A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Valencia vs. Palma de Mallorca for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Old Town

Should you visit Valencia or Palma de Mallorca?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Palma de Mallorca, 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 friendly, coastal, and cultural coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a cultural, historic, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Valencia and Palma de Mallorca: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Palma de Mallorca?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valencia than Palma de Mallorca. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Valencia is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Palma de Mallorca attracts visitors for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Valencia and is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. Valencia is famous 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.

How is Valencia different from Palma de Mallorca?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

Valencia is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Valencia or Palma de Mallorca? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valencia is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palma de Mallorca. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Valencia and Palma de Mallorca.

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.

Palma de Mallorca is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its live music scene. However, Valencia is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Palma de Mallorca. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Valencia is not a live music destination.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its resorts. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Palma de Mallorca is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

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 Palma de Mallorca Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Palma de Mallorca has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is an amazing island to visit for the beache. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

The beaches in Palma de Mallorca are among the best in the world. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

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 Palma de Mallorca Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The rich history of Valencia can be explored in its historical center. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Many people head to Palma de Mallorca to see the old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca Better for Hiking?

Valencia and Palma de Mallorca are both places where visitors can find nice hiking trails.

Valencia has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Palma de Mallorca?

Valencia is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice shopping areas. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca Better for Families?

Valencia and Palma de Mallorca are both superb 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 Palma de Mallorca. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca Better for Couples?

Valencia is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Valencia makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia and Palma de Mallorca are superb 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 Palma de Mallorca. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca Better for Students?

Valencia is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with 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.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

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 Palma de Mallorca offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

Is Valencia or Palma de Mallorca a more walkable city?

Valencia is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Valencia is very walkable. 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Valencia Worth Visiting? and Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palma de Mallorca or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Palma de Mallorca?

In either Valencia or Palma de Mallorca, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

Families should spend more time in Valencia than Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Valencia, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

The beautiful island of Palma de Mallorca offers shopping and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Valencia, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic big city of Valencia. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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

Valencia is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Palma de Mallorca is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island 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 Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Palma de Mallorca?

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

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 Palma de Mallorca in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Palma de Mallorca. The summer months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year.

In July, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°F), and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palma de Mallorca. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the summer, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Palma de Mallorca. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palma de Mallorca receives 334 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in July than Palma de Mallorca. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Palma de Mallorca in the Autumn?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palma de Mallorca for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Valencia is around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Palma de Mallorca. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palma de Mallorca during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Palma de Mallorca receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Palma de Mallorca. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Palma de Mallorca in the Winter?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Valencia during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Valencia is around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Palma de Mallorca averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palma de Mallorca. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palma de Mallorca receives 164 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Palma de Mallorca. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Palma de Mallorca in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Palma de Mallorca. Many visitors come to Valencia in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palma de Mallorca this time of the year. In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palma de Mallorca during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Palma de Mallorca receives 210 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Palma de Mallorca. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palma de Mallorca and Valencia