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

Should you visit Valletta or Bath?

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 Bath 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 charming, cultural, and waterfront town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Bath

Bath is a beautiful, architectural, and charming spa town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Valletta and Bath: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Historic Roman Baths
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Valletta or Bath?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Valletta than Bath, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Valletta is better known for its food, beaches, and historical sights, while Bath is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Bath is more touristy than Valletta and is known for its world-renowned Roman built baths as well as its historical architecture and many museums. Valletta is well known for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. Also, Valletta is famous for The Grand Masters Palace.

How is Valletta different from Bath?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valletta
Bath

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Bath and Valletta.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Valletta has many famous sights for visitors. 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 will find world class museums and historical sights in Bath that are not to be missed. The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.


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

Valletta
Bath

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Valletta has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bath. Sample afternoon tea or try some local fish and chips. There are a diversity of restaurants to choose from so it's easy to find local favorites, vegetarian options, or international cuisine.

Is Valletta or Bath Better for Nightlife?

Valletta
Bath

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Valletta and Bath.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Valletta. 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.

Bath has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to George Street, which is the liveliest part of the city at night. You'll find a mix of high end restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars that keep the energy high. One of the most popular nightlife venues in Bath is Bath Komedia, which is a popular music and comedy club.

Is Valletta or Bath Better for Beaches?

Valletta
Bath

Valletta is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, Bath is not a beach destination.

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.

Bath is not a beach destination.


Is Valletta or Bath Better for its Old Town?

Valletta
Bath

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Valletta offers plenty to see. 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.

Many visitors go to Bath to see the historical old town. The Roman old town has charming streets and a vibrant environment. On pleasant weekends you'll find tourists and locals alike filling the restaurants and town squares, giving the city an energy and lively atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Bath?

Valletta
Bath

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Valletta and Bath.

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.

Bath is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Stall Street and Union Street for the most popular shopping streets in town. Many visitors pick up jewelry, glass, and fudge or other sweets while exploring the area.

Is Valletta or Bath Better for Families?

Valletta
Bath

Both Valletta and Bath 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 Bath. The city is all about history and architecture, so at times it can be challenging for the kids to stay entertained. For a change of pace, take a boat on the canal or explore one of the beautiful gardens.


Is Valletta or Bath Better for Couples?

Valletta
Bath

Both Valletta and Bath are amazing destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Bath is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.

Is Valletta or Bath Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta
Bath

Valletta is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Valletta is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bath. You'll find a surprising number of hostels around town so it's not hard to meet other backpackers while you're in the area.

Is Valletta or Bath Better for Students?

Valletta
Bath

Bath is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Bath. The University of Bath offers a number of different programs so this is a popular city for local and international students.

Valletta is not popular with students.


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

Valletta
Bath

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Valletta and Bath.

Valletta has some public transit options. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

You'll find some public transit in Bath, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You likely won't need public transit because it's easy to walk most places, but there are buses around town.

Is Valletta or Bath a more walkable city?

Valletta
Bath

Valletta and Bath are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Valletta. 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.

Getting around Bath on foot is easy. It is a very walkable city with most sights and activities packed into a very compact area. There are also many pedestrian areas that are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bath or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Bath?

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

Families should spend more time in Valletta than Bath. 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 Bath. 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 Valletta than Bath 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 Valletta.


  • How many days in Valletta or Bath? Ideal Length of Stay
    Valletta 1-3 
    Bath 1-3

One day in Valletta or Bath?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Valletta. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The beautiful spa town of Bath 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 Valletta or Bath?

Valletta 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.

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

Five days in Valletta or Bath?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the waterfront destination of Valletta. This town 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.

Bath is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums 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 Valletta or Bath?

The charming town of Valletta 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.

