A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers York vs. Barcelona for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit York or Barcelona?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit York or Barcelona? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

York

York is a historic, medieval, and fanciful city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a laid-back, historic, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

York and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in York or Barcelona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona than York, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Barcelona is more popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while York is known for its food and historical sights. Barcelona is more touristy than York and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also home to Basilica Sagrada Familia. York is popular for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours.

How is York different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Barcelona and York. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in York or Barcelona?

Both York and Barcelona have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.

York offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

Many visitors head to Barcelona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in York or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in York have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is York or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Barcelona just to party. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

York has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Is York or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for live music. However, York is not a live music destination.

Barcelona is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

York is not a live music destination.

Is York or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a popular place for its beaches. However, York is not a beach destination.

Barcelona is a good option for a beach vacation. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

York is not a beach destination.

Is York or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

York is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of York is one of the most recognized in the world. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in York or Barcelona?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Barcelona is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or Barcelona Better for Families?

York is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

York is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is York or Barcelona Better for Couples?

York is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

York is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is York or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Barcelona is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Many backpackers visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Is York or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for students. However, York is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

York is not popular with students.

Is York or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Barcelona is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is York or Barcelona a more walkable city?

York is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

York is somewhat walkable. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is York Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or York?

How long in York or Barcelona?

Both York and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in York. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for York, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

Couples should spend more time in York than Barcelona. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in York that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than York 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 Barcelona.

One day in York or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of York. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in York or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of York. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of York. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Barcelona is a youthful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in York or Barcelona?

York 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.

Barcelona is a cultural city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between York and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is York much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to York would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in York 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in York.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is York Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, York or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York and Barcelona, 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 York or Barcelona?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit York or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and York are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to York in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

York is cooler than Barcelona in the summer. The daily temperature in York averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. York usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives more rain than Barcelona. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit York or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and York during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to York for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, York is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in York in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Barcelona averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, York often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in October than Barcelona. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Barcelona. The winter months attract visitors to York because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

The weather in York can be very cold. In January, York is generally much colder than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in York average around 4°C (39°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

York usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives more rain than Barcelona. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit York or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to York as well as Barcelona. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

York is much colder than Barcelona in the spring. The daily temperature in York averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. In the spring, York often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in April than Barcelona. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and York