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

Should you visit Valencia or Caen?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Caen, 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Caen

Caen is a park-filled, important, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia and Caen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Caen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valencia than Caen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Valencia is more touristy than Caen and is popular 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. Caen is famous for its role in World War II and its memorials and historical buildings.

How is Valencia different from Caen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Caen. There are many monuments around town commemorating the city's long history. You'll want to see Château de Caen, Pegasus Bridge, Mémorial de Caen, Musée de Normandie, and Musée des beaux-arts de Caen.

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

Valencia is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Valencia, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Caen. There's a market that's at its best on Sundays where you'll find fresh produce and other local ingredients. There are also Michelin starred restaurants, seafood restaurants, and other traditional dishes. Head to the Vaugueux Quarter for traditional dishes.

Is Valencia or Caen Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is renowned for nightlife. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Caen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene stays active thanks to the 30,000 students living in town. Head to the Rue Ecuyère for a pub crawl or hit up any of the other bars around town.

Is Valencia or Caen Better for Resorts?

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

Caen is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Caen Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a good destination for its beaches. However, Caen 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.

Caen is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Caen Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is renowned for its historic old town. However, Caen 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).

Caen does not have a historic old town.

Is Valencia or Caen Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Caen 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.

Caen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Caen?

Valencia is a very popular place for shopping. However, Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Valencia or Caen Better for Families?

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

Valencia is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Caen. There are museums, parks, monasteries, and castles that kids and adults alike with enjoy visiting.

Is Valencia or Caen Better for Couples?

Valencia is a very popular place for romance. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Valencia makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Caen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that are fascinated by history will enjoy a visit to this town in Normandy. There are also abbeys, castles and parks.

Is Valencia or Caen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Valencia is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Caen. You'll find more apartments and bed and breakfasts than hostels in town, but backpackers still make their way here.

Is Valencia or Caen Better for Students?

Valencia is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Caen 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.

Caen is not popular with students.

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

Caen is well known for its public transit. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Caen has some very good public transit options. There are buses and trams that travel throughout the city.

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 Caen a more walkable city?

Valencia is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Caen is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Caen or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Caen?

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

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

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 city of Caen offers nightlife and food. 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 Caen?

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.

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

Five days in Valencia or Caen?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly 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.

Caen 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 Caen?

The cultural 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.

Caen 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Valencia and Caen, 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 Caen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Caen?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Caen. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Caen, 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 Caen?

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 Caen in the Summer?

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

In July, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Caen. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°F), and Caen fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Caen. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the summer, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Caen. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 227 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Caen. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Caen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Caen in the Autumn?

Both Caen 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 Caen for the city's sights and attractions during these months.

Valencia is much warmer than Caen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Caen fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Caen during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 128 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Caen. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Caen receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Caen in the Winter?

Both Caen 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 Caen because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Caen can be very cold. In the winter, Valencia is much warmer than Caen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Caen averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Caen. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 70 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Caen. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Caen receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Caen in the Spring?

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

In April, Valencia is generally much warmer than Caen. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and Caen fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Caen during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 171 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Caen. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Caen receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Caen and Valencia