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

Should you visit Valencia or Bari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Bari, 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Valencia and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia than Bari, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Valencia is more touristy than Bari and 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. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Valencia different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Valencia and Bari.

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 Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Bari 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 Bari have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

Is Valencia or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Valencia is a must-see party destination. 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.

Bari offers plenty to do in the evening. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Is Valencia or Bari Better for Resorts?

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

Bari is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Bari Better for Beaches?

Both Valencia and Bari have good beaches worth visiting.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Bari. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Is Valencia or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Valencia has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is Valencia or Bari Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a good destination for hiking. However, Bari 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.

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Bari?

Valencia is a great coastal city for its shopping areas. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Valencia or Bari Better for Families?

Valencia and Bari are both great destinations for the whole family.

Valencia is a very kid-friendly coastal city. 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 family-friendly things to do in Bari. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

Is Valencia or Bari Better for Couples?

Valencia is a great coastal city for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Valencia is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Valencia or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia and Bari are great 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 Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Is Valencia or Bari Better for Students?

Valencia is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for 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.

Bari is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Is Valencia or Bari 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 Bari.

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 Bari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Valencia or Bari a more walkable city?

Valencia and Bari both are great when exploring on foot.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal city. 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.

Bari is a very walkable destination. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Valencia and Bari. In our opinion, Valencia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Valencia than Bari. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

Valencia is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The port city of Bari offers 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 Bari?

Valencia is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bari is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city 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 Bari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valencia or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural big city of Valencia. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bari is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Bari?

The architectural coastal city of Valencia offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Bari is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 port 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Valencia and Bari, we can see that Valencia 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 Valencia Expensive? and Is Bari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Bari?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Bari, 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 Bari?

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 Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Valencia during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the summer, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Bari. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bari. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Bari. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 19°C (66°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

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

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Bari. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Bari. Most visitors come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Bari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Valencia is a little warmer than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Bari. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Bari. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In the spring, Valencia is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valencia in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives more rain than Bari. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Valencia