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

Should you visit Valencia or Toulouse?

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

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

Toulouse

Toulouse is a dynamic, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Toulouse?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia than Toulouse, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Valencia is more touristy than Toulouse 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. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine.

How is Valencia different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Valencia and Toulouse.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Toulouse can be difficult as they are each first-rate 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 Toulouse have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

Is Valencia or Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Valencia is a world class 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.

Toulouse has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Valencia or Toulouse Better for Resorts?

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

Toulouse is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Toulouse Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for the beach. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

The rich history of Valencia can be explored in its historical center. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Is Valencia or Toulouse Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for hiking. However, Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

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.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Toulouse?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Is Valencia or Toulouse Better for Families?

Valencia and Toulouse are both high quality 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 Toulouse. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Is Valencia or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Valencia and Toulouse are both high quality 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.

Toulouse is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Is Valencia or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Valencia or Toulouse Better for Students?

Valencia is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Toulouse is a good coastal city to visit for students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Is Valencia or Toulouse 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 Toulouse.

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 Toulouse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Valencia or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Valencia and Toulouse both are high quality 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.

Toulouse is a very walkable destination. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Valencia or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Toulouse due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

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

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 city of Toulouse offers food and shopping. 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 Toulouse?

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.

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

Five days in Valencia or Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food 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 Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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 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 comparing the travel costs between Valencia and Toulouse, we can see that Toulouse 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 Toulouse Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Toulouse?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Toulouse. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

Both Toulouse 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. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Valencia is a little warmer than Toulouse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valencia in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Toulouse averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In Toulouse, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the summer, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Toulouse. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Toulouse in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Toulouse. 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. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 19°C (66°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Toulouse in the Winter?

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

Valencia is much warmer than Toulouse in the winter. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Valencia or Toulouse in the Spring?

Both Toulouse 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. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Valencia is a little warmer than Toulouse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valencia in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Toulouse averages at about 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Toulouse. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Valencia