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

Should you visit Valencia or Nice?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Nice, 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. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nice

Nice is a trendy, chic, and glamourous seaside destination. 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 shopping, nightlife, and food.

Valencia and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Nice?

You'll generally find more things to do in Valencia than Nice. Valencia is bigger than Nice, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Valencia is better known for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Nice is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Valencia and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. 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 Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valencia is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Nice can be difficult as they are each first-rate 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 Nice have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

Is Valencia or Nice Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Nice is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

Is Valencia or Nice Better for Resorts?

Nice is an amazing seaside destination to visit for its resorts. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Nice offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

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.

Is Valencia or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Nice has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Valencia or Nice Better for Beaches?

Nice is well known for the beache. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nice. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

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.

Is Valencia or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is renowned for its old town. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Valencia is one of the most recognized in 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).

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Is Valencia or Nice Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Nice 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.

Nice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Nice?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nice 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 Nice. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Valencia or Nice Better for Families?

Valencia is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Nice is a family-friendly coastal city. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Valencia or Nice Better for Couples?

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

Nice has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

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 Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination 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 backpackers visit Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Valencia or Nice Better for Students?

Valencia is renowned for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

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.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Nice 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.

Nice has some very good public transit options. There are both buses and trams.

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 Nice a more walkable city?

Nice is an amazing seaside destination 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 Nice on foot is easy. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nice or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Nice?

In either Valencia or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nice than Valencia because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nice.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Valencia than Nice 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 Nice?

Valencia is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful seaside destination of Nice offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Nice?

Valencia is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Nice is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valencia or Nice?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic big city of Valencia. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

The historic coastal city of Valencia offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Nice 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 seaside destination offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Nice?

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

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 Nice in the Summer?

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

Valencia is around the same temperature as Nice in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Nice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Nice. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Nice receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Nice in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Nice. 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. Additionally, many visitors come to Nice in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Valencia is a little warmer than Nice. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Nice averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite rainy in Nice. Valencia usually gets less rain in October than Nice. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Nice receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Nice in the Winter?

Both Nice 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 Nice for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Nice. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Nice fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than Nice. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Nice receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Nice in the Spring?

Both Nice 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. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nice because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Valencia is a little warmer than Nice in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Nice fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Nice. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nice receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nice and Valencia