A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Valencia vs. Tenerife for Food, Nightlife, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Valencia or Tenerife?

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

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

Tenerife

Tenerife is a adventure-filled, beautiful, and volcanic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Valencia and Tenerife: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Tenerife?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia. Although Valencia and Tenerife are popular destinations, Valencia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Valencia is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Tenerife attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Tenerife is more touristy than Valencia and is popular for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. 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 Tenerife?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valencia is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its 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.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

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

Valencia is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Tenerife 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Valencia or Tenerife Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Tenerife is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

Is Valencia or Tenerife Better for Resorts?

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

Tenerife is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

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 Tenerife Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Tenerife to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Valencia or Tenerife Better for Beaches?

Tenerife is well known for the beache. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tenerife. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

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 Tenerife Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is very popular for its historic old town. However, Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

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

Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Is Valencia or Tenerife Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is an amazing island to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Known for its hiking, Tenerife draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Valencia. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Tenerife?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Tenerife 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 Tenerife. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

Is Valencia or Tenerife Better for Families?

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

Tenerife is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

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 Tenerife Better for Couples?

Valencia and Tenerife are both superb 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.

Tenerife is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Is Valencia or Tenerife Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Valencia is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Tenerife is a good coastal city to visit for backpackers. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

Is Valencia or Tenerife Better for Students?

Valencia is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is not popular with students.

Is Valencia or Tenerife 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 Tenerife.

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 Tenerife offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

Is Valencia or Tenerife a more walkable city?

Valencia is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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

Should I spend more time in Tenerife or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Tenerife?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Valencia than Tenerife 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 Tenerife?

Valencia is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

The beautiful island of Tenerife offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Tenerife?

Valencia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal 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 Valencia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Tenerife 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 Tenerife?

Valencia 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.

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

Valencia is a great place to explore. 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 coastal city offers something for everyone.

Tenerife is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tenerife has to offer. 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 Tenerife, we can see that Tenerife 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 Tenerife Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Valencia or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife in the Summer?

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

In July, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Tenerife. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°F), and Tenerife fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tenerife. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the summer, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Tenerife. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 268 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Valencia or Tenerife in the Autumn?

Both Tenerife 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 Tenerife for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Valencia is cooler than Tenerife in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Tenerife fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Tenerife. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tenerife during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Tenerife in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Valencia is cooler than Tenerife. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Tenerife averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Tenerife. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 191 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Tenerife. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Tenerife in the Spring?

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

In April, Valencia is generally cooler than Tenerife. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and Tenerife fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tenerife 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 Tenerife during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tenerife and Valencia