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

Should you visit Valencia or Austin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Austin, 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.

Valencia

Valencia is a friendly, coastal, and cultural coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Valencia and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Austin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valencia than Austin. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Valencia is very popular for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Austin attracts visitors for its music. Valencia is more touristy than Austin and is known for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). It is also well known for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

How is Valencia different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Valencia and Austin.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Valencia can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Austin can be difficult as they are each amazing in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Valencia is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Many restaurants in Austin have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Valencia and Austin.

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.

Austin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for Music?

Austin 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 Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Valencia is not a live music destination.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Austin is not a resort destination.

Valencia has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

Valencia has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Valencia is revered around 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).

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

Valencia has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Austin?

Valencia is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Valencia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for Families?

Valencia is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Valencia is 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for Couples?

Valencia is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Valencia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia and Austin are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Valencia is a great coastal city to visit for backpackers. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Is Valencia or Austin Better for Students?

Valencia is a world-class destination for students. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Valencia is a great destination 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Valencia is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Valencia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Valencia or Austin a more walkable city?

Valencia is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Valencia is very walkable. 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.

Austin is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Valencia and Austin. In our opinion, Valencia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Valencia than Austin. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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.

The city of Austin offers museums and nightlife. 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 Valencia or Austin?

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.

Austin 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 Austin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valencia or Austin?

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.

Austin 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.

A week in Valencia or Austin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural 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.

Austin 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Valencia and Austin, we can see that Austin 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. Even though Valencia is in Europe and Austin is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Austin?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Austin. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Austin, 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 Valencia or Austin?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Valencia or Austin in the Summer?

Both Austin and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In July, Valencia is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°F), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Austin during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Austin. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Valencia during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Valencia is cooler than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Austin. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in October than Austin. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Austin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Austin. Many travelers come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Austin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Valencia is around the same temperature as Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Austin during winter. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than Austin. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Austin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Austin. Many visitors come to Valencia in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Valencia is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the spring, Valencia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Austin. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Valencia