A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Valletta vs. Stratford-upon-Avon for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a park-filled, charming, and historic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's also popular because of the food and theater.

Valletta and Stratford-upon-Avon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valletta. Although Valletta and Stratford-upon-Avon are both popular with visitors, Valletta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Valletta is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is known for its theatre productions and small town charm. Valletta is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. It is also home to The Grand Masters Palace. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Valletta different from Stratford-upon-Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon that are not to be missed. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Valletta is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Nightlife?

Valletta is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Valletta offers plenty to see. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Valletta is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Families?

Both Valletta and Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Couples?

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Valletta 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Valletta is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Valletta has some public transit options. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon a more walkable city?

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Valletta Worth Visiting? and Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stratford-upon-Avon or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Valletta than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon.

Families should spend more time in Valletta than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

In Valletta, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people visit Valletta for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Valletta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon?

The beautiful destination of Valletta offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that theater 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valletta. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers something for everyone. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that theater 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 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Stratford-upon-Avon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta and Stratford-upon-Avon, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon in the Summer?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon 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, most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Valletta is generally a little warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 26°C (79°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during summer. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Autumn?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon 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, the autumn months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town atmosphere.

Valletta is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the autumn, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 107 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Stratford-upon-Avon. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Also, the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter. In the winter, Valletta is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valletta in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon averages at about 3°C (38°F).

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

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

Should I visit Valletta or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Stratford-upon-Avon. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm.

In April, Valletta is generally much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 16°C (61°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 9°C (48°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 Stratford-upon-Avon. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 147 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Stratford-upon-Avon and Valletta