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

Should you visit Valencia or Heidelberg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Heidelberg, 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a lively, charming, and scenic town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Valencia and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Heidelberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia than Heidelberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Valencia is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Heidelberg is known for its quaint atmosphere. Valencia is popular for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). It is also home to La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

How is Valencia different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valencia is a great coastal city for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Valencia or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

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.

Heidelberg offers plenty to do in the evening. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Is Valencia or Heidelberg Better for Resorts?

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

Valencia has a few great resort options. 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.

Heidelberg is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Heidelberg Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a good destination for the beach. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Valencia and Heidelberg both have world-class 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).

Heidelberg has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Is Valencia or Heidelberg Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a good destination for hiking. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Heidelberg?

Valencia is a great coastal city for its shopping areas. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Valencia or Heidelberg Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Valencia. 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Valencia or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Valencia and Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Is Valencia or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia and Heidelberg are great 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 Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Is Valencia or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for 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.

Heidelberg is a good coastal city to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

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

Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg has some very good public transit options. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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 Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Valencia and Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Heidelberg?

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

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

When visiting Valencia, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful town of Heidelberg offers nightlife and food. 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 Heidelberg?

When visiting Valencia, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city.

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

Five days in Valencia or Heidelberg?

Valencia, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg?

Valencia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Heidelberg 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 town 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Heidelberg?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg?

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 Heidelberg in the Summer?

Both Heidelberg and Valencia during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Valencia is a little warmer than Heidelberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valencia in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In Heidelberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the summer, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Heidelberg. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Heidelberg. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Valencia is generally much warmer than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 19°C (66°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Heidelberg. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Heidelberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Heidelberg. Most visitors come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Heidelberg can be very cold. Valencia is much warmer than Heidelberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Heidelberg. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Heidelberg in the Spring?

Both Heidelberg and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. 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 Heidelberg this time of year.

In the spring, Valencia is a little warmer than Heidelberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valencia in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Valencia