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

Should you visit Valletta or Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Valletta and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Philadelphia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Valletta and Philadelphia are both popular with visitors, Philadelphia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Philadelphia is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Valletta is known for its food, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell.

How is Valletta different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia that are not to be missed. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Is Valletta or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

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

Philadelphia attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Valletta is not a theatre destination.

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

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Valletta is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Is Valletta or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

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

Philadelphia has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Valletta is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Philadelphia while you're in town. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Valletta is not a live music destination.

Is Valletta or Philadelphia Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Valletta can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Philadelphia?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Valletta and Philadelphia.

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.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Is Valletta or Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Valletta does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Philadelphia is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Valletta does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Valletta or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a city with good options for visiting Christmas markets. However, Valletta does not offer Christmas markets.

Philadelphia is a nice place to see Christmas markets. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Valletta does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Valletta or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

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 Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Valletta has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Philadelphia is a good town for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Is Valletta or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers 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.

Philadelphia is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Valletta or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Valletta and Philadelphia are first-rate 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 Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Philadelphia?

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

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

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

One day in Valletta or Philadelphia?

In Valletta, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?

Valletta is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Philadelphia 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Philadelphia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valletta or Philadelphia?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Valletta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?

Valletta is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valletta and Philadelphia, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Valletta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Valletta is in Europe and Philadelphia is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Philadelphia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 220 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia?

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

Both Philadelphia 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 summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Valletta is generally around the same temperature as Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 26°C (79°F), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during summer. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. In July, Valletta usually receives less rain than Philadelphia. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valletta or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

Both Philadelphia 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. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

Valletta is much warmer than Philadelphia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the autumn, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Philadelphia in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. In the winter, Valletta is much warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valletta in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Philadelphia averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

Valletta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia during winter. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valletta usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valletta or Philadelphia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Philadelphia. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Valletta is generally a little warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 16°C (61°F), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the spring, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in April than Philadelphia. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Valletta