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

Should you visit Valencia or Avignon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Avignon, 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 cultural, historic, and architectural coastal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Avignon

Avignon is a picturesque, historical, and quaint town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Valencia and Avignon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Avignon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia than Avignon, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Valencia is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Avignon is known for its museums and small town charm. 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. Avignon is popular for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

How is Valencia different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Avignon 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 Avignon?

Avignon is an amazing town 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 Avignon are among the most recognizable in the world. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

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 Valencia or Avignon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Avignon can be difficult as they are each world-class 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 Avignon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

Is Valencia or Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Valencia is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Valencia or Avignon Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Avignon 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.

Avignon is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Avignon Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a good destination for the beach. However, Avignon is not a beach destination.

Valencia offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

Valencia and Avignon both have world-class historical old towns that attract visitors.

Valencia offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Avignon has a world-famous historical area. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

Is Valencia or Avignon Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Avignon is not a hiking destination.

Valencia offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Avignon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Avignon?

Valencia is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Valencia or Avignon Better for Families?

Valencia is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Valencia or Avignon Better for Couples?

Valencia and Avignon are both great to visit as a couple.

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.

Avignon is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Is Valencia or Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Valencia or Avignon Better for Students?

Valencia is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Avignon is not popular with students.

Valencia is a very popular place to visit 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.

Avignon is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Valencia and Avignon.

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.

While Avignon offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Is Valencia or Avignon a more walkable city?

Avignon is an amazing town 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 Avignon on foot is easy. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

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 Valencia Worth Visiting? and Is Avignon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Avignon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Valencia or Avignon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Valencia than Avignon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 1-2 days is enough time in Avignon.

Families should spend more time in Valencia than Avignon. 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 Avignon. 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 Avignon 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 Avignon?

Because Valencia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Avignon is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Valencia or Avignon?

Because Valencia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Valencia has to offer.

Avignon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Avignon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valencia or Avignon?

Valencia is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Avignon 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 Avignon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valencia. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Avignon is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valencia and Avignon, we can see that Avignon is more expensive. And not only is Valencia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Avignon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avignon 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 Valencia Expensive? and Is Avignon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Avignon?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Avignon. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Avignon, 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 Avignon?

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 Valencia or Avignon in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Valencia is around the same temperature as Avignon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valencia in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Avignon averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Avignon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the summer, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 354 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Avignon. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Avignon in the Autumn?

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

In October, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Avignon. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 19°C (66°F), and Avignon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Avignon during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Avignon. In October, Valencia usually receives less rain than Avignon. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Avignon in the Winter?

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

Valencia is much warmer than Avignon in the winter. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Avignon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Avignon. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 146 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Avignon. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Avignon in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Valencia is a little warmer than Avignon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valencia in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Avignon averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Avignon this time of the year. In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Avignon during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Avignon. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Avignon and Valencia