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

Should you visit Valencia or Phoenix?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Phoenix, 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. 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.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a desert, laid back, and sprawling city. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Valencia and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Phoenix?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Valencia than Phoenix. While Phoenix is larger than Valencia, Valencia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Valencia is more touristy than Phoenix and 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. Phoenix is popular for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Valencia different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valencia is a great coastal city for its historical sights. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

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

Valencia is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Valencia have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Valencia or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Valencia is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Is Valencia or Phoenix Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Phoenix Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for the beach. However, Phoenix is not a beach destination.

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.

Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Phoenix Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Phoenix does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Valencia offers plenty to see. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Phoenix does not have a historic old town.

Is Valencia or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Valencia and Phoenix are both places where visitors can find good 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 Phoenix. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Phoenix?

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

Phoenix is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Valencia or Phoenix Better for Families?

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

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Valencia or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Valencia is a great coastal city for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

Is Valencia or Phoenix Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a great coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

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.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

Is Valencia or Phoenix Better for Students?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is not popular with students.

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

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Phoenix is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Valencia or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Valencia is a great coastal city for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

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.

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Phoenix?

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

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

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 Phoenix offers food and shopping. 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 Phoenix?

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.

Phoenix 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 Phoenix, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valencia or Phoenix?

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.

Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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.

Phoenix 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 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valencia and Phoenix, we can see that Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phoenix 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 Phoenix Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Valencia. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

Both Phoenix and Valencia during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Phoenix for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Phoenix can become quite hot in the summer. In the summer, Valencia is cooler than Phoenix. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valencia in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Phoenix averages at about 98°F (36°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the summer, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 380 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Phoenix. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Phoenix in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Phoenix. 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Phoenix in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Valencia is generally cooler than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 19°C (66°F), and Phoenix fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. Valencia usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 305 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Phoenix in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Phoenix. Many visitors come to Valencia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Phoenix for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Valencia is cooler than Phoenix in the winter. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. In the winter, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in January than Phoenix. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Phoenix in the Spring?

Both Phoenix and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Valencia is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valencia in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Phoenix averages at about 74°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Valencia