A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Valletta vs. Lyon for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Valletta or Lyon?

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 Lyon 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 historic, charming, and cultural town. The beauty of Valletta is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Valletta travel costs.

Lyon

Lyon is a historic, beautiful, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Lyon is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Lyon travel costs.

Valletta and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Lyon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lyon. Although Valletta and Lyon are both popular with visitors, Lyon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lyon is more popular for its nightlife, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Valletta is known for its beaches. Lyon is more touristy than Valletta and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also home to The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Valletta different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Lyon and Valletta.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Valletta has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lyon that are not to be missed. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Valletta and Lyon.

Many restaurants in Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Eat your way through Lyon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

Is Valletta or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

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

Lyon has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a moderate town for the beach. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Both Valletta and Lyon have first-rate historic old towns worth visiting.

Valletta has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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 old town of Lyon is one of the most recognized in the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Lyon?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Valletta and Lyon.

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.

Lyon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Valletta or Lyon More Beautiful?

Lyon is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Lyon is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city climbs beautifully into the hills and offers spectacular views and charming character.

Valletta is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With its long running history and striking cream buildings against the blue Mediterranean waters, this is a truly beautiful town.

Is Valletta or Lyon Better for Families?

Lyon is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lyon. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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 Lyon Better for Couples?

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Valletta has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Valletta or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta and Lyon are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Valletta or Lyon Better for Students?

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

Lyon is a very popular city for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lyon can take you anywhere. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon a more walkable city?

Valletta is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Valletta 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.

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Lyon?

In either Valletta or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Valletta because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Valletta, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

Couples should spend more time in Valletta than Lyon. 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 Lyon than Valletta 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 Lyon.

One day in Valletta or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Valletta. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Lyon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Lyon?

Valletta is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Lyon 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valletta or Lyon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Valletta. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, 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 Lyon?

The cultural town of Valletta offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Lyon is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Valletta and Lyon, we can see that Lyon is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Lyon?

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

Lyon 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 Lyon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Lyon. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the summer, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in July than Lyon. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Lyon in the Autumn?

Both Lyon and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

Valletta is much warmer than Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valletta usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lyon. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valletta or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Valletta during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lyon. In the winter, Valletta is much warmer than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valletta in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in January than Lyon. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Lyon. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Also, many visitors come to Lyon in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Valletta is generally a little warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 16°C (61°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during spring. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valletta usually receives less rain than Lyon. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Valletta