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

Should you visit Malaga or Amsterdam?

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 Amsterdam. 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. 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.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic 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 nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Malaga and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Amsterdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Malaga. Amsterdam is bigger than Malaga, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its museums, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Malaga is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Amsterdam is more touristy than Malaga and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Malaga is well known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Malaga different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam?

Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Malaga is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Malaga. 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.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Malaga or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Both Malaga and Amsterdam are world-class when it comes to partying.

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.

Amsterdam is a must-see party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Is Malaga or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

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 Malaga or Amsterdam Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Amsterdam 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.

Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Amsterdam Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Amsterdam 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.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Malaga and Amsterdam.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam 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.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

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 Amsterdam Better for Families?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam 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, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Malaga or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Amsterdam 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.

Amsterdam is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

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 Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Malaga and Amsterdam are world-class destinations for backpackers.

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.

A large number of backpackers visit Amsterdam, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Is Malaga or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Malaga is well known for students. However, Amsterdam 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.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam 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.

Amsterdam has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

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

Is Malaga or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored 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 Malaga Worth Visiting? and Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Amsterdam?

Both Malaga and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Amsterdam has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Amsterdam than Malaga. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Malaga or Amsterdam?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Malaga. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Amsterdam 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.

A weekend in Malaga or Amsterdam?

You'll find live music and food around the beautiful destination of Malaga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the historic port city of Malaga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. 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 Malaga or Amsterdam?

Malaga is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Amsterdam 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malaga and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Malaga much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Malaga would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Malaga 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 Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam than you might in Malaga.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Malaga. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Amsterdam, 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 Amsterdam?

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 Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Amsterdam. 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 Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Malaga is a little warmer than Amsterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amsterdam this time of the year. In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Malaga or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Amsterdam. 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 Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Malaga is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the autumn, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in October than Amsterdam. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Malaga usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Malaga or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Malaga is much warmer than Amsterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the spring, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Amsterdam. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Malaga