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

Should you visit Valencia or Paris?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Paris, 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 historic, architectural, and friendly coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Valencia and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Valencia. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Valencia attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, and hiking. Paris is more touristy than Valencia and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Valencia is famous for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella).

The Eiffel Tower

How is Valencia different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its theatre productions. However, Valencia is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Paris. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Valencia is not a theatre destination.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Paris can be difficult as they are each fantastic 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 Paris have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Paris is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Valencia is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Valencia is not a live music destination.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a popular place for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

Valencia is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Valencia has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a popular place for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

Valencia is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Paris?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Paris make it a world-class shopping destination. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Valencia does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Paris is not to be missed. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Valencia does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Paris is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Couples?

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

Paris has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Is Valencia or Paris Better for Students?

Valencia and Paris are fantastic 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.

Paris is a very popular coastal city for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

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

Paris 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 Paris is top-notch. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

Valencia and Paris both are very good 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.

Paris is a very walkable destination. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Paris?

Both Valencia and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Valencia. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Valencia. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Valencia 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 Paris.

One day in Valencia or Paris?

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 Paris offers shopping and museums. 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 Paris?

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.

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Paris?

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.

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

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal 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.

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valencia and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Valencia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Paris?

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

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 Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Valencia during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Valencia in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°F), and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the summer, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Paris. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Paris. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Paris. Most visitors come to Valencia for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Paris because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Valencia is a little warmer than Paris in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Paris during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Paris. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Paris in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Paris. The winter months attract visitors to Valencia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

It's quite cold in Paris in the winter. In the winter, Valencia is much warmer than Paris. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Paris averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Paris. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Paris. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Paris during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Paris. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Valencia