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

Should you visit Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Valencia

Valencia is a architectural, friendly, and coastal coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Valencia is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Valencia travel costs.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a peaceful, park-filled, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. And you can't forget about the food and theater. See Stratford-upon-Avon travel costs.

Valencia and Stratford-upon-Avon: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Valencia than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Valencia is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions and small town charm. Valencia is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). Also, Valencia is famous for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Valencia 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 Valencia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Valencia is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Valencia specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is an amazing town to visit for its theatre productions. However, Valencia is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Stratford-upon-Avon. 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.

Valencia is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Valencia has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Valencia is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Music and theater are what make this nightlife interesting.

Is Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Resorts?

Valencia is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Valencia makes a nice vacation spot. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a resort destination.

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

Valencia is very good for the beach. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Valencia to enjoy the beach. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

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

Valencia 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, Valencia offers plenty to see. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Hiking?

Valencia is very good for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Valencia. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

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

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

Valencia is well-known for its shopping. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

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

Is Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon More Beautiful?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Valencia is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its impressive architecture and coastal setting, it's really hard not to fall in love with this city's beauty.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Valencia is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Valencia is very family-friendly. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Couples?

Valencia is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Valencia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good coastal city 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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Valencia. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Students?

Valencia is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Valencia. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

Valencia 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.

Valencia has some public transit options. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon a more walkable city?

Valencia is a very popular 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.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal city. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable coastal city. 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 Valencia Worth Visiting? and Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Valencia 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 Valencia.

One day in Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Each neighborhood in Valencia has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people visit Valencia 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 Valencia, 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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon?

The beautiful big city of Valencia 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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valencia. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal city 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Valencia and Stratford-upon-Avon, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon is more expensive. And not only is Valencia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Valencia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Valencia 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 Valencia.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Valencia Expensive? and Is Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive?.

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

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Valencia 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 Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Valencia or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Stratford-upon-Avon. Most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Valencia is a little warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the summer, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 195 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Stratford-upon-Avon. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Valencia because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year.

In the autumn, Valencia is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Stratford-upon-Avon. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Valencia during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Stratford-upon-Avon. In January, Valencia is generally much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Stratford-upon-Avon. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Stratford-upon-Avon. Many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring for the small town charm.

Valencia is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Stratford-upon-Avon. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Stratford-upon-Avon and Valencia