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

Should you visit Valencia or York?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or York, 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

York

York is a medieval, fanciful, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia and York: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or York?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valencia than York. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. 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. York is famous for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours.

How is Valencia different from York?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Valencia and York.

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 York. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and York can be difficult as they are each fantastic 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 York have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

Is Valencia or York Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

York has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Is Valencia or York Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a popular place for its resorts. However, York is not a resort destination.

Valencia has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

York is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or York Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a popular place for its beaches. However, York 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.

York is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or York Better for its Old Town?

Valencia and York both have fantastic 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).

York has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

Is Valencia or York Better for Hiking?

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

York is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or York?

Valencia is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Valencia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is Valencia or York Better for Families?

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

York is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York Better for Couples?

Valencia and York 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.

York is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

Is Valencia or York Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia and York are very good 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 York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Is Valencia or York Better for Students?

Valencia is a world-class destination for students. However, York 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.

York is not popular with students.

Is Valencia or York 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 York.

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 York offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is Valencia or York a more walkable city?

Valencia is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in York or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or York?

It's fun to spend time in either Valencia or York. Generally, people tend to spend more time in York 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 York.

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

Couples should spend more time in Valencia than York. 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 York 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 York?

Valencia is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of York 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 York?

Valencia is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Valencia or York?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly big city of Valencia. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

York 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 York?

The cultural coastal city of Valencia offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

York 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 10-Day Tours from London, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or York?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and York, 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 York?

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 York in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and York. Many visitors come to Valencia in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to York for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Valencia is generally much warmer than York. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°F), and York fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than York during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while York receives 196 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than York. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while York receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or York in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Valencia as well as York. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to York because of the shopping scene.

Valencia is much warmer than York in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and York fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Valencia often gets more sunshine than York. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while York receives 112 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in October than York. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or York in the Winter?

Both York 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 York this time of year.

It's quite cold in York in the winter. In the winter, Valencia is much warmer than York. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and York averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than York during winter. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while York receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than York. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while York receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or York in the Spring?

Both York 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.

In April, Valencia is generally much warmer than York. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and York fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the spring, Valencia often gets more sunshine than York. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while York receives 151 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in April than York. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for York and Valencia