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

Should you visit Valencia or Galway?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Galway, 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 coastal, cultural, and historic coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Galway

Galway is a friendly, cultural, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia and Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Galway?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valencia than Galway. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Valencia is more touristy than Galway and is known 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. Galway is famous for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Valencia different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valencia is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Galway offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

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

Valencia is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Valencia have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Valencia or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

Galway has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Valencia or Galway Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for its resorts. However, Galway 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.

Galway is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Galway Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for its beaches. However, Galway is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Valencia. 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.

Galway is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Galway Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Galway does not have a historic old town.

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

Galway does not have a historic old town.

Is Valencia or Galway Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Galway is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Galway?

Valencia is notable for shopping. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Valencia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Galway. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Valencia or Galway Better for Families?

Valencia is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Valencia is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Galway is a family-friendly coastal city. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Valencia or Galway Better for Couples?

Valencia is notable for romance. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Valencia is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Valencia or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia and Galway are high quality 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 Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Valencia or Galway Better for Students?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Valencia is a very popular coastal city 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.

Plenty of students visit Galway. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Is Valencia or Galway 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 Galway.

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 Galway offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

Is Valencia or Galway a more walkable city?

Valencia and Galway both are high quality 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.

Galway is a very walkable destination. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Galway?

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

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

Valencia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Galway offers food and shopping. 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 Galway?

Valencia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Valencia or Galway?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Galway 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 Galway?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the architectural big city of Valencia. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Galway 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Galway?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Galway, 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 Galway?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Valencia or Galway in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Galway. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Galway for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Valencia is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°F), and Galway fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Galway during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Galway. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Galway in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Galway. Many travelers come to Valencia for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Galway in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Valencia is much warmer than Galway in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Galway fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Galway. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Galway. Valencia usually gets less rain in October than Galway. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Galway in the Winter?

Both Galway and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Valencia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Galway for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Valencia is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Galway averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Galway during winter. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Galway. In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than Galway. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Galway in the Spring?

Both Galway and Valencia during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Galway because of the activities around the city.

In April, Valencia is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and Galway fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the spring, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Galway. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Galway. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Galway and Valencia