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

Should you visit Lisbon or Malaga?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Malaga

Malaga is a welcoming, historic, and beautiful port city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Lisbon and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Malaga?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Malaga are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Malaga is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Malaga is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Lisbon different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

The amazing nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Malaga.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Malaga is a world class 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.

Is Lisbon or Malaga Better for Music?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Lisbon The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Malaga while you're in town. 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.

Is Lisbon or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Malaga Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Lisbon and Malaga are good choices.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Many people head to Malaga to enjoy the beach. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Is Lisbon or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Lisbon can be explored in its historical center. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Malaga?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Malaga Better for Families?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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

Is Lisbon or Malaga Better for Couples?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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

Is Lisbon or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Malaga are both amazing destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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.

Is Lisbon or Malaga Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Malaga are superb destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination 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.

Lisbon has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Lisbon or Malaga a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Malaga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Malaga?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Malaga 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Malaga?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

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 Lisbon or Malaga?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Malaga?

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

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 Lisbon or Malaga?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the welcoming 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Malaga in the Summer?

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

In July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Malaga. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the summer, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in July than Malaga. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Malaga in the Autumn?

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

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Malaga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Malaga fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Malaga. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Malaga in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Malaga averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Malaga. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Malaga in the Spring?

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

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Malaga. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Lisbon