A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Barcelona for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hong Kong or Barcelona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Barcelona, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a compact, dense, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

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.

Hong Kong and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Barcelona?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Hong Kong. While Hong Kong is larger than Barcelona, Barcelona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Barcelona is very popular for its nightlife, music, and historical sights, while Hong Kong attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Barcelona is more touristy than Hong Kong and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Hong Kong is famous for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum.

How is Hong Kong different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Barcelona?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Hong Kong and Barcelona.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 Hong Kong or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

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 Hong Kong or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Is Hong Kong or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

Is Hong Kong or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Is Hong Kong or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a very popular place for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Barcelona to see the historical old town. 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.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Barcelona Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Hong Kong is a popular spot for hiking. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Barcelona?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Hong Kong and Barcelona.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Barcelona is a world class destination for shoppers. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Is Hong Kong or Barcelona Better for Families?

Hong Kong is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an extremely popular city to visit for families. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. 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.

Is Hong Kong or Barcelona Better for Couples?

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

Hong Kong is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

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 Hong Kong or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Barcelona is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Is Hong Kong or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a great destination 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.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

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

Hong Kong is renowned for its public transit. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Hong Kong has a great public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around 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.

Is Hong Kong or Barcelona a more walkable city?

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

It is easy to get around Hong Kong on foot. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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 Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Barcelona?

Both Hong Kong and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Hong Kong has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hong Kong than Barcelona. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Barcelona. 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 Hong Kong or Barcelona?

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find live music and food around the youthful big city of Barcelona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Barcelona?

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful city of Barcelona. 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 Hong Kong or Barcelona?

Hong Kong is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hong Kong, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona 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 Barcelona, 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 Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Hong Kong and Barcelona, 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. Even though Hong Kong is in Asia and Barcelona 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 Hong Kong Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Barcelona?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Barcelona. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and Barcelona, 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.