Which city is cheaper, Malaga or Antalya?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Malaga for Nightlife, Beaches, Backpackers, and Food
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Should you visit Antalya or Malaga?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Antalya or Malaga? 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.
Antalya
Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.
Malaga
Malaga is a welcoming, historic, and beautiful port city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and shopping.
How is Antalya different from Malaga?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Food?
Picking the best between Antalya and Malaga can be difficult as they are each unique in their own way.
Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey here it is no exception. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream.
Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Malaga. Head to any of the local food markets and seafood shops to try local cuisine. Also make sure you try tapas and a filling Andalusian breakfast.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Nightlife?
The nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Malaga.
Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.
Malaga is a world class party destination. The city has some of the most active nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of opportunities to party in Malaga and you'll find the most vibrant nightlife in the Centro Historico.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Music?
It can be fun to see live music in either Antalya and Malaga.
The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.
The music scene in Malaga is very popular with diverse venues. The city has venues that offer pop, rock, blues, soulful, and more. Some of the most popular include ZZ club, Clarence Jazz Club, and Velvet Club.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?
There's scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Antalya and Malaga.
Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.
Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Malaga. Water temperatures are mild enough for diving or snorkeling near Malaga. For the best diving, head to Cala del Canuelo Beach. Closer by, Penon del Cuervo Beach offers diving and snorkeling as well.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Beaches?
Most people pick Antalya for its beaches over Malaga.
Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.
You can check out the beach in Malaga. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for its Old Town?
It's fun to wander around the old towns in both Antalya and Malaga.
Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.
There are many historical things to see in the old town of Malaga. The city's old town is compact and small, making it a fun place to walk. There are historic buildings, museums, churches, and squares, as well as many restaurants and shops.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Shopping?
Antalya often provides a better shopping experience than Malaga.
Many people travel to Antalya specifically to go shopping. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.
Malaga offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Families?
Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Malaga.
You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.
Malaga is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Couples?
With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Malaga make for a good place to visit.
Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.
Malaga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Antalya and Malaga are both good destinations for backpackers.
Antalya is a very popular vacation spot for backpackers and budget travelers. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.
With so many budget-friendly offerings, Malaga is extremely popular for backpackers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.
Is Antalya or Malaga better for Public Transit?
Visitors will find public transit in both Antalya and Malaga.
Antalya offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.
Malaga has a few public transit options. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.
Is Antalya or Malaga a more walkable city?
Antalya and Malaga are similar when it comes to walkability.
Antalya is a somewhat walkable vacation spot. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.
Malaga is a very walkable vacation spot. It has a very compact and walkable historic center with most of the tourist attractions easily accessible on foot.
Antalya and Malaga: Pros and Cons
Antalya
Pros- Good music scene
- Good scuba and snorkeling destination
- Popular beach
- Good for shopping
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Impressive beauty
Malaga
Pros- Good music scene
- Good scuba and snorkeling destination
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Impressive beauty
- Less attractive beach
- Less popular for shopping
Should I spend more time in Malaga or Antalya?
How long in Antalya or Malaga?
Both Antalya and Malaga have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Malaga than Antalya.
The ideal length of time for a trip to Antalya is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Malaga is 3-7 days.
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How many days in Antalya or Malaga? Ideal Length of StayAntalya 2-5Malaga 3-7
One day in Antalya or Malaga?
Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Antalya. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
In Malaga, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
A weekend in Antalya or Malaga?
Antalya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
In Malaga, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.
Five days in Antalya or Malaga?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Malaga is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
A week in Antalya or Malaga?
Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Antalya. This vacation spot offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayAntalya $27Malaga $111
The average daily cost (per person) in Antalya is $27, while the average daily cost in Malaga is $111. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Antalya and Malaga in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personAntalya $13Malaga $57
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomAntalya $26Malaga $114
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Antalya $4.32Malaga $26
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antalya
Also for Antalya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Transfers: $5.00
- One-Way Shared Transfer: Antalya City & Beach to Antalya Airport: $9.95
- One-Way Shared Transfer: Antalya Airport to Belek: $11
- Private Airport Transfer: from Antalya Airport (AYT) to Antalya: $13
- Private Airport Transfer: from Antalya to Antalya Airport (AYT): $13
- One-Way Shared Transfer: Antalya Airport to Kemer: $14
- One-Way Shared Transfer: Antalya Airport to Side: $14
- One-Way Shared Transfer: Antalya Airport to Alanya: $14
- Antalya Airport - Antalya City Hotels Private Transfers (Lara, Kundu, Old Town): $17
- Private Departure Transfer: Kundu / Lara Region Hotels to Antalya Airport: $22
- Private Arrival Transfer: Antalya Airport to Antalya, Kundu or Lara: $22
- Private Departure Transfer from Antalya, Kundu or Lara to Antalya Airport: $22
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malaga
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malaga:
- Transfer from your Hotel to Malaga Airport (Departure Transfer): $17
- Transfer from Nerja to Granada: $62
- Transfer from Malaga Airport to Costa del Sol Hotels (Any Hotel): $17
- TRANSFER MALAGA AIRPORT from/to ESTEPONA-PRICE ALL INCLUSIVE: $133
- Shared Arrival Transfer: Malaga Airport to Costa del Sol Hotels: $36
- Round Trip Malaga Airport (AGP) Transfer to Malaga City Center: $39
- Private arrival OR departure transfer in Malaga (hotel OR airport pick-up): $34
- Private Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport (AGP): $622
- Private Transfer: Malaga Airport (AGP) to Malaga: $622
- Private Transfer from/to Motril to/from Malaga with private driver: $158
- Private Transfer from Rivera del Sol to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $88
- Private Transfer from Málaga to Faro (FAO) Airport: $909
Is it cheaper to fly into Antalya or Malaga?
