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

Should you visit Christchurch or Malaga?

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

Should I visit Christchurch 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.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Malaga

Malaga is a historic, beautiful, and friendly port city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Christchurch and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Malaga?

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

How is Christchurch different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Christchurch 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 Christchurch. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Christchurch. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

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 Christchurch or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many people head to Christchurch for the nightlife scene. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Is Christchurch or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is well known for its live music scene. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is not a live music destination.

Is Christchurch or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Christchurch or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is a well-known place for the beache. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

Many people visit Christchurch for it's beautiful beaches. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

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 Christchurch or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is well known for its old town. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Christchurch or Malaga Better for Hiking?

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

Christchurch is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Malaga?

Christchurch is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

Christchurch is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

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 Christchurch or Malaga Better for Families?

Christchurch is a must-visit destination 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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Christchurch is very family-friendly. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

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

Is Christchurch or Malaga Better for Couples?

Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is a very popular place to visit for couples. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

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

Is Christchurch or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is terrific for backpackers. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Malaga. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Is Christchurch or Malaga Better for Students?

Christchurch and Malaga are superb places to visit for students.

Christchurch is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

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 Christchurch 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 Christchurch and Malaga.

You'll find some public transit in Christchurch, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

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 Christchurch or Malaga a more walkable city?

Christchurch and Malaga both are superb when exploring on foot.

Christchurch is a very walkable city. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Malaga?

Both Christchurch 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 Christchurch. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Christchurch, and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Christchurch. 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, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this welcoming port city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Christchurch or Malaga?

Christchurch 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 fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Christchurch or Malaga?

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

In Malaga, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this welcoming destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Christchurch or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Christchurch. 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.

Malaga is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Christchurch and Malaga, we can see that Malaga is more expensive. And not only is Christchurch much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Christchurch is in Pacific and Malaga is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Christchurch would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Christchurch 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 Christchurch.

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

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 51% larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch 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 Christchurch or Malaga?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Christchurch 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 Christchurch or Malaga in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Malaga. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Christchurch is cooler than Malaga in the summer. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Christchurch, it's very sunny this time of the year. Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during summer. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Christchurch usually receives more rain than Malagain July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Christchurch or Malaga in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Malaga. The autumn months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, 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, Christchurch is much colder than Malaga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Christchurch in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Malaga averages at about 19°C (67°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. In the autumn, Christchurch often gets less sunshine than Malagain October. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Malagain October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In July, Christchurch is generally much colder than Malagain January. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 6°C (43°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during winter. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Malagain January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Christchurch or Malaga in the Spring?

Both Malaga and Christchurch during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Malaga in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Christchurch is cooler than Malaga in the spring. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F)in April.

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Christchurch. In the spring, Christchurch often gets less sunshine than Malagain April. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets more rain in October than Malagain April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Christchurch