A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Valletta vs. Saint Andrews for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Valletta or Saint Andrews?

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 Saint Andrews 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a quaint, peaceful, and historic university town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Valletta and Saint Andrews: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Saint Andrews?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valletta. Although Valletta and Saint Andrews are both popular with visitors, Valletta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Valletta is more popular for its museums, food, and historical sights, while Saint Andrews is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. It is also home to The Grand Masters Palace. Saint Andrews is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf.

How is Valletta different from Saint Andrews?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valletta is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Valletta are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

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

Valletta is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Saint Andrews has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Valletta or Saint Andrews Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Valletta and Saint Andrews.

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.

Saint Andrews has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Valletta or Saint Andrews Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews is a university town 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 Saint Andrews. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

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 Saint Andrews Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is terrific for its old town. However, Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Is Valletta or Saint Andrews Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for its hiking trails. However, Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint Andrews. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Saint Andrews?

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

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.

Saint Andrews is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Is Valletta or Saint Andrews Better for Families?

Both Valletta and Saint Andrews are good 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 Saint Andrews. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Is Valletta or Saint Andrews Better for Couples?

Valletta is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit 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.

Saint Andrews makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Is Valletta or Saint Andrews Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Valletta is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.

Is Valletta or Saint Andrews Better for Students?

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

Saint Andrews is a very popular university town for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Valletta and Saint Andrews.

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 Saint Andrews, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Is Valletta or Saint Andrews a more walkable city?

Valletta is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable town. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Andrews or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Saint Andrews?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Valletta or Saint Andrews to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Valletta than Saint Andrews because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Valletta, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint Andrews.

Families should spend more time in Valletta than Saint Andrews. 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 Saint Andrews. 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 Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the waterfront destination of Valletta. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Saint Andrews is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 Saint Andrews?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valletta. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Saint Andrews is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this university town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Andrews, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valletta or Saint Andrews?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the waterfront destination of Valletta. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Saint Andrews is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Saint Andrews?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful town of Valletta. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Saint Andrews is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This university 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 Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Saint Andrews?

Saint Andrews has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta and Saint Andrews, 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 Saint Andrews?

Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Saint Andrews. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the summer, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Saint Andrews. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Andrews receives 184 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in July than Saint Andrews. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Saint Andrews in the Autumn?

Both Saint Andrews 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, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Saint Andrews during autumn. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Andrews receives 100 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valletta usually receives more rain than Saint Andrews. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valletta or Saint Andrews in the Winter?

Both Saint Andrews 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 travelers come to Saint Andrews for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint Andrews. In the winter, Valletta is much warmer than Saint Andrews. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valletta in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Saint Andrews averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Saint Andrews. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Andrews receives 58 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in January than Saint Andrews. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Saint Andrews in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Saint Andrews. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Also, many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Saint Andrews during spring. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Andrews receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valletta usually receives less rain than Saint Andrews. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint Andrews and Valletta