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

Should you visit Valletta or Barcelona?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Valletta and Barcelona can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Valletta

Valletta is a historic, charming, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a friendly, high energy, and youthful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Valletta and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Barcelona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Barcelona than Valletta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Barcelona is better known for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Valletta is more popular for its museums, food, and historical sights. Barcelona is more touristy than Valletta and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Valletta is well known for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Valletta different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Barcelona and Valletta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Valletta or Barcelona?

Valletta is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Valletta that are not to be missed. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

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

Valletta is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Valletta or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

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

Barcelona is a must-see party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

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 Valletta or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is terrific for its music scene. However, Valletta is not a live music destination.

Barcelona has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Valletta is not a live music destination.

Is Valletta or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a 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 Barcelona. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

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 Valletta or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Valletta is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Barcelona?

Barcelona is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Barcelona specifically to go shopping. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Valletta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Valletta or Barcelona Better for Families?

Both Valletta and Barcelona are notable to visit with kids.

Valletta is a family-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Barcelona. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Valletta or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Valletta is renowned for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Valletta is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Valletta or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Barcelona, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Valletta or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Valletta is not popular with students.

Is Valletta or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Barcelona. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

You'll find some public transit in Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Valletta or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Valletta is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Valletta on foot. 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.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable town. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Barcelona?

Both Valletta and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Valletta. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Valletta, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona 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 Barcelona.

One day in Valletta or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Valletta. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Valletta has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona 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.

A weekend in Valletta or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Valletta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Valletta or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural town of Valletta. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Valletta or Barcelona?

Valletta is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Barcelona has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Malta, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valletta and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is Valletta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Valletta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Valletta and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in Valletta.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Valletta Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta and Barcelona, 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 Valletta or Barcelona?

Barcelona 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 Valletta or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Barcelona. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In the summer, Valletta is a little warmer than Barcelona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valletta in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Barcelona averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the summer, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in July than Barcelona. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Valletta is generally a little warmer than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 21°C (70°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Valletta or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Valletta during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Valletta is a little warmer than Barcelona in the winter. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in January than Barcelona. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Barcelona. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Valletta is a little warmer than Barcelona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valletta in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Barcelona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valletta usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Valletta