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

Should you visit Valencia or Rouen?

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

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

Rouen

Rouen is a impressive, relaxing, and historical city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia and Rouen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Rouen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Valencia than Rouen. Valencia is bigger than Rouen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Valencia is more touristy than Rouen 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. Rouen is well known for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Valencia different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valencia is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Valencia offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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

Valencia is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Valencia is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Valencia or Rouen Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Valencia or Rouen Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a popular place for its resorts. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Rouen Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a popular place for the beache. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Rouen Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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).

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is Valencia or Rouen Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Rouen?

Valencia is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Valencia or Rouen Better for Families?

Valencia is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly coastal city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Valencia or Rouen Better for Couples?

Valencia and Rouen are both very good to visit as a couple.

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.

Rouen is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Valencia or Rouen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is notable for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

Is Valencia or Rouen Better for Students?

Valencia is a world-class destination for students. However, Rouen is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Valencia. 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.

Rouen is not popular with students.

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

Rouen 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.

Rouen has some very good public transit options. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

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 Rouen a more walkable city?

Valencia and Rouen 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.

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rouen or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Rouen?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Valencia or Rouen to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Valencia than Rouen because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 1-2 days is enough time in Rouen.

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

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 Rouen 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 Rouen?

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.

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

Five days in Valencia or Rouen?

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.

Rouen 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 Rouen?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural 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.

Rouen 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Rouen?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Rouen, 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Rouen. 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 Rouen for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Valencia is a little warmer than Rouen in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Rouen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rouen this time of the year. In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Rouen during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Rouen. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Rouen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Rouen. 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 Rouen because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Valencia is much warmer than Rouen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Rouen averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Rouen. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 127 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in October than Rouen. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Rouen in the Winter?

Both Rouen and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Valencia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rouen this time of year.

It's quite cold in Rouen in the winter. In January, Valencia is generally much warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Rouen during winter. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than Rouen. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Rouen in the Spring?

Both Rouen and Valencia during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rouen for the natural beauty.

Valencia is much warmer than Rouen in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Rouen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the spring, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Rouen. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 172 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Rouen. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rouen and Valencia