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

Should you visit Arachova or Malaga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Malaga, 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.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Malaga

Malaga is a historic, beautiful, and friendly port city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Arachova and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Arachova or Malaga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Malaga. Although Arachova and Malaga are popular destinations, Malaga has more sights and attractions for tourists. Malaga is very popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Arachova attracts visitors for its skiing, museums, hiking, and small town charm. Arachova is famous for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Malaga is famous for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Alcazaba.

How is Arachova different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Malaga Better for Skiing?

Arachova is a good destination for snow skiing. However, Malaga is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Malaga is not a skiing destination.

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

Arachova is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Malaga can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Malaga has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Arachova or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Malaga is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Many people head to Arachova for the nightlife scene. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Is Arachova or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is well known for live music. However, Arachova is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Malaga. 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.

Arachova is not a live music destination.

Is Arachova or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Malaga has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arachova or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

Malaga has a beach worth visiting. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Arachova and Malaga both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Malaga is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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 Arachova or Malaga Better for Hiking?

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

Arachova is a popular spot for hiking. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Malaga?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Malaga and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Malaga. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Is Arachova or Malaga Better for Families?

Arachova 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.

Arachova is a very kid-friendly town. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Malaga is a family-friendly town. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

Is Arachova or Malaga Better for Couples?

Arachova 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.

Arachova is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Malaga is a good town for couples to visit. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

Is Arachova or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Malaga is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

Is Arachova or Malaga Better for Students?

Malaga is well known for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Malaga is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Malaga.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

While Malaga offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.

Is Arachova or Malaga a more walkable city?

Malaga is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Malaga?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malaga than Arachova 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 Arachova or Malaga?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Arachova. 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.

The beautiful port city of Malaga offers shopping and nightlife. 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 Arachova or Malaga?

Arachova 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.

Malaga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Malaga is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Arachova. This town 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.

Malaga is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Arachova or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova or Malaga?

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 Arachova or Malaga in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Malaga. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Malaga in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arachova is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Malaga averages at about 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives more rain than Malaga. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Arachova or Malaga in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Malaga. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Malaga. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the autumn, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Malaga. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Arachova or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Arachova is cooler than Malaga in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Arachova usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Malaga. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Arachova or Malaga in the Spring?

Both Malaga and Arachova during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

In the spring, Arachova is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Malaga averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the spring, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Malaga. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Arachova