A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malaga vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a awe-inspiring, epic, and majestic mountain town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Malaga and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mont Blanc


Is there more to do in Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Malaga, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is better known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is famous for Mont Blanc. Malaga is well known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Malaga different from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a must-visit destination for snow skiing. However, Malaga is not a skiing destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Malaga is not a skiing destination.


Is the Food Better in Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Both Malaga and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc offer a number of excellent 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Malaga is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

The people in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc know how to have a good time. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Music?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its live music scene. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a live music destination.


Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Malaga is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for its luxury resorts. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Malaga is not a resort destination.

Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Malaga is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Beaches?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Malaga is a good destination for the beache. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.


Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for its Old Town?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Malaga is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Malaga. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very kid-friendly mountain town. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

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

Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Malaga is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.


Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Students?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

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

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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

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

Is Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Malaga
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Malaga and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc both are excellent 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable destination. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Malaga Worth Visiting? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Malaga and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Malaga has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Malaga than Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 4-7 days is enough time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malaga than Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Ideal Length of Stay
    Malaga 3-7 
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7

One day in Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people visit Malaga for a weekend. Lots of people come for the nightlife. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, five days is sufficent for most.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this friendly destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This port city offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the world-class destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is €235. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Malaga 75
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Malaga 150
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 180
Compare Hotels in Malaga and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Looking for a hotel in Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc


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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malaga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malaga:

  • Vip Transfer from Malaga Airport to Malaga Fuengirola or Marbella: $55
  • Vip Private Transfer from Malaga Airport to Gibraltar Border: $164
  • Transfer from Malaga Airport to Costa del Sol Hotels (Any Hotel): $42
  • TRANSFER MALAGA AIRPORT from OR to ESTEPONA-PRICE ALL INCLUSIVE: $125
  • Private Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport (AGP): $33
  • Private Transfer from/to Seville to/from Malaga & Stop Alhambra: $230
  • Private Transfer from/to Motril to/from Malaga with private driver: $159
  • Private Transfer from airport to Malaga : $69
  • Private Transfer from Torrequebrada to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $57
  • Private Transfer from Torremuelle to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $57
  • Private Transfer from Torremolinos to Malaga (AGP) airport: $39
  • Private Transfer from Sitio de Calahonda to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chamonix to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $71
  • Courmayeur to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Chamonix (FR) to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $131
  • Courmayeur to Milan Malpensa Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $137
  • Chamonix-Morzine-Avoriaz to Geneva Airport GVA-Departure Transfer: $147
  • Courmayeur, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $153
  • Courmayeur Ski Club to Linate Airport (LIN) - Departure Transfer: $162
  • Private Departure Transfer from Chamonix to Milan Airport: $170
  • Private Transfer Chamonix and Morzine to Milan Malpensa Airport: $229

Is it cheaper to fly into Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Prices for flights to both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 48
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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Food Tour in Chamonix: $444

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 80
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:

  • Half-Day Luxury Motor Yacht Cruise in Granada: $153
  • Private Tour of Ronda and Setenil de Las Bodegas: $240
  • Sealife Benalmadena Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Winery and Olive Mill Guided and Tasting Tour with Tapas: $120
  • 1 Hour Buggy Safari Experience in the Mountains of Mijas with Guide: $87
  • 1.5-Hour Roman Theater and Alcazaba Castle Walking Tour: $16
  • 1h buggy tour: $115
  • 2 Hour Family Buggy Tour, Off-Road Adventure in Mijas: $164
  • 2 Hour Quad/ATV Tour Off-Road Adventure in Mijas: $142
  • 2 Hours Buggy Safari Experience in the Mountains of Mijas with Guide: $125
  • 2 Hours Kayak Tour in Cerro Gordo Natural Park, La Herradura: $28
  • 2-Hour French Guided Walking Tour in Malaga: $20

Tours and Activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • On an adventure with Rosalie - Nancy-sur-Cluses: $5.45
  • Monte Bianco Skyway Experience : $144
  • Fly in Paragliding! Paragliding experience over Chamonix!: $171
  • Live an eBike Mountain Bike Experience in the Heart of Chamonix Mont-Blanc: $195
  • Bespoke Private Chamonix Experience: $196
  • Altitude experience above Chamonix by eBike: $298
  • Chamonix: Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • From Geneva: Chamonix Mont-Blanc Private Guided Tour: $416
  • Geneva: Private Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour: $538

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Malaga 22
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 9.64

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver - 10 hours: $823


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


Which is Bigger, Malaga or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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.