A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Valletta vs. The Hague for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Valletta or The Hague?

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 The Hague 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

The Hague

The Hague is a international, bustling, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Valletta and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Valletta or The Hague?

Visitors will usually find more to do in The Hague than Valletta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. The Hague is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Valletta is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Valletta is more touristy than The Hague and is known for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. The Hague is well known for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. Also, The Hague is famous for The Peace Palace.

How is Valletta different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valletta
The Hague

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Valletta from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Valletta
The Hague

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for its restaurants. Also, The Hague 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).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is Valletta or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Valletta
The Hague

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

The Hague has a large number of nightlife venues. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

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 The Hague Better for Music?

Valletta
The Hague

The Hague 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 The Hague while you're in town. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Valletta is not a live music destination.


Is Valletta or The Hague Better for Beaches?

Valletta
The Hague

Valletta is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, The Hague is not a beach destination.

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.

The Hague is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or The Hague Better for its Old Town?

Valletta
The Hague

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Valletta offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or The Hague?

Valletta
The Hague

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Valletta and The Hague.

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.

The Hague is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.


Is Valletta or The Hague Better for Families?

Valletta
The Hague

Both Valletta and The Hague are notable 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 The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

Is Valletta or The Hague Better for Couples?

Valletta
The Hague

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is Valletta or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta
The Hague

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

Valletta is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.


Is Valletta or The Hague Better for Students?

Valletta
The Hague

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

The Hague is a very popular city for students. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Valletta
The Hague

The Hague 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 The Hague. There are bus and tram lines 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 The Hague a more walkable city?

Valletta
The Hague

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of 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.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.


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

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or The Hague?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Valletta and The Hague. In our opinion, Valletta has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Valletta than The Hague. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Valletta than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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.


  • How many days in Valletta or The Hague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Valletta 1-3 
    The Hague 1-3

One day in Valletta or The Hague?

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 Hague is a big city with plenty to do. 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 The Hague?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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.

The Hague 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 The Hague, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valletta or The Hague?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming 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.

The Hague 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 The Hague?

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.

The Hague 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 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague or Valletta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Valletta is €116, while the average daily cost in The Hague is €178. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Valletta and The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Valletta 65
    The Hague 104
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Valletta 130
    The Hague 208
Compare Hotels in Valletta and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Valletta or The Hague? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Valletta


Hotels in The Hague


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Valletta Hotel Prices and The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Valletta 24
    The Hague 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Valletta

Also for Valletta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Valletta Cruise Port to Malta Intl Airport (MLA) - Departure Private Transfer : $14
  • Turkish Gullet Cruise to Gozo and Comino with Lunch and Transfers: $81
  • The Three Fortified Cities of Malta Half Day Tour Incl. Boat Trip and Transfers: $39
  • Private Transfer: Valletta to Malta International Airport (MLA): $31
  • Private Transfer from Valletta Cruise Port to Malta Airport (MLA): $14
  • Private Transfer from Malta Airport (MLA) to Valletta Cruise Port: $14
  • Private Airport Transfer: Malta International Airport (MLA) to Valletta: $31
  • Private Airport Transfer in Malta: $87
  • Private Airport Transfer from Malta to Gozo: $109
  • Mdina and Highlights of Malta Full Day Guided Tour Incl. Lunch and Transfers: $66
  • Malta Private Transfer from Malta Airport to any resort in Malta island: $51
  • Malta Private Airport Transfer - Arrival: $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

Also for The Hague, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278

Is it cheaper to fly into Valletta or The Hague?

Prices for flights to both The Hague and Valletta change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Valletta 32
    The Hague 55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Valletta

For Valletta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Valletta Food Tour - Eat like a local: $46
  • Valletta Food Tour: $49
  • Folklore Evening Dinner Show at a Traditional Maltese Restaurant Incl. Transfers: $67
  • Maltese Traditional Dinner and Folklore Show with Transfers: $71
  • Fireworks Festival Cruise Including Dinner, Drinks and Transport: $76
  • The Ultimate Valletta Evening Food Tour: $80
  • Fernandes Sunset Cruise including Dinner with Open Bar: $80
  • Christmas Tour in Gozo (afternoon) inc. Dinner: $86
  • Blue Lagoon & Sunset Quad Tour in Gozo/Dinner: $91
  • From Blue Lagoon and Gozo Tour w/Quads and Dinner: $118
  • The Valletta Food Tour Experience, a private tour: $150
  • Private Valletta Food Tour: $175

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Valletta 27
    The Hague 34

Tours and Activities in Valletta

For Valletta, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Cities Tour: $16
  • 3 Hours Private Picnic Experience in Malta: $273
  • 3 cities: Private Insider Walking Tour with Licensed Guide: $160
  • 30-Minute Mdina Experience Audio-Visual Show Ticket (Open Ticket): $6.55
  • 4-hr day tour around Malta: $207
  • 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Pass Bus + Harbour Cruise: $55
  • 90 minutes Harbour Cruise in Valletta - ticket only: $22
  • A Monumental Maltese Experience: $175
  • Adventures in Malta: Thrills, History, and Natural Beauty: $320
  • Best of Mdina and Rabat Walking Tour: $20
  • Best of Valletta Walking Tour: $20
  • Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk Half-Day Tour from Valletta: $37

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • Amsterdam: The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam Private Day Tour: $535
  • Bicycle tour The Hague Highlights: $27
  • Boattour The Hague and Scheveningen: $187
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Den Haag: Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Discover Delft with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover The Hague's city center with an Outside Escape game tour: $27
  • Drive it yourself electric Dune & Summer Flower GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric History and Castle GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric Tulip and Flower Fields GPS audio tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Valletta 16
    The Hague 30

Sample the Local Flavors in Valletta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Valletta:

  • Valletta Pub Crawl: $22
  • Malta Pub Crawl: $22
  • The Brewery Experience & beer tasting including transport: $35
  • The Brewery Experience Self-Guided Tour with Tasting & Transport: $35
  • Malta: The Three Cities and Wine Tasting Tour: $44

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


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


Which is Bigger, Valletta or The Hague?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta and The Hague, 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 The Hague?

The Hague 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 The Hague in the Summer?

Both The Hague 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 The Hague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Valletta is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valletta in July average around 26°C (79°F), and The Hague averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in The Hague. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during summer. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valletta usually receives less rain than The Hague. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Valletta 26°C (79°F) 
    The Hague 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Valletta or The Hague in the Autumn?

Both The Hague 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 autumn months attract visitors to The Hague because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Valletta is generally much warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 21°C (70°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the autumn, Valletta often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in October than The Hague. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Valletta 21°C (70°F) 
    The Hague 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Valletta or The Hague in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and The Hague. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to The Hague this time of year.

It's quite cold in The Hague in the winter. Valletta is much warmer than The Hague in the winter. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and The Hague fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Valletta usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during winter. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valletta usually receives more rain than The Hague. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Valletta 13°C (55°F) 
    The Hague 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Valletta or The Hague in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Valletta is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valletta in April average around 16°C (61°F), and The Hague averages at about 8°C (46°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 The Hague. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in April than The Hague. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Valletta 16°C (61°F) 
    The Hague 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for The Hague and Valletta

Valletta The Hague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)