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

Should you visit Malaga or Copenhagen?

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 Copenhagen. 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.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a relaxed, beautiful, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Malaga and Copenhagen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Copenhagen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Copenhagen than Malaga. Copenhagen is bigger than Malaga, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is better known for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Malaga is more popular for its music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Malaga is more touristy than Copenhagen and is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Also, Copenhagen is famous for Tivoli Gardens.

How is Malaga different from Copenhagen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Copenhagen. There are many sights and landmarks around town including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Harbor, and The Round Tower. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of Denmark and the National Gallery of Denmark.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.

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 Copenhagen Better for Nightlife?

Both Malaga and Copenhagen are fantastic when it comes to partying.

Malaga is a world class 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.

Copenhagen is a must-see party destination. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.

Is Malaga or Copenhagen Better for Music?

Malaga is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Malaga while you're in town. 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.

Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Copenhagen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a port city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Copenhagen Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a port city with good options for the beache. However, Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Copenhagen Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the very good old town areas in both Malaga and Copenhagen.

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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Copenhagen. Indre By is the oldest part of the city and where you'll find most of the sights and attractions. This is where most visitors stay and you'll find many great restaurants and activities to enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen make it a world-class shopping destination. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.

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 Copenhagen Better for Families?

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination 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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Copenhagen is very family-friendly. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

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

Is Malaga or Copenhagen Better for Couples?

Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

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 Copenhagen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.

Is Malaga or Copenhagen Better for Students?

Malaga and Copenhagen are both very good 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.

Copenhagen is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.

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

Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

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

Is Malaga or Copenhagen a more walkable city?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen on foot. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.

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 Copenhagen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Copenhagen or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Copenhagen?

In either Malaga or Copenhagen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Malaga than Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen.

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

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

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

With live music and food around the welcoming port city of Malaga, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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 one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Copenhagen. 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 one day exploring.

A weekend in Malaga or Copenhagen?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Malaga, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen?

Malaga, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this port city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Copenhagen?

Malaga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this port city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the progressive destination of Copenhagen. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Adventure Tours to Denmark, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Malaga. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Copenhagen, 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 Copenhagen?

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 Copenhagen in the Summer?

Both Copenhagen and Malaga during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Malaga is a little warmer than Copenhagen in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Copenhagen. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Copenhagen in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Copenhagen. The autumn months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year.

In the autumn, Malaga is much warmer than Copenhagen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Copenhagen averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than Copenhagen. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Copenhagen in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Copenhagen. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Copenhagen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Copenhagen. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Copenhagen. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Copenhagen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Malaga usually gets more rain in January than Copenhagen. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Copenhagen in the Spring?

Both Copenhagen and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Copenhagen in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Malaga is much warmer than Copenhagen in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In April, Malaga usually receives around the same amount of rain as Copenhagen. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Copenhagen and Malaga