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

Should you visit Dubai or Valencia?

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 Dubai and Valencia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a glamorous, opulent, and modern 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. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Valencia

Valencia is a architectural, friendly, and coastal coastal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Valencia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai than Valencia, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Valencia is known for its food, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Valencia is popular for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella).

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Valencia Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Valencia is not a skiing destination.

Dubai is a fun local destination for snow skiers. Despite being a desert city, Dubai became famous for its massive indoor ski complex that covers 22,500 square meters. It is located in the Mall of the Emirates.

Valencia is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Valencia and Dubai.

Many visitors head to Dubai specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. Head to the observation deck for stunning views.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Valencia can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Dubai or Valencia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valencia is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Valencia has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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, Dubai makes for a great culinary experience. The national dish in the area is khuzi, or ghuzi, which is a meal of roasted lamb or mutton, prepared with rice vegetables and nuts.

Is Dubai or Valencia Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find terrific options in both Dubai and Valencia.

People head to Dubai just to party. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

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

Is Dubai or Valencia Better for Music?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Valencia is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Dubai The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Valencia is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Valencia Better for Resorts?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Dubai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

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 Dubai or Valencia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Dubai has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Valencia Better for Beaches?

Dubai and Valencia are good choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Dubai to enjoy the beach. There are a number of both private and public beaches in the city. They are almost all man-made, so they are large, flat, and have soft sand. It's also generally safe to swim at most beaches.

Valencia has a beach worth visiting. 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 Dubai or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Valencia is revered around the world. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is Dubai or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Valencia is very good for hiking. However, Dubai is not a hiking destination.

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.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Valencia?

Dubai is an amazing city 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 Dubai make it a world-class shopping destination. With its many malls, souks, and shopping areas, this is the place to go for luxury shopping. Popular items to purchase include gold and diamond jewelry, shawls, and Persian rugs.

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 Dubai or Valencia Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Dubai or Valencia.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dubai. This city has family-friendly resorts, skyscrapers with spectacular views, and amusement parks that are fun for the whole family. There are also plenty of fountains that the kids can splash around in.

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 Dubai or Valencia Better for Couples?

Valencia is a great coastal city for couples. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Valencia is a great coastal city if you're traveling as 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.

Dubai is a nice destination for couples. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Is Dubai or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a great coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Dubai is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It is known to be an expensive and not so backpacker friendly city, but there are some hostels around that you can stay at.

Is Dubai or Valencia Better for Students?

For students, both Dubai and Valencia are terrific places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Dubai. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Valencia is a great destination for students. 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.

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

Dubai and Valencia both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Dubai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Valencia has a few public transit options. 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 Dubai or Valencia a more walkable city?

Valencia is a great coastal city for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known 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.

Dubai is generally not very walkable. It is one of the less pedestrian-friendly cities around the world. There is lots of road work, even in the more walkable areas, so getting around on foot can be challenging.

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Valencia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dubai and Valencia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than in Valencia. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Valencia.

Couples should spend more time in Valencia than Dubai. 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 Dubai 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 Dubai or Valencia?

Dubai is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

In Valencia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this architectural big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Dubai or Valencia?

Dubai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dubai or Valencia?

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

Valencia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Valencia. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dubai or Valencia?

Dubai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal big city of Valencia. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates, 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 Dubai and Valencia, we can see that Dubai is more expensive. And not only is Valencia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubai is in Middle East and Valencia is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Valencia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Valencia 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 Dubai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dubai than you might in Valencia.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Valencia?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Valencia. When comparing the sizes of Dubai 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 Dubai or Valencia?

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

Should I visit Dubai or Valencia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Valencia. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally a little warmer than Valencia. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

Dubai usually gets more rain in July than Valencia. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Valencia in the Autumn?

Both Valencia and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Valencia in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Dubai is much warmer than Valencia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Valencia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Valencia. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dubai or Valencia in the Winter?

Both Valencia and Dubai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Valencia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Valencia averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Valencia. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year. January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Valencia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Valencia. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Valencia. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Valencia. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Dubai