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

Should you visit Canberra or Valencia?

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

Should I visit Canberra 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.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Valencia

Valencia is a historic, architectural, and friendly coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Canberra and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Canberra or Valencia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Valencia than Canberra. Valencia is bigger than Canberra, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Valencia is more touristy than Canberra and is popular for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). Also, Valencia is famous for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Canberra different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Canberra and Valencia.

Canberra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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 Canberra or Valencia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valencia is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Canberra 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.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Canberra or Valencia Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Valencia is a must-see party destination. 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Valencia Better for Resorts?

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

With a selection of resorts, Valencia makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Canberra is not a resort destination.

Is Canberra or Valencia Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a popular place for the beache. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Valencia is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Canberra or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is terrific for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Valencia has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Is Canberra or Valencia Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Canberra and Valencia both have notable trails.

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Many people include a hike when visiting 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 Canberra or Valencia?

Valencia is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Valencia is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Canberra or Valencia Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Canberra or Valencia.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

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.

Is Canberra or Valencia Better for Couples?

Valencia is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Valencia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Canberra or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Valencia Better for Students?

Valencia is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Canberra is very popular with students. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Canberra and Valencia.

Canberra has some public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

You'll find some public transit in Valencia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Canberra or Valencia a more walkable city?

Valencia is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal city. 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.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Valencia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Canberra and Valencia. In our opinion, Valencia has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Valencia than Canberra. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Valencia than Canberra. 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 Canberra. 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 Canberra 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 Canberra or Valencia?

The city of Canberra offers food and shopping. 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.

Valencia 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.

A weekend in Canberra or Valencia?

Canberra 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Canberra, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Valencia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal city 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 Valencia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Canberra or Valencia?

Canberra 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.

Valencia 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 Canberra or Valencia?

Canberra 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 city offers something for everyone.

Valencia 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 coastal city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

When comparing the travel costs between Canberra and Valencia, we can see that Canberra 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 Canberra is in Pacific and Valencia 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 Canberra Expensive? and Is Valencia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Canberra or Valencia?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra 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 Canberra or Valencia?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Valencia has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Canberra or Valencia in the Summer?

Both Valencia and Canberra during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Valencia in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Canberra is cooler than Valencia in the summer. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Valencia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F)in July.

Canberra usually gets more rain in January than Valenciain July. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Valencia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Valencia. Many visitors come to Canberra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. 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.

In the autumn, Canberra is cooler than Valencia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Canberra in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Valencia averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

Canberra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Canberra usually receives more rain than Valenciain October. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Canberra or Valencia in the Winter?

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

In July, Canberra is generally around the same temperature as Valenciain January. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 11°C (52°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Canberra usually gets more rain in July than Valenciain January. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Valencia in the Spring?

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

Canberra is around the same temperature as Valencia in the spring. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 15°C (60°F) in October, and Valencia fluctuates around 15°C (60°F)in April.

In October, Canberra usually receives more rain than Valenciain April. Canberra gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Canberra