Which place is cheaper, Houston or Valencia?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Houston, 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 is a cultural, historic, and architectural coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.
Visitors will generally find more to do in Valencia than Houston. While Houston is larger than Valencia, Valencia has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Valencia is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Houston is more popular for its music and big city activities. Valencia is more touristy than Houston and is 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. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Houston and Valencia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Valencia and Houston.
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 Houston. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.
Valencia is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.
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.
Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.
Valencia is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.
People head to Valencia just to party. 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.
Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.
Houston is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Valencia is not a live music destination.
The music scene helps keep Houston active and fun. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.
Valencia is not a live music destination.
Valencia is a good destination for its resorts. However, Houston 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.
Houston is not a resort destination.
Valencia is a good destination for the beache. However, Houston 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.
Houston is not a beach destination.
Valencia is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic 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).
Houston does not have a historic old town.
Valencia is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston 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.
Houston is not a hiking destination.
Valencia is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.
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.
Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.
Valencia and Houston are both great destinations for the whole family.
Valencia is a very kid-friendly coastal city. 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 family-friendly things to do in Houston. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.
Valencia is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.
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.
Houston is a good coastal city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.
Valencia is well known for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.
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.
Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.
Valencia is a world-class destination for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.
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.
It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.
Valencia is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.
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.
Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.
Valencia is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.
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.
Houston is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.
For even more information, also check out Is Valencia Worth Visiting? and Is Houston Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Valencia and Houston. In our opinion, Valencia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Valencia than Houston. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Valencia than Houston. 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 Houston. 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 Houston 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.
Because Valencia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
The city of Houston offers museums and nightlife. 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.
Because Valencia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Valencia has to offer.
Houston 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 Houston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.
Valencia is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
Houston 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.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valencia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valencia. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
Houston 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Valencia is $132, while the average daily cost in Houston is $262. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Valencia and Houston in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Valencia or Houston? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Valencia:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:
Prices for flights to both Houston and Valencia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Valencia.
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Houston.
Here are a few typical costs in Valencia for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
Here are a few actual costs in Valencia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Also in Valencia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valencia and Houston, we can see that Houston is more expensive. And not only is Valencia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Valencia is in Europe and Houston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston 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 Houston Expensive?.
Houston has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Valencia. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Houston, 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.
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.
Both Houston and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Houston in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
Valencia is cooler than Houston in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).
It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Houston. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Houston and Valencia during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.
In the autumn, Valencia is cooler than Houston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Houston averages at about 71°F (22°C).
Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Valencia usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Houston. Most visitors come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Houston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
In January, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Houston. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).
In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than Houston. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Houston. 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 Houston this time of year.
Valencia is cooler than Houston in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).
Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Houston. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Valencia | Houston | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 12°C (53°F) | 32 mm (1.3 in) | 52°F (11°C) | 3.6 inches (91 mm) |
Feb | 12°C (54°F) | 30 mm (1.2 in) | 55°F (13°C) | 3.1 inches (79 mm) |
Mar | 14°C (56°F) | 34 mm (1.3 in) | 63°F (17°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) |
Apr | 15°C (60°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) | 70°F (21°C) | 3.1 inches (78 mm) |
May | 18°C (65°F) | 33 mm (1.3 in) | 76°F (25°C) | 5.2 inches (132 mm) |
Jun | 22°C (71°F) | 23 mm (0.9 in) | 81°F (27°C) | 6.4 inches (163 mm) |
Jul | 25°C (76°F) | 9 mm (0.4 in) | 84°F (29°C) | 4.8 inches (122 mm) |
Aug | 25°C (77°F) | 21 mm (0.8 in) | 83°F (29°C) | 4.4 inches (113 mm) |
Sep | 23°C (73°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) | 80°F (27°C) | 5.6 inches (143 mm) |
Oct | 19°C (66°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) | 71°F (22°C) | 4.2 inches (107 mm) |
Nov | 15°C (58°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) | 63°F (17°C) | 4.1 inches (104 mm) |
Dec | 12°C (54°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) | 55°F (13°C) | 3.4 inches (87 mm) |