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

Should you visit Valencia or Valletta?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Valletta, 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Valletta

Valletta is a cultural, waterfront, and historic town. 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 Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Valletta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valencia. Although Valencia and Valletta are both popular with visitors, Valencia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Valencia is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Valletta is known for its museums. Valencia is more touristy than Valletta 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. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Valencia different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valletta is an amazing town 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 Valletta are among the most recognizable in the world. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Valletta 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 Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Is Valencia or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Valencia or Valletta Better for Resorts?

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

Valletta is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

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.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Is Valencia or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Valencia and Valletta both have first-rate historical old towns that attract visitors.

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

Valletta has a world-famous historical area. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Is Valencia or Valletta Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a coastal city with good options for its hiking trails. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Valletta?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Valletta 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 Valletta. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Is Valencia or Valletta Better for Families?

Valencia is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Valencia or Valletta Better for Couples?

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Valletta has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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.

Is Valencia or Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia and Valletta are high quality 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 Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Valencia or Valletta Better for Students?

Valencia is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not popular with students.

Is Valencia or Valletta 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 Valletta.

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 Valletta offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Valencia or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Valletta on foot is easy. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Valletta?

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

Families should spend more time in Valencia than Valletta. 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 Valletta than Valencia. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Valletta that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

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 town of Valletta offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Valletta?

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.

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

Five days in Valencia or Valletta?

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.

Valletta 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 Valletta?

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.

Valletta 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 town 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 Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

When comparing the travel costs between Valencia and Valletta, 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 Valletta Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Valletta?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Valletta, 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 Valletta?

Valencia has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Valletta in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Valletta. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

In the summer, Valencia is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valencia in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Valletta averages at about 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the summer, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Valletta. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Valletta in the Autumn?

Both Valletta and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Valletta. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 19°C (66°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. Valencia usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Valletta. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Valletta in the Winter?

Both Valletta and Valencia during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Valencia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

Valencia is cooler than Valletta in the winter. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Valletta. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Valletta in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Valletta. Most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Valencia is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valencia in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Valletta averages at about 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives more rain than Valletta. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Valencia