Prices for flights to both Malaga and Antalya 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
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Food Meals for one dayAntalya $9.00Malaga $29
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antalya
For Antalya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Giza Pyramids Sound and Light Show with Dinner: $83
Typical Food prices in Malaga
Some typical examples of dining costs in Malaga are as follows:
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Breakfast for 2$8.41
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Malaga
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Malaga.
- Sardines Espetos Cooking Workshop: $73
- Malaga Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $86
- Sardines On Skewers Cooking Class in Malaga: $111
- Malaga Sunset Cruise and Restaurant Dinner: $112
- Málaga Swim Cruise with Tapas Dinner and Flamenco Show: $128
- Malaga Catamaran Cruise with BBQ Lunch and Port Restaurant Dinner: $146
- Malaga Market Visit and Cooking Class in Malaga Countryside House: $149
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Antalya $7.16Malaga $26
Tours and Activities in Antalya
For Antalya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- Skip the Line: Yoruk Parki Kemer Admission Ticket: $5.75
- Admission Ticket to Sandland Antalya: $7.46
- Shopping Tour From Kemer: $10
- Smartphone Audio City Tour: $14
- From Manavgat: Boat Tour to Side: $22
- Sapadere Canyon Full-Day Sightseeing Tour from Alanya: $28
- Canyoning and Rafting Tours from Antalya: $29
- Antalya Rafting Tour: $31
- Antalya Local Bazaar Tour: $33
- Koprulu Canyon Water Rafting Adventure with Lunch from Antalya: $34
- Turkey: Day Tour of Ancient Lycia: $34
- Day Tour to Xanthos City, Saklikent Canyon and Patara Beach: $36
Typical Entertainment prices in Malaga
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Malaga are as follows:
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Entrance to Castillos$7.47
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Concert$32
Tours and Activities in Malaga
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Malaga are as follows:
- 1 Hour Malaga Panoramic Segway Tour: $39
- 1-hour Segway Tour in Malaga: $28
- 1.5-Hour Roman Theater and Alcazaba Castle Walking Tour: $16
- 2-day Granada, Toledo & Madrid Tour from Costa del Sol: $311
- 2-hour E-bike Tour of Malaga: $30
- 3 Hours Malaga Tapas Crawl Tour: $83
- 4-Day Morocco Tour: Fez, Meknes, Rabat and Tangier: $671
- 5-Day Morocco Tour: Casablanca, Marrakech, Meknes, Fez and Rabat from Malaga: $677
- 6-Night Morocco Tour from Fez, Meknes, Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier: $899
- 7-Day Morocco Tour from Costa del Sol: Fez, Meknes, Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier: $899
- 8 Days Morocco Tour From Spain: $1,460
- 90min Segway Small Group Tour in Malaga: $34
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayAntalya $4.01Malaga $18
Sample the Local Flavors in Malaga
Also in Malaga, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Malaga Nightlife - Pub Crawl Tour with Skip-the-line Club Access: $26
- Frigiliana Small-Group Hike and Wine Tasting Tour from Malaga: $49
- Muscatel Winery Tour and Wine Tastings from Malaga: $75
- Malaga Tapas and Wine Tour: $81
- Flamenco, Tapas and Wine Tour: BEST OF Málaga in one evening!: $108
- Private Ronda Wine Tour with Tapas Including a Visit to Ronda: $404
- Ronda Private Full Day Wine Tour with Tapas: $406
- Malaga Shore Excursion: Panoramic Buggy Tour with Wine Tasting in a Historical Cellar: $481
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antalya and Malaga, we can see that Malaga is more expensive. And not only is Antalya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antalya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antalya 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 Malaga would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Malaga than you might in Antalya.
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