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

Should you visit Malaga or Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux. 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.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a elegant, charming, and romantic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Malaga and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Bordeaux?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bordeaux than Malaga. While Malaga is larger than Bordeaux, Bordeaux has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bordeaux is better known for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Bordeaux is more touristy than Malaga and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. 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 Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bordeaux is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Bordeaux offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Malaga just to party. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Malaga or Bordeaux Better for Music?

Malaga is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Bordeaux Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Bordeaux is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a popular place for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

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.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a great destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

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 Bordeaux Better for Families?

Both Malaga and Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is a family-friendly port city. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Malaga or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is a very popular place to visit for couples. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

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 Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Malaga or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Malaga and Bordeaux are both superb 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.

Bordeaux is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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

Bordeaux is a well-known place 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.

Bordeaux has some very good public transit options. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

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

Is Malaga or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Malaga and Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Bordeaux?

In either Malaga or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Malaga than Bordeaux because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

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

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bordeaux. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Malaga or Bordeaux?

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.

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Bordeaux?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Bordeaux. This city 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Bordeaux?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Malaga is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Malaga or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Bordeaux. Many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Malaga is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 14°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 Bordeaux. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in October than Bordeaux. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Malaga in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. In January, Malaga usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Malaga or Bordeaux in the Spring?

Both Bordeaux and Malaga during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Malaga is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the spring, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Bordeaux. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Malaga