A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Tenerife vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Tenerife or Barcelona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tenerife or Barcelona, 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.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a beautiful, volcanic, and scenic island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a colorful, laid-back, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Tenerife and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tenerife or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona. Although Tenerife and Barcelona are both popular with visitors, Barcelona has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Barcelona is more popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Tenerife is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Tenerife is popular for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. Barcelona is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also home to Basilica Sagrada Familia.

How is Tenerife different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tenerife or Barcelona?

Barcelona is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Barcelona can be an interesting and educational experience. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

Is the Food Better in Tenerife or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Barcelona. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

The first-rate nightlife scene is relatively similar in Tenerife and Barcelona.

Tenerife is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

People head to Barcelona just to party. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is very popular for live music. However, Tenerife is not a live music destination.

Barcelona is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Tenerife is not a live music destination.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Barcelona is not a resort destination.

In Tenerife, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Barcelona is not a resort destination.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tenerife is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Tenerife is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

The beaches at Tenerife attract visitors from all over. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Barcelona to see the historical old town. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Around Tenerife visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tenerife or Barcelona?

Barcelona is very popular for shopping. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Barcelona. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Tenerife is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Families?

Tenerife is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Tenerife is an extremely popular island to visit for families. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

Barcelona is a family-friendly island. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Tenerife is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Tenerife is a very popular place to visit for couples. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Tenerife is a good island to visit for backpackers. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Tenerife is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a great destination for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Tenerife is not popular with students.

Is Tenerife or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Public transit in Barcelona is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

You'll find some public transit in Tenerife, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

Is Tenerife or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Tenerife is a island with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Tenerife is somewhat walkable. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable island. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Tenerife Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Tenerife?

How long in Tenerife or Barcelona?

Both Tenerife and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Barcelona has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Barcelona than Tenerife. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Tenerife 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 Barcelona.

One day in Tenerife or Barcelona?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Tenerife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona 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.

A weekend in Tenerife or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the adventure-filled destination of Tenerife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona 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.

Five days in Tenerife or Barcelona?

You'll find nightlife and food around the volcanic island of Tenerife. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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

A week in Tenerife or Barcelona?

Tenerife is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tenerife, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Tenerife or Barcelona?

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 Tenerife or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tenerife as well as Barcelona. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tenerife is around the same temperature as Barcelona in the summer. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tenerife this time of the year. In the summer, Tenerife often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Tenerife gets 268 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Tenerife usually gets less rain in July than Barcelona. Tenerife gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Tenerife are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tenerife for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tenerife is a little warmer than Barcelona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tenerife in October average around 22°C (72°F), and Barcelona averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tenerife. Tenerife usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Tenerife gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Tenerife gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tenerife or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Tenerife during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tenerife in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Tenerife is generally much warmer than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Tenerife average around 17°C (63°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Tenerife often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Tenerife gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Tenerife usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Barcelona. Tenerife gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tenerife and Barcelona. Most visitors come to Tenerife for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Tenerife is a little warmer than Barcelona in the spring. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 18°C (64°F) in April, and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Tenerife, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tenerife usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during spring. Tenerife gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Tenerife gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Tenerife