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

Should you visit Valencia or Zaragoza?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Zaragoza, 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a compact, authentic, and cultural city. 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 Zaragoza: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Zaragoza?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia than Zaragoza, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Valencia is more touristy than Zaragoza and is known 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. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Valencia different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Valencia and Zaragoza.

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 Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

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

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Valencia has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

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).

Zaragoza is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Valencia has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Zaragoza?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for Families?

Valencia is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Valencia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly coastal city. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

Valencia and Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is notable for backpackers. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Valencia is a very popular coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Zaragoza is a good coastal city to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for Students?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for students. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Zaragoza. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zaragoza is well known for its public transit. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Zaragoza has some very good public transit options. There are buses and trams around the city.

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Is Valencia or Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Valencia and Zaragoza both are superb 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.

Zaragoza is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Zaragoza?

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

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

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 city of Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza?

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.

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

Five days in Valencia or Zaragoza?

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.

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza?

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.

Zaragoza 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 city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Zaragoza?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Zaragoza. When comparing the sizes of Valencia and Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Zaragoza. The summer months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives less sunshine than Zaragoza during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Zaragoza. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Zaragoza. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 19°C (66°F), and Zaragoza fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Valencia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in October than Zaragoza. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Zaragoza in the Winter?

Both Zaragoza and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zaragoza in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Valencia is a little warmer than Zaragoza in the winter. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Zaragoza during winter. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valencia usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Zaragoza in the Spring?

Both Zaragoza and Valencia during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Valencia in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zaragoza for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Valencia is around the same temperature as Zaragoza. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valencia in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In Zaragoza, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valencia. In the spring, Valencia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in April than Zaragoza. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Valencia