A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Valencia vs. Seville for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Valencia or Seville?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Seville, 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 cultural, historic, and architectural coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Seville

Seville is a historic, energetic, and elegant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the theater, nightlife, and food.

Valencia and Seville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Seville?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seville than Valencia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seville is better known for its museums and theatre productions, while Valencia is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Seville is more touristy than Valencia and is popular for its Moorish and Islamic architecture, its colorful Flamenco dancing, and its local tapas and wine. Also, Seville is famous for the Real Alcázar. Valencia is well known for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella).

How is Valencia different from Seville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seville 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 Seville are among the most recognizable in the world. This elegant city is filled with historic buildings and world famous architecture. From the iconic Catedral de Sevilla to the Real Alcázar and Plaza de España, there is an endless supply of world class sights around town.

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 Seville Better for Theater?

Seville is a nice place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Valencia is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seville. Flamenco shows are a highlight for many visitors. You can sip wine and enjoy tapas as you take in this dramatic dance form.

Valencia is not a theatre destination.

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

Valencia is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Seville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Valencia, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Dining out in Seville is an experience not to be missed. The city is filled with cafes that spill into the streets. Locals live their lives outdoors, and the cafe terraces are filled with chattering guests from breakfast until late in the evening. The food includes many typical Spanish favorites such as Iberian pork, stewed meats, and other local tapas.

Is Valencia or Seville Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Seville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Valencia is a must-see party destination. 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.

Seville offers plenty to do in the evening. The excellent nightlife scene includes local bars, Flamenco shows, and student focused parties. The Triana District is a popular nightlife area, particularly for the Flamenco shows. There are also a lot of bars along Calle Betis and upscale ambiance can be found in La Alameda.

Is Valencia or Seville Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Seville 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.

Seville is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Seville Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a good destination for the beache. However, Seville is not a beach destination.

Valencia offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Seville is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Seville Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is terrific for its old town. Also, Seville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

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).

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Seville. Barrio de Santa Cruz is the old town of Seville. This is where you'll find the Jewish Quarter and many of the city's historic landmarks.

Is Valencia or Seville Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a good destination for hiking. However, Seville is not a hiking destination.

Valencia offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Seville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Seville?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Seville 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 Seville. There is a great combination of shopping streets, high end shopping malls, and local markets. Calle Sierpes, Calle Tetuan, and Calle Asuncion are some of the best places for shopping.

Is Valencia or Seville Better for Families?

Valencia and Seville are both great 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 Seville. There are parks where kids can run around. There's also the Seville Aquarium as well as Isla Mágica, which is a small amusement park. Other fun family-friendly activities include taking a boat ride on the Guadalquivir River and seeing a Flamenco Show.

Is Valencia or Seville Better for Couples?

Valencia and Seville are both great 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.

Seville is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Romantic walks, beautiful parks, and world class attractions make this a truly romantic city. Couples will enjoy an evening out with dinner and a Flamenco show, or visiting the Arab baths.

Is Valencia or Seville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia and Seville are great 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 Seville. It's a well established backpacker destination with a large supply of hostels and plenty of eager travelers ready to head out on the town.

Is Valencia or Seville Better for Students?

Valencia and Seville are world-class 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.

Seville is a very popular coastal city for students. It's a top destination for international students who appreciate the many great educational institutions, beautiful year-round weather, and many festivals and evening activities.

Is Valencia or Seville 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 Seville.

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 Seville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel through the entire city. There is also a tram system that has 4 stops and travels 1.4 kilometers.

Is Valencia or Seville a more walkable city?

Valencia and Seville both are great 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.

Seville is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of the city that are very walkable. It takes about 45 minutes to walk across the city center in its entirety.

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

Should I spend more time in Seville or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Seville?

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

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

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 beautiful city of Seville offers theater and nightlife. 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 Seville?

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.

Seville 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valencia or Seville?

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.

Seville is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Seville?

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.

Seville is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 city 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 from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Seville?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Seville. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Seville, 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 Seville?

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 Seville in the Summer?

Both Seville and Valencia during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Seville in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Valencia is around the same temperature as Seville in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Seville fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Seville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the summer, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Seville. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seville receives 360 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in July than Seville. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Seville receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Seville in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Seville. Many visitors come to Valencia in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Seville for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Valencia is around the same temperature as Seville. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Seville averages at about 20°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seville this time of the year. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seville during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Seville receives 208 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Seville. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Seville receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Seville in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Seville. Most visitors come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Seville because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In January, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Seville. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Seville fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Seville. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seville receives 173 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Seville. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Seville receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Seville in the Spring?

Both Seville and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seville this time of year.

Valencia is around the same temperature as Seville in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Seville fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Seville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seville during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Seville receives 221 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Seville. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Seville receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seville and Valencia