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

Should you visit Istanbul or Valencia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Valencia, 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.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Istanbul is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Istanbul travel costs.

Valencia

Valencia is a friendly, coastal, and cultural coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty in Valencia as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Valencia travel costs.

Istanbul and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Valencia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Valencia. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums and attractions and big city activities, while Valencia attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Istanbul is more touristy than Valencia and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Valencia is famous for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella).

How is Istanbul different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Istanbul are among the most recognizable in the world. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Valencia. 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 Istanbul or Valencia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Valencia can be difficult as they are each amazing in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Istanbul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

Many restaurants in Valencia have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Is Istanbul or Valencia Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for nightlife. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Valencia has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

Is Istanbul or Valencia Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Valencia has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Is Istanbul or Valencia Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

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.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Valencia both have amazing historical old towns that attract visitors.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Valencia has a world-famous historical area. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Is Istanbul or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Valencia has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Valencia?

Both Istanbul and Valencia are superb shopping destinations.

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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.

Is Istanbul or Valencia More Beautiful?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Valencia as well. With its impressive architecture and coastal setting, it's really hard not to fall in love with this city's beauty.

The beauty of Istanbul is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

Is Istanbul or Valencia Better for Families?

Istanbul and Valencia are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Valencia is very family-friendly. 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 Istanbul or Valencia Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Valencia are both superb to visit as a couple.

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

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.

Is Istanbul or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Istanbul. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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.

Is Istanbul or Valencia Better for Students?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for students. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Istanbul or Valencia a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Valencia both are superb when exploring on foot.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

Valencia is a very walkable 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Valencia?

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

Families should spend more time in Valencia than Istanbul. 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 Istanbul. 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 Istanbul than Valencia 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 Istanbul.

One day in Istanbul or Valencia?

Istanbul 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.

The beautiful coastal city of Valencia offers food and shopping. 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 Istanbul or Valencia?

Istanbul 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.

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 Istanbul or Valencia?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Istanbul or Valencia?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul has to offer. 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 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Valencia?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Valencia. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Valencia?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Istanbul or Valencia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Valencia. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Valencia this time of year.

In the summer, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Valencia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Valencia averages at about 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Valencia during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Valencia. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Valencia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Valencia. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Valencia for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Istanbul is generally cooler than Valencia. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Valencia. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Valencia. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Valencia in the Winter?

Both Valencia and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Valencia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Istanbul is much colder than Valencia in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Valencia fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Valencia. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Valencia in the Spring?

Both Valencia and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Istanbul is cooler than Valencia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Valencia averages at about 15°C (60°F).

In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Valencia. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 213 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Valencia. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Istanbul