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

Should you visit Malaga or Bellagio?

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 Bellagio. 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.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a glamorous, opulent, and beautiful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and shopping.

Malaga and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Malaga or Bellagio?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Malaga than Bellagio, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Malaga is better known for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Bellagio is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Bellagio is more touristy than Malaga and is known for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. Malaga is well known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Also, Malaga is famous for The Alcazaba.

How is Malaga different from Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Malaga
Bellagio

Bellagio is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Bellagio offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Malaga
Bellagio

Both Malaga and Bellagio offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

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.

Bellagio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

Is Malaga or Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Malaga
Bellagio

Malaga is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Malaga is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is Malaga or Bellagio Better for Music?

Malaga
Bellagio

Malaga is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Bellagio is not a live music destination.

Malaga has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. 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.

Bellagio is not a live music destination.


Is Malaga or Bellagio Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga
Bellagio

Malaga is a port city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bellagio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Malaga. 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.

Bellagio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Bellagio Better for Beaches?

Malaga
Bellagio

Malaga is a port city with good options for the beache. However, Bellagio is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Malaga. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Bellagio is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Bellagio Better for its Old Town?

Malaga
Bellagio

Malaga is a great destination for its old town. However, Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

Malaga is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Bellagio does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Bellagio?

Malaga
Bellagio

Both Malaga and Bellagio are notable shopping destinations.

Malaga offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Bellagio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Malaga or Bellagio Better for Families?

Malaga
Bellagio

Both Malaga and Bellagio are notable family-friendly destinations.

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

Bellagio is a family-friendly port city. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Is Malaga or Bellagio Better for Couples?

Malaga
Bellagio

Bellagio 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.

Bellagio is a very popular place to visit for couples. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.

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 Bellagio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga
Bellagio

Malaga is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options 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.

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is Malaga or Bellagio Better for Students?

Malaga
Bellagio

Malaga is a great destination for students. However, Bellagio is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Bellagio is not popular with students.

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

Malaga
Bellagio

Both Malaga and Bellagio offer notable public transit options.

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

Bellagio has some public transit options. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.


Is Malaga or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Malaga
Bellagio

Bellagio 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 Bellagio on foot. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are 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 Bellagio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Malaga or Bellagio to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Malaga than Bellagio because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bellagio.

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

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


  • How many days in Malaga or Bellagio? Ideal Length of Stay
    Malaga 3-7 
    Bellagio 1-2

One day in Malaga or Bellagio?

The beautiful port city of Malaga offers shopping and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Bellagio might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malaga or Bellagio?

Malaga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Bellagio 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 Bellagio?

Malaga is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Malaga is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer. This port city offers something for everyone.

Bellagio is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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, The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Bellagio or Malaga?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Malaga is €140, while the average daily cost in Bellagio is €222. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Malaga and Bellagio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Malaga 75
    Bellagio 166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Malaga 150
    Bellagio 332
Compare Hotels in Malaga and Bellagio

Looking for a hotel in Malaga or Bellagio? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Malaga


Hotels in Bellagio


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Malaga Hotel Prices and Bellagio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Bellagio 9.02

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malaga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malaga:

  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Marbella - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga Airport AGP to Malaga by Luxury Van: $57
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport AGP by Business Car: $51
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport AGP by Luxury Car: $73
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport AGP by Luxury Van: $53
  • Departure Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport AGP by Business Car: $51
  • Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) to Malaga Port - Arrival private Transfer: $19
  • Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) to Malaga Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $37
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Granada - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Malaga - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Marbella - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Malaga Airport (Costa del Sol) Private Arrival Transfer: $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bellagio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bellagio:

  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Bellagio: $351
  • From Bellagio : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $382

Is it cheaper to fly into Malaga or Bellagio?

Prices for flights to both Bellagio and Malaga change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Malaga 35
    Bellagio 46
Typical Food Prices in Malaga

Some typical examples of dining costs in Malaga are as follows:


  • Dinner for 2
    30
  • Dinner for 2
    44
  • Breakfast for 2
    8.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Malaga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Malaga.

