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

Should you visit Valencia or Ghent?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Ghent, 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Ghent

Ghent is a cultural, historic, and under-rated 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 Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Ghent?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valencia than Ghent. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Valencia is more touristy than Ghent 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. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Valencia different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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

Valencia is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Ghent has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Valencia or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Valencia and Ghent.

Valencia has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Ghent is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

Is Valencia or Ghent Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a good destination for its resorts. However, Ghent 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.

Ghent is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Ghent Better for Beaches?

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

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The historic old town of Valencia is revered around 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).

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Is Valencia or Ghent Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent 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.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Ghent?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Ghent 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 Ghent. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Valencia or Ghent Better for Families?

Valencia is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly coastal city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Valencia or Ghent Better for Couples?

Valencia and Ghent are both great 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.

Ghent is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Valencia or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Valencia or Ghent Better for Students?

Valencia and Ghent are world-class 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.

Ghent is a very popular coastal city for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

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

Ghent 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 Ghent is top-notch. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent a more walkable city?

Valencia and Ghent 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.

Ghent is a very walkable destination. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Ghent?

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

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

Each neighborhood in Valencia has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful city of Ghent 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 Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Five days in Valencia or Ghent?

Valencia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Valencia. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Ghent is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 Ghent?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic big city of Valencia. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ghent is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Ghent?

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

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 Ghent in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Ghent. Many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ghent in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ghent this time of the year. In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Ghent. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Ghent in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Ghent. 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. Additionally, most visitors come to Ghent for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in October than Ghent. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Ghent in the Winter?

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

The weather in Ghent can be very cold. In the winter, Valencia is much warmer than Ghent. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Ghent averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during winter. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than Ghent. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Ghent in the Spring?

Both Ghent and Valencia during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

In April, Valencia is generally much warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the spring, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Ghent. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Valencia