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

Should you visit Malaga or Biarritz?

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 Biarritz. 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 welcoming, historic, and beautiful 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.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a relaxing, quirky, and dynamic seaside town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Malaga and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Biarritz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Malaga than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Malaga is better known for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is more popular for its museums, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm. 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. Biarritz is well known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Malaga different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Malaga and Biarritz offer a number of superb 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.

Biarritz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Is Malaga or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Malaga is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

The people in Biarritz know how to have a good time. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

Is Malaga or Biarritz Better for Music?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its live music scene. However, Biarritz is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Malaga has diverse options. 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.

Biarritz is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Malaga is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Biarritz to choose from. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Malaga is not a resort destination.

Is Malaga or Biarritz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is a well-known place for the beache. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

Many people visit Biarritz for it's beautiful beaches. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

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 Malaga or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old 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.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Biarritz?

Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end 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 Biarritz Better for Families?

Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is a very kid-friendly seaside town. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

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

Is Malaga or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

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 Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Biarritz is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Is Malaga or Biarritz Better for Students?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Malaga is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Both Malaga and Biarritz 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.

Biarritz has some public transit options. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Is Malaga or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Malaga and Biarritz both are superb 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.

Biarritz is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Malaga Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Biarritz?

Both Malaga and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Malaga or Biarritz?

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.

Biarritz 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.

Five days in Malaga or Biarritz?

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 Biarritz. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Biarritz?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Biarritz. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

When comparing the travel costs between Malaga and Biarritz, 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 Biarritz Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Biarritz?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Biarritz, 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 Biarritz?

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 Malaga or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Malaga during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Malaga is a little warmer than Biarritz in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Biarritz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Biarritz. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Biarritz. Many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Biarritz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Malaga is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Biarritz averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Biarritz. Many visitors come to Malaga in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Malaga usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches and the small town charm.

Malaga is a little warmer than Biarritz in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Malaga