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

Should you visit Chania or Malaga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania 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.

Chania

Chania is a historic, idyllic, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Malaga

Malaga is a historic, beautiful, and friendly port city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Chania and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Malaga?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Malaga. While Malaga is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Malaga is known for its nightlife, music, and impressive beauty. Chania is popular for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor. Malaga is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Chania different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chania 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 Chania. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Chania is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Chania, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

Malaga has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Chania or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Malaga just to party. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Chania has a few options to choose from. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

Is Chania or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is well known for its music scene. However, Chania 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.

Chania is not a live music destination.

Is Chania or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find good snorkeling or scuba diving in both Chania and Malaga.

Chania has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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 Chania or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Chania 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.

Chania offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

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 Chania or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Chania to see the historical old town. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

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 Chania or Malaga Better for Hiking?

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

Chania is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Malaga?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Malaga and Chania.

Many visitors go to Chania to go shopping. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Malaga. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Is Chania or Malaga Better for Families?

Chania 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.

Chania is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

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

Is Chania or Malaga Better for Couples?

Chania 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.

Chania is a very popular place to visit for couples. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

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

Is Chania or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Malaga is a very popular port city to visit for backpackers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Chania is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

Is Chania or Malaga Better for Students?

Malaga is well known for students. However, Chania 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.

Chania is not popular with students.

Is Chania 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 Chania and Malaga.

You'll find some public transit in Chania, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

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 Chania or Malaga a more walkable city?

Chania and Malaga both are great when exploring on foot.

Chania is a very walkable destination. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Chania?

How long in Chania or Malaga?

Both Chania 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 Chania. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Chania. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Malaga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chania or Malaga?

Chania is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Malaga is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Chania or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Chania or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque destination of Chania. This city 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the beautiful destination of Malaga. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages 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 Chania and Malaga, we can see that Malaga is more expensive. And not only is Chania much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chania would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chania 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 Chania.

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania 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 Chania 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 Chania or Malaga in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Malaga. Many travelers come to Chania for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, 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 July, Chania is generally around the same temperature as Malaga. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°C (80°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Malaga during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Malaga. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Malaga in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chania as well as Malaga. Many visitors come to Chania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Chania is around the same temperature as Malaga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Malaga fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. In the autumn, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets more rain in October than Malaga. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chania for 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.

In the winter, Chania is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Malaga averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Chania usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chania. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Malaga. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Malaga in the Spring?

Both Malaga and Chania during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Chania because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

In April, Chania is generally around the same temperature as Malaga. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chania. In the spring, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Malaga. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Chania