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

Should you visit Tokyo or Valencia?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Valencia? 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.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a iconic, eclectic, and cutting edge city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Valencia

Valencia is a historic, architectural, and friendly coastal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Valencia?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Valencia than Tokyo. While Tokyo is larger than Valencia, Valencia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Valencia is more popular for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Tokyo is known for its museums, music, shopping, and big city activities. Tokyo is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Valencia is popular for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). It is also home to La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències.

How is Tokyo different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tokyo are among the most recognizable in the world. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 Tokyo or Valencia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at fantastic restaurants in both Tokyo and Valencia.

For foodies, Tokyo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Valencia has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Tokyo or Valencia Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is fantastic in both Tokyo and Valencia.

Tokyo is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Valencia has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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 Tokyo or Valencia Better for Music?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Valencia is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Tokyo The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Valencia is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Valencia Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.

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.

Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Is Tokyo or Valencia Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a popular place for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Valencia is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is Tokyo or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Valencia is one of the most recognized in the world. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is Tokyo or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a popular place for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Valencia is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Valencia?

Tokyo is an amazing city 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 Tokyo make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

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 Tokyo or Valencia Better for Families?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Valencia. 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 Tokyo or Valencia Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Tokyo and Valencia make for a very good place to visit.

Tokyo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Valencia is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Tokyo or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Tokyo or Valencia Better for Students?

For students, both Tokyo and Valencia are fantastic places to visit.

Many students frequent Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Students come from all over the world to visit Valencia. 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.

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

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Tokyo is top-notch. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Tokyo or Valencia a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an amazing city 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 Tokyo on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

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 Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Valencia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Valencia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tokyo and Valencia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Valencia. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Valencia.

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

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

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

Tokyo is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Valencia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this coastal big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tokyo or Valencia?

Tokyo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tokyo or Valencia?

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

Valencia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Valencia. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Valencia?

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal big city of Valencia. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle 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 Tokyo and Valencia, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Valencia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tokyo 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 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 Tokyo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tokyo 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 Tokyo Expensive? and Is Valencia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Valencia?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Valencia. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo 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 Tokyo 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 Tokyo or Valencia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Valencia. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Valencia in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Valencia. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. In the summer, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Valencia. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 303 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tokyo usually gets more rain in July than Valencia. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Valencia in the Autumn?

Both Valencia and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Valencia for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Valencia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Valencia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during autumn. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In October, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Valencia. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tokyo or Valencia in the Winter?

Both Valencia and Tokyo during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Valencia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tokyo is much colder than Valencia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Valencia averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Valencia. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 162 hours of full sun.

Tokyo usually gets more rain in January than Valencia. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Valencia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Valencia. The spring months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Valencia this time of year.

In April, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Valencia. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during spring. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Valencia. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Tokyo