A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Valletta for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Valletta 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a vibrant, historic, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Valletta

Valletta is a cultural, waterfront, and historic 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 nightlife.

Thiva (Thebes) and Valletta: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valletta. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Valletta are both popular with visitors, Valletta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Valletta is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Thiva (Thebes) is known for its big city activities. Thiva (Thebes) is popular for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. It is also home to The Grand Masters Palace.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

Valletta is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Valletta are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

Valletta is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

It's hard to distinguish whether Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta has a better nightlife scene.

Thiva (Thebes) has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

If you're looking for night time activities Valletta has a few options to choose from. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

Valletta is a town with a few options for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Valletta. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

Valletta is very popular for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

Valletta is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Valletta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Valletta are good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Valletta offers lots of family activities. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

Valletta is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Valletta is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

Valletta is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Valletta is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Valletta.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

While Valletta offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Valletta

Valletta is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Valletta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Valletta than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Valletta 1-3

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

The city of Thiva (Thebes) offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Valletta, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

Thiva (Thebes) 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Thiva (Thebes), a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Valletta is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Valletta. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

Thiva (Thebes) is a great place to explore. 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 town of Valletta. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.


Which place is cheaper, Valletta or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Valletta is €116. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thiva (Thebes) and Valletta in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Valletta 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Valletta 130
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Valletta

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Valletta


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Valletta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Valletta 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Valletta

Also for Valletta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Malta Airport Private Transfers: $66
  • Afternoon Harbours Cruise with Guide and Roundtrip Transfers: $39
  • Airport Transfers (Private Group up to 15 people): $103
  • Airport transfers to all locations in Malta (Private Groups or Families): $81
  • Arrival Transfer: Malta Airport MLA to Malta Island by Van: $49
  • Departure Transfer: Malta Island to Malta Airport MLA by Van: $47
  • From Malta: Gozo Jeep Tour with Lunch and Hotel Transfers: $88
  • From Private Malta Highlights Tour with Transfer: $151
  • Malta Airport (MLA) Departure Transfer (Saint Julian's Hotels to Malta Airport): $49
  • Malta Airport Transfers : $38
  • Malta Intl Airport (MLA) to Valletta Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $28
  • Malta Private Airport Transfer - Arrival: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

Prices for flights to both Valletta and Thiva (Thebes) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Valletta 32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Valletta

For Valletta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Valletta Food Tour - Eat like a local: $46
  • Valletta Food Tour: $49
  • Folklore Evening Dinner Show at a Traditional Maltese Restaurant Incl. Transfers: $67
  • Maltese Traditional Dinner and Folklore Show with Transfers: $71
  • Fireworks Festival Cruise Including Dinner, Drinks and Transport: $77
  • The Ultimate Valletta Evening Food Tour: $81
  • Fernandes Sunset Cruise including Dinner with Open Bar: $81
  • Christmas Tour in Gozo (afternoon) inc. Dinner: $87
  • Blue Lagoon & Sunset Quad Tour in Gozo/Dinner: $101
  • From Blue Lagoon and Gozo Tour w/Quads and Dinner: $118
  • The Valletta Food Tour Experience, a private tour: $150
  • Private Valletta Food Tour: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Valletta 27

Tours and Activities in Valletta

For Valletta, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.23
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.46
  • Reliving The Sacra Infermeria Augmented Reality Tour: $6.55
  • 30-Minute Mdina Experience Audio-Visual Show Ticket (Open Ticket): $6.55
  • Valletta Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • The Knights of Malta Museum Entry Ticket: $7.10
  • City Nobles App Tour + Malta5D Entry (optional): $7.53
  • Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour (Audio Guide): $7.53
  • City Nobles App Tour + Optional Malta 5D Show Ticket: $7.64
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $8.07
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour, Map and Directions: $8.61
  • Entry Ticket for The Limestone Heritage Park and Gardens : $9.85

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Valletta 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Valletta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Valletta:

  • Valletta Pub Crawl: $22
  • Malta Pub Crawl: $22
  • The Brewery Experience Self-Guided Tour with Tasting & Transport: $35
  • The Brewery Experience & beer tasting including transport: $35
  • Malta: The Three Cities and Wine Tasting Tour: $44


When comparing the travel costs between Thiva (Thebes) and Valletta, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Valletta Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

Thiva (Thebes) has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta?

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Valletta. The summer months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Valletta averages at about 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in July than Valletta. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Valletta 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta in the Autumn?

Both Valletta and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) is generally around the same temperature as Valletta. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 19°C (67°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta during autumn. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Valletta. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Valletta 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta in the Winter?

Both Valletta and Thiva (Thebes) during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

Thiva (Thebes) is cooler than Valletta in the winter. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in January than Valletta. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Valletta 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Valletta in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Valletta. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the spring for the activities around the city. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Valletta averages at about 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during spring. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Valletta. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Valletta 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Valletta and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Valletta
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (61°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)


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