A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malaga vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Malaga and Aix-en-Provence. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

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.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a historic, vibrant, and laid-back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Malaga and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Malaga than Aix-en-Provence, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Aix-en-Provence is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Malaga is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also home to The Alcazaba. Aix-en-Provence is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is Malaga different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Aix-en-Provence offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Malaga or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aix-en-Provence 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 Aix-en-Provence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

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 Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for Music?

Malaga is well known for its music scene. However, Aix-en-Provence 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.

Aix-en-Provence is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Malaga has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Malaga has a beach worth visiting. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence 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.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence 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 Aix-en-Provence make it a world-class shopping destination. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

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 Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Malaga. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

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

Is Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is terrific for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a good port city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Malaga and Aix-en-Provence are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Many students visit Malaga. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Is Malaga or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Malaga and Aix-en-Provence offer good public transit options.

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

Aix-en-Provence has some public transit options. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Malaga or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Malaga and Aix-en-Provence both are great when exploring on foot.

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.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable destination. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Malaga Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Malaga or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Malaga due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malaga than Aix-en-Provence 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 Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

The historic destination of Malaga offers live music and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

The port city of Malaga offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Aix-en-Provence 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.

Five days in Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

Malaga is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This port city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. 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.

A week in Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

The welcoming port city of Malaga offers shopping and nightlife. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Malaga and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Malaga Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Malaga or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Malaga or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Aix-en-Provence. Many visitors come to Malaga in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Malaga is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Malaga in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Malaga or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 19°C (67°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the autumn, Malaga often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

Malaga is much warmer than Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Malaga usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Malaga or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Malaga during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Malaga is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Malaga in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the spring, Malaga often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Aix-en-Provence. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Malaga