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

Should you visit Melbourne or Valletta?

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

Should I visit Melbourne 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.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a friendly, cultural, and progressive city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Valletta

Valletta is a charming, cultural, and waterfront town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Melbourne and Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Melbourne or Valletta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Melbourne. Although Melbourne and Valletta are both popular with visitors, Melbourne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Melbourne is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Valletta is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Melbourne is popular for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. It is also home to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Melbourne different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Valletta is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Valletta are world-renowned. 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.

Many visitors head to Melbourne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

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

Valletta is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Valletta is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

Dining out in Melbourne is an experience not to be missed. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Is Melbourne or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Melbourne is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Melbourne has a large number of nightlife venues. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

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 Melbourne or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Melbourne is a very popular place for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

The beaches at Melbourne attract visitors from all over. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

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 Melbourne or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is very popular for its old town. However, Melbourne does not have a historic old town.

Valletta has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Melbourne does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or Valletta?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Melbourne and Valletta.

Melbourne is well-known for its shopping. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Valletta. 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 Melbourne or Valletta Better for Families?

Melbourne 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 Melbourne. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

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 Melbourne or Valletta Better for Couples?

Valletta is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Melbourne is a good city for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Melbourne or Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Melbourne or Valletta Better for Students?

Melbourne is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta is not popular with students.

Melbourne is a very popular city for students. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Melbourne. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

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 Melbourne or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Valletta. 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.

Melbourne is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

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

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Melbourne?

How long in Melbourne or Valletta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Melbourne and Valletta. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Melbourne than in Valletta. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Melbourne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Valletta.

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

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

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

One day in Melbourne or Valletta?

Melbourne is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Valletta. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Valletta has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Melbourne or Valletta?

Melbourne 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Melbourne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the waterfront destination of Valletta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Melbourne or Valletta?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural town of Valletta. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Melbourne or Valletta?

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Valletta is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Melbourne and Valletta, we can see that Melbourne is more expensive. And not only is Valletta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Melbourne is in Pacific and Valletta 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 Valletta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Valletta 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 Melbourne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Melbourne than you might in Valletta.

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

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or Valletta?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 550 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne 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 Melbourne or Valletta?

Melbourne 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 Melbourne or Valletta in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Melbourne is cooler than Valletta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Melbourne in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Valletta averages at about 26°C (79°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Valletta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Melbourne. Melbourne usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during summer. Melbourne gets 271 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Melbourne usually receives more rain than Vallettain July. Melbourne gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Melbourne or Valletta in the Autumn?

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

In April, Melbourne is generally cooler than Vallettain October. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 15°C (60°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Melbourne often gets less sunshine than Vallettain October. Melbourne gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets less rain in April than Vallettain October. Melbourne gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Melbourne or Valletta in the Winter?

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

Melbourne is cooler than Valletta in the winter. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 9°C (49°F) in July, and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in January.

Melbourne usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during winter. Melbourne gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Melbourne usually receives less rain than Vallettain January. Melbourne gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Melbourne or Valletta in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Melbourne is cooler than Valletta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Melbourne in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Valletta averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Melbourne this time of the year. In the spring, Melbourne often gets less sunshine than Vallettain April. Melbourne gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets more rain in October than Vallettain April. Melbourne gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Melbourne