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

Should you visit Nagano or Valencia?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nagano and Valencia can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nagano

Nagano is a historic, traditional, and alpine city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Valencia

Valencia is a coastal, cultural, and historic coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Nagano and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Valencia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Valencia than Nagano. Valencia is bigger than Nagano, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Valencia is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Nagano is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Nagano is well known for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. 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 Nagano different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Valencia Better for Skiing?

Nagano is well known for winter skiing. However, Valencia is not a skiing destination.

People head to Nagano specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Valencia is not a skiing destination.

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Nagano and Valencia.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nagano. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

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.

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

Valencia is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Dining out in Nagano is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Is Nagano or Valencia Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Valencia is a must-see 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.

Nagano offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

Is Nagano or Valencia Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Nagano and Valencia have notable options.

With a selection of resorts, Nagano makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

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 Nagano or Valencia Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for the beache. However, Nagano is not a beach destination.

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.

Nagano is not a beach destination.

Is Nagano or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is terrific for its old town. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Valencia has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Nagano offers a nice historic old town area. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Is Nagano or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Nagano is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nagano. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Valencia. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Valencia?

Valencia is a great coastal city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Nagano or Valencia Better for Families?

Both Nagano and Valencia are high quality to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nagano is very family-friendly. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

Valencia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Nagano or Valencia Better for Couples?

Valencia is a great coastal city for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Valencia is a great coastal city 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.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Nagano or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a great coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nagano. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Nagano or Valencia Better for Students?

Valencia is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Valencia is a very popular coastal city 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.

Nagano is a good city to visit for students. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

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

Nagano and Valencia both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Nagano offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Valencia has a few 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 Nagano or Valencia a more walkable city?

Valencia is a great coastal city for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal 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.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Valencia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nagano and Valencia. In our opinion, Valencia has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Valencia than Nagano. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagano, and 2-3 days is enough time in Valencia.

Families should spend more time in Valencia than Nagano. 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 Nagano. 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 Valencia than Nagano 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 Nagano or Valencia?

The beautiful city of Nagano offers museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Valencia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Valencia?

Nagano 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nagano, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Valencia 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 Nagano or Valencia?

Nagano 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. 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 Nagano or Valencia?

Nagano is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal big city of Valencia. This coastal city 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 Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, 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 Nagano and Valencia, we can see that Valencia is more expensive. And not only is Nagano much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Nagano is in Asia and Valencia 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 Nagano would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nagano 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 Valencia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Valencia than you might in Nagano.

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Valencia?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Nagano 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 Nagano or Valencia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nagano or Valencia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Valencia. Most visitors come to Nagano for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Nagano is around the same temperature as Valencia in the summer. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Valencia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. In the summer, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Valencia. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 303 hours of full sun.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagano usually gets more rain in July than Valencia. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Valencia in the Autumn?

Both Valencia and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Valencia this time of year.

In the autumn, Nagano is cooler than Valencia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nagano in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Valencia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during autumn. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. In October, Nagano usually receives more rain than Valencia. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nagano or Valencia in the Winter?

Both Valencia and Nagano during the winter are popular places to visit. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Nagano in the winter. In January, Nagano is generally much colder than Valencia. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 2°C (36°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Nagano. In the winter, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Valencia. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 162 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually gets more rain in January than Valencia. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Valencia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Valencia. Many travelers come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Valencia in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Nagano is cooler than Valencia in the spring. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Valencia fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during spring. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nagano usually receives more rain than Valencia. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Nagano