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

Should you visit Malaga or Como?

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 Como. 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Como

Como is a scenic, trendy, and fun lake area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Malaga and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Como?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Malaga than Como, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and historical sights, while Como is known for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Como is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Malaga is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also home to The Alcazaba.

How is Malaga different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Como is a moderate lake area for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Como 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 Como, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

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 Como Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Malaga or Como Better for Music?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Como 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.

Como is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Como Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Como 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.

Como is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Como Better for Beaches?

Malaga and Como both offer good beaches.

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.

Como is a good option for a beach vacation. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Is Malaga or Como Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Malaga to see the historical old town. 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.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Malaga or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Como is a popular spot for hiking. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Como?

Como is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Como make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

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 Como Better for Families?

Como 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.

Como is a very kid-friendly lake area. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

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

Is Malaga or Como Better for Couples?

Como 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.

Como is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

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 Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Malaga, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Is Malaga or Como Better for Students?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Como 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.

Como is not popular with students.

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

Both Malaga and Como offer good public transit options.

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

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Malaga or Como a more walkable city?

Malaga and Como both are great 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.

Como is a very walkable destination. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Como or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Malaga or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Malaga due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Malaga. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Como. 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 Como?

Malaga is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Como 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 Como?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Malaga. This port city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Como. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Como?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful port city of Malaga. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fun destination of Como. This lake area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Como?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Como, 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 Como?

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 Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Malaga during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Malaga in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Como for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Malaga is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the summer temperatures in Malaga in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Como averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Como, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Como. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Como. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Como in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Como. Most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Como because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 19°C (67°F), and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Como during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Como receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than Como. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Como in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Como. The winter months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Como this time of year.

It's quite cold in Como in the winter. Malaga is much warmer than Como in the winter. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Como. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in January than Como. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Como in the Spring?

Both Como and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Malaga is a little warmer than Como. Typically, the spring temperatures in Malaga in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Como averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Como during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than Como. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Como and Malaga