A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Valletta vs. San Diego for Attractions, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Valletta or San Diego?

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

San Diego

San Diego is a dynamic, energetic, and relaxed coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Valletta and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although Valletta and San Diego are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Valletta is known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Valletta and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Valletta different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valletta is renowned for its historical sights. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Valletta are world-renowned. 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.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Valletta is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Valletta, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Valletta or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

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

San Diego has a large number of nightlife venues. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego 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 San Diego while you're in town. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Valletta is not a live music destination.

Is Valletta or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Valletta is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Valletta is not a resort destination.

Is Valletta or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Valletta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Valletta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Valletta or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is terrific for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific 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 San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is renowned for its old town. However, San Diego does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Valletta is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Valletta or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or San Diego?

Valletta is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Valletta is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Valletta or San Diego Better for Families?

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

San Diego is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

Both Valletta and San Diego are fantastic 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.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Is Valletta or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Valletta or San Diego Better for Students?

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

San Diego is a very popular coastal city for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Valletta is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Valletta offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Valletta or San Diego a more walkable city?

Valletta is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

Valletta is a very easy town to get around 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.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or San Diego?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Valletta than San Diego 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 San Diego?

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 coastal city of San Diego offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural 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.

San Diego is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 San Diego?

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.

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

San Diego 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 San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and San Diego. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Valletta is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 26°C (79°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than San Diego during summer. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valletta usually receives more rain than San Diego. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valletta or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Valletta as well as San Diego. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Valletta is around the same temperature as San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the autumn, Valletta often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego 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, most visitors come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Valletta is around the same temperature as San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valletta in January average around 13°C (55°F), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Valletta usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valletta usually receives more rain than San Diego. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valletta or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego 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. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Valletta is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 16°C (61°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the spring, Valletta often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Valletta