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

Should you visit Lisbon or Valletta?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Valletta? 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Valletta

Valletta is a charming, cultural, and waterfront town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Valletta?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Valletta are popular destinations, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Valletta and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Valletta is famous for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Lisbon different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lisbon or Valletta?

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Valletta and Lisbon.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Valletta that are not to be missed. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Is the Food Better in Lisbon or Valletta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Valletta can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Valletta has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Is Lisbon or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Lisbon is a must-see party destination. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Lisbon or Valletta Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for its music scene. However, Valletta is not a live music destination.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Valletta is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a city with good options for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Lisbon. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Is Lisbon or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the terrific old towns in both Lisbon and Valletta.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

The rich history of Valletta can be explored in its historical center. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Valletta?

Lisbon is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Valletta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Is Lisbon or Valletta Better for Families?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Lisbon or Valletta Better for Couples?

Valletta is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Valletta makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Lisbon or Valletta Better for Students?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Valletta is not popular with students.

Is Lisbon or Valletta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisbon is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

You'll find some public transit in Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Lisbon or Valletta a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Valletta are terrific when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Getting around Valletta on foot is easy. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

For even more information, also check out Is Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Valletta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Valletta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Valletta. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Valletta. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Valletta.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Valletta 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Valletta?

Lisbon 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Valletta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Valletta?

Lisbon 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.

Valletta is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Valletta?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valletta. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Valletta?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Valletta. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Valletta?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Valletta, 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 Lisbon or Valletta?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Valletta in the Summer?

Both Valletta and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Lisbon is cooler than Valletta in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Valletta fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Valletta. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Valletta in the Autumn?

Both Valletta and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

In the autumn, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Valletta averages at about 21°C (70°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Valletta. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Valletta in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Valletta. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Valletta. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lisbon usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Valletta. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Valletta in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Valletta. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Valletta in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Valletta fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Valletta. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Lisbon