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

Should you visit Valencia or Florence?

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

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

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Florence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Valencia than Florence. Valencia is bigger than Florence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Valencia is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Florence is more popular for its museums. Florence is more touristy than Valencia and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. 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.

How is Valencia different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is an amazing city 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 Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Florence 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 Florence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Valencia or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Valencia is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Valencia or Florence Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Florence Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Valencia and Florence both have amazing 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).

Florence has a world-famous historical area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is Valencia or Florence Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

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.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Florence?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Florence 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 Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Valencia or Florence Better for Families?

Valencia is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Valencia or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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.

Is Valencia or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence 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 Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young 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 Florence Better for Students?

Valencia and Florence are amazing 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.

Florence is a very popular coastal city for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Is Valencia or Florence 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 Florence.

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 Florence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Valencia or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence 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 Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city 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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Florence?

Both Valencia and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Valencia. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Valencia or Florence?

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 Florence offers food 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 Florence?

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.

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

Five days in Valencia or Florence?

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.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, 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 Florence?

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.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valencia and Florence, we can see that Florence 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 Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence 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 Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Florence?

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

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 Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Valencia during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Valencia is around the same temperature as Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Florence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the summer, Valencia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Florence. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Valencia or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Florence. 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 Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Valencia is a little warmer than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Florence during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Florence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Florence. Many travelers come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Florence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Valencia is generally much warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Florence. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Florence. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Valencia in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the natural beauty during these months.

Valencia is around the same temperature as Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Florence during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Florence. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Valencia