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

Should you visit Corfu or Malaga?

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

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

Corfu

Corfu is a natural, breathtaking, and striking island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Malaga

Malaga is a beautiful, friendly, and welcoming 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.

Corfu and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Malaga?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Corfu than Malaga, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Corfu is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, and historical sights. Corfu is well known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. Also, Corfu is famous for Canal d'Amour. Malaga is well known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Corfu different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Corfu 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 Corfu, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

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 Corfu or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

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.

Corfu offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

Is Corfu or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is a great port city for its live music scene. However, Corfu is not a live music destination.

Malaga has a thriving music scene. 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.

Corfu is not a live music destination.

Is Corfu or Malaga Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Corfu for its luxury resorts. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Malaga is not a resort destination.

Is Corfu or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Corfu. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

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.

Is Corfu or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Corfu 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.

Corfu offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

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 Corfu or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a great port city for its old town. However, Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Malaga to see the historical old town. 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.

Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Is Corfu or Malaga Better for Hiking?

Corfu is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Corfu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Malaga?

Corfu 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.

Corfu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

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 Corfu or Malaga Better for Families?

Corfu 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, Corfu is very family-friendly. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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

Is Corfu or Malaga Better for Couples?

Corfu is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

Corfu is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

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

Is Corfu or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Corfu is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

Is Corfu or Malaga Better for Students?

Malaga is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. However, Corfu 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.

Corfu is not popular with students.

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

Corfu 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.

Corfu has some very good public transit options. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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

Is Corfu or Malaga a more walkable city?

Corfu and Malaga are great when it comes to walkability.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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 Corfu Worth Visiting? and Is Malaga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Malaga?

Both Corfu and Malaga have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Corfu has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Corfu than Malaga. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Corfu. 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 live music and food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Corfu or Malaga?

Corfu 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Corfu or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. 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 fun place to experience. In Malaga, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Corfu or Malaga?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Corfu. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

In Malaga, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this beautiful destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Corfu or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Corfu. When comparing the sizes of Corfu 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 Corfu 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 Corfu or Malaga in the Summer?

Both Malaga and Corfu during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Corfu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Malaga in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Corfu is around the same temperature as Malaga in the summer. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Corfu. In the summer, Corfu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets more rain in July than Malaga. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Malaga in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Malaga. Many visitors come to Corfu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Corfu is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Corfu in October average around 18°C (65°F), and Malaga averages at about 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. Corfu usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during autumn. Corfu gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Corfu gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Corfu usually receives more rain than Malaga. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Corfu or Malaga in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Malaga. Most visitors come to Corfu for 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 January, Corfu is generally cooler than Malaga. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 10°C (49°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Corfu often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Corfu gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun.

Corfu receives a lot of rain in the winter. Corfu usually gets more rain in January than Malaga. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Malaga in the Spring?

Both Malaga and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Corfu because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

Corfu is cooler than Malaga in the spring. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. Corfu usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during spring. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Corfu usually receives more rain than Malaga. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Corfu