  • Dinner and Show at Alegría Flamenco & Restaurant in Malaga: $65
  • Malaga Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $86
  • Malaga Tapas Cooking Class: $89
  • Sardines On Skewers Show Cooking in Malaga beach: $147

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bellagio

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bellagio.

  • Como Lake: cooking class Italian style in Bellagio: $191
  • Bellagio Food Tour + Villa Melzi: $209
  • Cooking Class with Lunch with the chef: $534

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Bellagio -
Typical Entertainment Prices in Malaga

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Malaga are as follows:


  • Entrance to Castillos
    7.10
  • Concert
    31

Tours and Activities in Malaga

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Malaga are as follows:

  • Skip the Line: Picasso's Birthplace Museum Entrance Ticket: $4.36
  • Guided Walking Tour of the Old Town of Frigiliana: $5.45
  • Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Malaga: $7.08
  • Ronda Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.95
  • Malaga Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Skip the Line: Centre Pompidou in Malaga Ticket: $9.82
  • Museo Carmen Thyssen de Malaga Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Skip the Line: Malaga Automobile and Fashion Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Guided tour in Ronda: $13
  • Andalucia's City Of Dreams: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Ronda: $15
  • Essential Malaga City Tour: $16
  • Tour around the Central Market of Malaga: $16

Tours and Activities in Bellagio

Here are a few actual costs in Bellagio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Shared Boat Tour from Bellagio: $43
  • Lake Como: Villa Melzi Garden Entry Ticket with Ferries: $71
  • Lake Como: Villa Carlotta Entry Tickets with Ferries: $78
  • Lake Como: Small-Group Kayak Tour: $93
  • From Milan: Como & Bellagio Guided Tour & Lake Como Cruise: $106
  • Lake Como Sunset Boat Tour with Prosecco: $118
  • Lake Como: Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour: $123
  • From Milan: Bellagio & Lake Como Small Group Tour: $127
  • Vintage Wooden Boat Rowing Experience on Lake Como: $187
  • Bellagio Walking Tour + Lunch + Villa Balbianello: $315
  • Exclusive Lake Como Boat Tour From Bellagio: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Malaga 22
    Bellagio 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Malaga

Also in Malaga, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Malaga Nightlife Pub Crawl Tour with Drinks and Clubs Entry: $17
  • Guided Cellar Tour and wine tasting: $35
  • Frigiliana Small-Group Hike and Wine Tasting Tour from Malaga: $60
  • Sun and Wine Route - Small group, wine tasting and lunch included: $76
  • Malaga Food Walking Tour with Tapas & Wine Tasting: $98
  • Ronda Tour & Winery Experience with Wine Tasting from Malaga: $109
  • Malaga Tapas and Wine Tour: $136


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malaga and Bellagio, we can see that Bellagio 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 Bellagio would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bellagio 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 Bellagio Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Malaga or Bellagio?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Bellagio. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Bellagio, 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 Bellagio?

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 Bellagio in the Summer?

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

Malaga is around the same temperature as Bellagio in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Bellagio fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bellagio this time of the year. In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Bellagio receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Malaga 25°C (77°F) 
    Bellagio 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Bellagio in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Bellagio. The autumn months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bellagio this time of year.

In the autumn, Malaga is a little warmer than Bellagio. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Bellagio averages at about 15°C (58°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 Bellagio. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bellagio. Malaga usually gets less rain in October than Bellagio. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Malaga 19°C (67°F) 
    Bellagio 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Bellagio in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bellagio. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Malaga usually receives more rain than Bellagio. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Malaga 12°C (54°F) 
    Bellagio 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Bellagio in the Spring?

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

Malaga is a little warmer than Bellagio in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Bellagio fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the spring, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun.

Bellagio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Bellagio. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Malaga 16°C (60°F) 
    Bellagio 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bellagio and Malaga

Malaga Bellagio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)