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

Should you visit Malaga or Dijon?

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 Dijon. 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 friendly, welcoming, and historic port city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Dijon

Dijon is a culinary, relaxing, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Malaga and Dijon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Malaga or Dijon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Malaga than Dijon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Malaga is very popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Dijon attracts visitors for its museums, food, and big city activities. Malaga is famous for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Alcazaba. Dijon is famous for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards.

How is Malaga different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Malaga
Dijon

Dijon 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 Dijon. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Malaga
Dijon

Dijon 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 Dijon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

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 Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Malaga
Dijon

Malaga is terrific for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Malaga or Dijon Better for Music?

Malaga
Dijon

Malaga is notable for live music. However, Dijon is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Malaga. 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.

Dijon is not a live music destination.


Is Malaga or Dijon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga
Dijon

Malaga is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Dijon Better for Beaches?

Malaga
Dijon

Malaga is a popular place for its beaches. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Dijon Better for its Old Town?

Malaga
Dijon

Malaga is notable for its historic old town. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Dijon?

Malaga
Dijon

Both Malaga and Dijon are nice shopping destinations.

Malaga offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Dijon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Malaga or Dijon Better for Families?

Malaga
Dijon

Both Malaga and Dijon are nice family-friendly destinations.

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

Dijon is a family-friendly port city. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Malaga or Dijon Better for Couples?

Malaga
Dijon

Dijon 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.

Dijon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

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 Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga
Dijon

Malaga is terrific for backpackers. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Malaga is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Dijon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Malaga or Dijon Better for Students?

Malaga
Dijon

Malaga is notable for students. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

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

Malaga
Dijon

Both Malaga and Dijon offer nice public transit options.

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

Dijon has some public transit options. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.


Is Malaga or Dijon a more walkable city?

Malaga
Dijon

Malaga is notable for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Malaga is very walkable. It has a very compact and walkable historic center with most of the tourist attractions easily accessible on foot.

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Malaga or Dijon. 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 Dijon.

Families should spend more time in Malaga than Dijon. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malaga than Dijon 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 Dijon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Malaga 3-7 
    Dijon 2-4

One day in Malaga or Dijon?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the live music and food that this welcoming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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

A weekend in Malaga or Dijon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Dijon 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 Dijon?

Malaga is a fun place to experience. In Malaga, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dijon. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Dijon?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this beautiful destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of Dijon. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Dijon 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 Dijon is €153. 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 Dijon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Malaga 75
    Dijon 80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Malaga 150
    Dijon 160
Compare Hotels in Malaga and Dijon

Looking for a hotel in Malaga or Dijon? 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 Dijon


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 Dijon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Dijon 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malaga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malaga:

  • Malaga hotels to Malaga Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $19
  • Malaga Port to Malaga Airport (AGP) - Departure Private Transfer: $19
  • Private Transfer from Malaga hotels to Malaga Cruise Port: $19
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Cruise Port to Málaga Airport (AGP): $19
  • Private Transfer from Málaga Airport (AGP) to Malaga Cruise Port: $19
  • Malaga Cruise Port to Malaga Hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $19
  • Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) to Malaga Port - Arrival private Transfer: $19
  • Private Transfer from Malaga City Center to Malaga Airport (AGP): $31
  • Private Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport (AGP): $33
  • Private One Way Airport Transfer (Malaga Airport To/From Malaga): $34
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Malaga - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Malaga to Malaga Airport (AGP) - Departure Private Transfer: $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dijon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dijon:

  • 2 Hour Private Tour of Dijon - with Hotel Transfer: $427

Is it cheaper to fly into Malaga or Dijon?

Prices for flights to both Dijon 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
    Dijon 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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Dijon 25
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:

  • Skip the Line: Picasso's Birthplace Museum Entrance Ticket: $4.36
  • Guided Walking Tour of the Old Town of Frigiliana: $5.45
  • Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Malaga: $7.08
  • Ronda Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.95
  • Malaga Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Skip the Line: Centre Pompidou in Malaga Ticket: $9.82
  • Museo Carmen Thyssen de Malaga Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Skip the Line: Malaga Automobile and Fashion Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Guided tour in Ronda: $13
  • Andalucia's City Of Dreams: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Ronda: $15
  • Essential Malaga City Tour: $16
  • Tour around the Central Market of Malaga: $16

Tours and Activities in Dijon

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dijon are as follows:

  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour through the City: $5.99
  • More than just Mustard: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Dijon: $5.99
  • Dijon : City Walking Tour with Audio Guide (Office Tourisme): $7.49
  • City Tour with a French-speaking Guide: $13
  • Dijon City Tour : Highlights Tour with Gourmet Break: $60
  • Bike tour and Tastings in the Vineyards of Burgundy: $71
  • Half Day Tour of the Cote de Nuits Vineyards from Dijon: $97
  • Small-Group Full-Day Tour of Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune Vineyards and Beaune Historical District: $146
  • DIJON : Private Walking Tour: $176
  • Private city tour - Dijon the essential - 2h: $235
  • E-bike Burgundy day tour, tastings & lunch from Beaune or Dijon: $240
  • Private guided tour - Dijon - 2h: $240

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Malaga 22
    Dijon 29

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 Dijon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dijon:

  • ✨ Masterclass Chardonnay - Wine tasting in Dijon : $37
  • Chardonnay Masterclass - Wine tasting in Dijon: $38
  • Pinot Noir Masterclass - Wine tasting in Dijon: $38
  • Cheese and Burgundy Wine Tasting Workshop: $48
  • Wine Tasting Workshop with Tastings: $48
  • La Cave du Palais Burgundy Wine Tasting Experience: $59
  • Bike Tour with Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting: $66
  • Small-Group Burgundy Tour with Wine Tastings from Dijon: $74
  • Small group Burgundy tour of Beaune with Wine Tasting from Dijon: $95


When comparing the travel costs between Malaga and Dijon, we can see that Dijon 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 Dijon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Malaga or Dijon?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Dijon. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Dijon, 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 Dijon?

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 Dijon in the Summer?

Both Dijon and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dijon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 25°C (77°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Dijon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Dijon. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Malaga 25°C (77°F) 
    Dijon 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Dijon in the Autumn?

Both Dijon and Malaga during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dijon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Malaga is a little warmer than Dijon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Dijon fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the autumn, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Dijon. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Malaga 19°C (67°F) 
    Dijon 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Dijon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Dijon. Many visitors come to Malaga in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dijon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dijon can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Malaga is much warmer than Dijon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Malaga in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Dijon averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Malaga usually receives more rain than Dijon. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Malaga 12°C (54°F) 
    Dijon 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Dijon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Dijon. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Dijon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 16°C (60°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the spring, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Dijon. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Malaga 16°C (60°F) 
    Dijon 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Dijon and Malaga

Malaga Dijon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 5°C (41°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 4°C (39°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)