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

Should you visit Canberra or Malaga?

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

Should I visit Canberra 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.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Malaga

Malaga is a welcoming, historic, and beautiful port city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Canberra and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Canberra or Malaga?

You'll generally find more things to do in Malaga than Canberra. Malaga is bigger than Canberra, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Malaga is better known for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Canberra is more popular for its museums, hiking, and big city activities. Malaga is more touristy than Canberra and is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Also, Malaga is famous for The Alcazaba. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Canberra different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Canberra 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 Canberra. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Canberra and Malaga.

Canberra has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Dining out in Malaga is an experience not to be missed. 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 Canberra or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Malaga is a must-see 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its live music scene. However, Canberra is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Malaga has diverse options. 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.

Canberra is not a live music destination.

Is Canberra or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Malaga has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Canberra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Canberra or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a popular place for the beache. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

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.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Canberra or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Is Canberra or Malaga Better for Hiking?

Canberra is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Canberra offers some nice hiking trails. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Malaga?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Canberra and Malaga.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Canberra. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Many visitors go to Malaga to go shopping. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Is Canberra or Malaga Better for Families?

Canberra 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.

Canberra is a very kid-friendly city. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

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

Is Canberra or Malaga Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Canberra and Malaga make for a notable place to visit.

Canberra makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

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

Is Canberra or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Malaga Better for Students?

Both Canberra and Malaga are superb destinations for students.

Canberra is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Malaga is very popular with students. 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.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Canberra and Malaga.

Canberra has some public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

You'll find some public transit in Malaga, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.

Is Canberra or Malaga a more walkable city?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Malaga?

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

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Canberra. 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 Canberra or Malaga?

Canberra 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 Canberra or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. 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 Canberra or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Canberra. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 The Best Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Canberra 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. Even though Canberra is in Pacific and Malaga is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Canberra or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra 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 Canberra or Malaga?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Malaga has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Canberra or Malaga in the Summer?

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

Canberra is cooler than Malaga in the summer. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in July.

Canberra usually gets more rain in January than Malagain July. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Malaga in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Canberra is cooler than Malaga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Canberra in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Malaga averages at about 19°C (67°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Canberra. In April, Canberra usually receives more rain than Malagain October. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Canberra or Malaga in the Winter?

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

In July, Canberra is generally cooler than Malagain January. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 11°C (52°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Canberra usually gets less rain in July than Malagain January. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Malaga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Malaga. Many travelers come to Canberra for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Malaga in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Canberra is around the same temperature as Malaga in the spring. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 15°C (60°F) in October, and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F)in April.

In October, Canberra usually receives more rain than Malagain April. Canberra gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Canberra