A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Malaga for Nightlife, Beaches, Backpackers, and Food

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 shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Antalya and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Malaga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya than Malaga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antalya is more popular for its museums, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Malaga is known for its nightlife and music. Antalya is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Malaga is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Antalya different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Malaga?

Antalya is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Antalya. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Antalya or Malaga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Malaga can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Malaga makes for a great culinary experience. 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?

Malaga is an amazing port city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Malaga has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Antalya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Antalya or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is a very popular place for its music scene. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for live music.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Malaga while you're in town. 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.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Is Antalya or Malaga Better for Resorts?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Malaga is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Antalya for its luxury resorts. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Malaga is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's good 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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

Antalya offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Malaga is a good option for a beach vacation. 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 superb 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 is a nice variety of sights 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 Hiking?

Antalya is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Antalya is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Malaga?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Malaga has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Is Antalya or Malaga Better for Families?

Antalya is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Antalya is a very kid-friendly vacation spot. 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 vacation spot. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

Is Antalya or Malaga Better for Couples?

Antalya is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

Antalya is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 is a good vacation spot for couples to visit. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

Is Antalya or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is an amazing port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Malaga, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Antalya. 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.

Is Antalya or Malaga Better for Students?

Malaga is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

Malaga is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has many opportunities to learn Spanish. It's also an affordable city with a young population and a lively atmosphere that appeals to international students.

Antalya is not popular with students.

Is Antalya or Malaga Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Antalya has some very good public transit options. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Malaga has some public transit options. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.

Is Antalya or Malaga a more walkable city?

Malaga is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Malaga is a very walkable destination. It has a very compact and walkable historic center with most of the tourist attractions easily accessible on foot.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Malaga Worth Visiting?.

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 in Antalya. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malaga than Antalya 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 Malaga.

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. In Malaga, you'll find live music and food. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Malaga, we can see that Malaga 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 Antalya Expensive? and Is Malaga Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Malaga?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Malaga. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Malaga, 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 Antalya or Malaga?

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 Antalya or Malaga in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Malaga. Most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Malaga. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Malaga. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets more rain in July than Malaga. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Malaga in the Autumn?

Both Malaga and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Antalya because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

Antalya is around the same temperature as Malaga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Malaga fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Malaga during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antalya usually receives more rain than Malaga. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Antalya during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Antalya is cooler than Malaga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Malaga averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Malaga. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Malaga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Malaga. Many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Malaga in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Malaga. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Malaga during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives more rain than Malaga. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Antalya