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

Should you visit Mykonos or Valencia?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mykonos and Valencia. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia

Valencia is a cultural, historic, and architectural coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mykonos and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mykonos or Valencia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Valencia than Mykonos. Valencia is bigger than Mykonos, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Valencia is better known for its museums, hiking, and big city activities, while Mykonos is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Mykonos is more touristy than Valencia and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Valencia is well known for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). Also, Valencia is famous for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències.

How is Mykonos different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Valencia is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

Is the Food Better in Mykonos or Valencia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Valencia can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Mykonos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

For foodies, Valencia is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Mykonos or Valencia Better for Nightlife?

Both Mykonos and Valencia are world-class when it comes to partying.

The nightlife in Mykonos is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

Valencia is a world class party destination. 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 Mykonos or Valencia Better for Resorts?

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its resorts. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Mykonos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

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 Mykonos or Valencia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Mykonos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Valencia Better for Beaches?

Mykonos is well known for the beache. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mykonos. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Valencia. 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 Mykonos or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Mykonos and Valencia.

With a famous historical old-town, Mykonos offers plenty to see. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

The rich history of Valencia can be explored in its historical center. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Is Mykonos or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its hiking trails.

Valencia offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Valencia?

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island 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 Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

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 Mykonos or Valencia Better for Families?

Valencia is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

Valencia is a very kid-friendly coastal city. 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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Is Mykonos or Valencia Better for Couples?

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Mykonos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Valencia is a great Greek island 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.

Is Mykonos or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Valencia is a great coastal city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

Is Mykonos or Valencia Better for Students?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

Valencia is a very popular place to visit 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.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Both Mykonos and Valencia offer notable public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Valencia has some 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 Mykonos or Valencia a more walkable city?

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Mykonos on foot is easy. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Valencia?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Valencia than Mykonos 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 Mykonos or Valencia?

The beautiful Greek island of Mykonos offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Because Valencia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Mykonos or Valencia?

Mykonos 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.

Because Valencia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Valencia has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Valencia?

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

Valencia is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Mykonos or Valencia?

Mykonos 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 Greek island offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valencia. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, 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 Mykonos and Valencia, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Valencia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Mykonos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mykonos 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 Mykonos Expensive? and Is Valencia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Valencia?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Mykonos. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos 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.