Bath is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums 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 spa town 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Bath or Valletta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Valletta is €116, while the average daily cost in Bath is €164. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Valletta and Bath in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Valletta 65
    Bath 92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Valletta 130
    Bath 184
Compare Hotels in Valletta and Bath

Looking for a hotel in Valletta or Bath? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Valletta


Hotels in Bath


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Valletta Hotel Prices and Bath Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Valletta 24
    Bath 31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Valletta

Also for Valletta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Valletta Cruise Port to Malta Intl Airport (MLA) - Departure Private Transfer : $14
  • Turkish Gullet Cruise to Gozo and Comino with Lunch and Transfers: $81
  • The Three Fortified Cities of Malta Half Day Tour Incl. Boat Trip and Transfers: $39
  • Private Transfer: Valletta to Malta International Airport (MLA): $30
  • Private Transfer from Valletta Cruise Port to Malta Airport (MLA): $14
  • Private Transfer from Malta Airport (MLA) to Valletta Cruise Port: $14
  • Private Airport Transfer: Malta International Airport (MLA) to Valletta: $31
  • Private Airport Transfer in Malta: $87
  • Private Airport Transfer from Malta to Gozo: $109
  • Mdina and Highlights of Malta Full Day Guided Tour Incl. Lunch and Transfers: $67
  • Malta Private Transfer from Malta Airport to any resort in Malta island: $51
  • Malta Private Airport Transfer - Arrival: $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bath

Also for Bath, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bus Transfer to/from Bristol Airport: $21
  • Bath to Heathrow Airport private airport transfer: $288
  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Bath".: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Valletta or Bath?

Prices for flights to both Bath and Valletta change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Valletta 32
    Bath 50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Valletta

For Valletta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Valletta Food Tour - Eat like a local: $46
  • Valletta Food Tour: $49
  • Folklore Evening Dinner Show at a Traditional Maltese Restaurant Incl. Transfers: $67
  • Maltese Traditional Dinner and Folklore Show with Transfers: $71
  • Fireworks Festival Cruise Including Dinner, Drinks and Transport: $76
  • The Ultimate Valletta Evening Food Tour: $80
  • Fernandes Sunset Cruise including Dinner with Open Bar: $80
  • Christmas Tour in Gozo (afternoon) inc. Dinner: $86
  • Blue Lagoon & Sunset Quad Tour in Gozo/Dinner: $91
  • From Blue Lagoon and Gozo Tour w/Quads and Dinner: $117
  • The Valletta Food Tour Experience, a private tour: $150
  • Private Valletta Food Tour: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Valletta 27
    Bath 19

Tours and Activities in Valletta

For Valletta, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Cities Tour: $16
  • 3 Hours Private Picnic Experience in Malta: $273
  • 3 cities: Private Insider Walking Tour with Licensed Guide: $144
  • 30-Minute Mdina Experience Audio-Visual Show Ticket (Open Ticket): $6.55
  • 4-hr day tour around Malta: $207
  • 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Pass Bus + Harbour Cruise: $55
  • 90 minutes Harbour Cruise in Valletta - ticket only: $22
  • A Monumental Maltese Experience: $175
  • Adventures in Malta: Thrills, History, and Natural Beauty: $319
  • Best of Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour: $20
  • Best of Valletta Walking Tour: $20
  • Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk Half-Day Tour from Valletta: $37

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bath

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Bath's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Thermal Bath Spa
    41

Tours and Activities in Bath

For Bath, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Fully Guided Bath Ghost Tours: $20
  • 'Hidden Cotswolds & Dark Age England' tour for 2-8 from Bath: $328
  • 'Stonehenge & Secret England' from Bath for 2-8 curious adventurers: $283
  • "Stonehenge & Secret England" Tour for 2-8 guests from Bath: $365
  • 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour in Bath with An App: $9.99
  • Awesome Bath – Family Walking Tour: $424
  • Awesome Family Walking Tour: $216
  • 2-Hour Bath Walking Tour of Bridgerton Filming Locations: $252
  • Private Walking Tour | Blue Badge Guide, 2h, £200 per group: $252
  • Bad of Bath fun Walking Tour of Bath: $23
  • Bath & Stonehenge City Break from London - Self-Guided Tours: $13
  • Bath & Stonehenge: guided day tour from Cambridge: $172

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Valletta 16
    Bath 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Valletta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Valletta:

  • Valletta Pub Crawl: $22
  • Malta Pub Crawl: $22
  • The Brewery Experience & beer tasting including transport: $35
  • The Brewery Experience Self-Guided Tour with Tasting & Transport: $35
  • Malta: The Three Cities and Wine Tasting Tour: $43

Sample the Local Flavors in Bath

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bath:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valletta and Bath, we can see that Bath 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 Bath would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bath 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 Bath Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Valletta or Bath?

Bath has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta and Bath, 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.