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

Should you visit Valencia or Budapest?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Budapest, 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 architectural, friendly, and coastal coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Budapest

Budapest is a artistic, historic, and authentic 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Budapest?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Valencia than Budapest. While Budapest is larger than Valencia, Valencia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Valencia is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Budapest is more popular for its big city activities. Valencia is well known for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). Also, Valencia is famous for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Budapest is well known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.

How is Valencia different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Valencia and Budapest.

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 Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Valencia is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Valencia or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Valencia or Budapest Better for Resorts?

Valencia is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Budapest is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Valencia makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Budapest Better for Beaches?

Valencia is very good for the beache. However, Budapest is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Valencia to enjoy the beach. 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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

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

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 go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is Valencia or Budapest Better for Hiking?

Valencia is very good for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Valencia. 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Budapest?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Budapest and Valencia.

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Valencia or Budapest Better for Families?

Valencia is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Valencia is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Valencia or Budapest Better for Couples?

Valencia and Budapest are both excellent 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.

Budapest is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Valencia or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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.

Is Valencia or Budapest Better for Students?

Valencia and Budapest are terrific places to visit for students.

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.

Budapest is a very popular coastal city for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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

Budapest 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 Budapest is top-notch. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Valencia or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest 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 Budapest on foot is easy. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Budapest?

In either Valencia or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Valencia because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

Families should spend more time in Valencia than Budapest. 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 Budapest. 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 Budapest than Valencia 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 Budapest.

One day in Valencia or Budapest?

Valencia is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

The beautiful city of Budapest offers nightlife and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Budapest?

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

Budapest 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Budapest, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valencia or Budapest?

Valencia 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.

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

A week in Valencia or Budapest?

Valencia 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 coastal city offers something for everyone.

Budapest 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 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valencia and Budapest, we can see that Valencia is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Valencia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Valencia than you might in Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Valencia. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest in the Summer?

Both Budapest and Valencia during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Budapest because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Valencia is a little warmer than Budapest in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Budapest, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the summer, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Budapest. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Budapest in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Budapest. The autumn months attract visitors to Valencia because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

In the autumn, Valencia is much warmer than Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Budapest. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Budapest in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Budapest. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Budapest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Budapest. In January, Valencia is generally much warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Budapest. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Budapest in the Spring?

Both Budapest and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Budapest in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Valencia is a little warmer than Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Budapest. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Valencia