona can get you to some places easily. 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.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Barcelona or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Barcelona Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Barcelona?

How long in Barcelona or Florence?

Both Barcelona and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Barcelona, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Florence 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 Barcelona or Florence?

Barcelona is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Florence. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Barcelona or Florence?

Barcelona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the alluring destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Barcelona or Florence?

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the artistic city of Florence. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Barcelona or Florence?

Barcelona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Barcelona has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Barcelona and Florence, we can see that Barcelona 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 Barcelona Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Barcelona or Florence?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Barcelona and Florence, 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 Barcelona or Florence?

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 Barcelona or Florence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Florence. Most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Florence because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Barcelona is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Barcelona in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Florence averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In the summer, Barcelona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Florence. Barcelona gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in July than Florence. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Barcelona or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In October, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 17°C (63°F), and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Barcelona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during autumn. Barcelona gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Barcelona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Barcelona or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Barcelona during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Barcelona is a little warmer than Florence in the winter. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Barcelona often gets more sunshine than Florence. Barcelona gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in January than Florence. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Barcelona or Florence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Florence. Many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Barcelona is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Barcelona in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Florence averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. Barcelona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during spring. Barcelona gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Florence. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Barcelona