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

Should you visit Valletta or Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a ancient, charming, and character-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Valletta and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Edinburgh?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Valletta and Edinburgh are both popular with visitors, Edinburgh has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Edinburgh is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Valletta is known for its food and beaches. Edinburgh is more touristy than Valletta and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Valletta different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh that are not to be missed. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Is Valletta or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Valletta is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Valletta is not a theatre destination.

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

Valletta is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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).

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Valletta or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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 Edinburgh Better for Music?

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

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Valletta is not a live music destination.

Is Valletta or Edinburgh Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Valletta. 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Both Valletta and Edinburgh have world-class historic old towns worth visiting.

Valletta has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

The old town of Edinburgh is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Edinburgh?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Valletta and Edinburgh.

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.

Edinburgh is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Valletta or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Valletta or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Valletta is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Is Valletta or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh Better for Students?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Valletta and Edinburgh.

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 Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Valletta or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Valletta and Edinburgh are world-class 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 Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Edinburgh?

In either Valletta or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh than Valletta because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Valletta, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

Couples should spend more time in Valletta than Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Valletta or Edinburgh?

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.

The beautiful city of Edinburgh offers theater and nightlife. 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the waterfront 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.

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

Five days in Valletta or Edinburgh?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic 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.

Edinburgh is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

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.

Edinburgh 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 Historical Tours in Malta, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta and Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

In July, Valletta is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 26°C (79°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during summer. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valletta usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valletta or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Valletta during the autumn 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 travelers come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Valletta is much warmer than Edinburgh in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the autumn, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in October than Edinburgh. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Edinburgh in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Edinburgh. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Also, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Edinburgh can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Valletta is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valletta in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valletta usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valletta or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Edinburgh. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Valletta is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 16°C (61°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the spring, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in April than Edinburgh. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Valletta