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

Should you visit Valletta or London?

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 London 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 waterfront, historic, and charming town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

London

London is a global, international, and historic 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 theater, nightlife, and live music.

Valletta and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or London?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London. Although Valletta and London are popular destinations, London has more sights and attractions for tourists. London is very popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Valletta attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and historical sights. London is more touristy than Valletta and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also well known for Big Ben. Valletta is famous for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

Big Ben

How is Valletta different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both London 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 London that are not to be missed. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Is Valletta or London Better for Theater?

London is terrific for its shows and theatre. However, Valletta is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in London that are not to be missed. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Valletta is not a theatre destination.

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

Valletta is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, London is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, London makes for a great culinary experience. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is Valletta or London Better for Nightlife?

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

London is a must-see party destination. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

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 London Better for Music?

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

London has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Valletta is not a live music destination.

Is Valletta or London Better for Beaches?

Valletta is adequate for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

The beach in Valletta is worth checking out. 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.

London is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or London Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

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.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or London?

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

Many people travel to London specifically to go shopping. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

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 London Better for Christmas?

London is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Valletta does not offer Christmas activities.

London offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Valletta does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Valletta or London Better for Christmas Markets?

London is terrific for visiting Christmas markets. However, Valletta does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in London are not to be missed. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Valletta does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Valletta or London Better for Families?

London is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

London is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

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 London Better for Couples?

Both Valletta and London 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.

London is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

Is Valletta or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London 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 London, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

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 London Better for Students?

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

London is a very popular city for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of London can take you anywhere. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

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 London a more walkable city?

Valletta and London 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 London on foot is easy. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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

Should I spend more time in London or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or London?

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

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

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

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

One day in Valletta or London?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Valletta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

London is a big city with plenty to do. 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 London?

Valletta is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

London is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valletta. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the waterfront destination of Valletta. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

London is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that London 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 1090 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta and London, 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 London?

London 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 London in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and London. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Valletta is a little warmer than London in the summer. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and London fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than London during summer. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valletta usually receives less rain than London. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valletta or London in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Valletta as well as London. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to London because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Valletta is much warmer than London. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valletta in October average around 21°C (70°F), and London averages at about 12°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the autumn, Valletta often gets more sunshine than London. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 107 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in October than London. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or London in the Winter?

Both London and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to London this time of year.

It's quite cold in London in the winter. In January, Valletta is generally much warmer than London. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 13°C (55°F), and London fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Valletta usually receives more sunshine than London during winter. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valletta usually receives more rain than London. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valletta or London in the Spring?

Both London and Valletta during the spring 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 London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Valletta is much warmer than London in the spring. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and London fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the spring, Valletta often gets more sunshine than London. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 147 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in April than London. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for London and Valletta