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

Should you visit Malaga or Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh. 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a charming, character-filled, and vibrant 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. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, shopping, and museums.

Malaga and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Edinburgh?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Malaga. While Malaga is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Malaga is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Edinburgh is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. 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 Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Malaga or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Malaga is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Malaga is not a theatre destination.

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

Malaga is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Malaga has a huge number of terrific 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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Malaga or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Malaga or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Edinburgh In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

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.

Is Malaga or Edinburgh Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Edinburgh Better for Beaches?

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

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Edinburgh can be explored in its historical center. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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

Is Malaga or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Malaga and Edinburgh are fantastic destinations for backpackers.

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.

A large number of backpackers visit Edinburgh, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Is Malaga or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Malaga and Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Both Malaga and Edinburgh offer notable public transit options.

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

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Malaga or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Edinburgh?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Malaga 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Malaga or Edinburgh?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Malaga. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find live music and food around the beautiful destination of Malaga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the historic port city of Malaga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh?

Malaga is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the ancient destination of Edinburgh. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Edinburgh?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Malaga is much warmer than Edinburgh in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Edinburgh. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Edinburgh. 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, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

In the autumn, Malaga is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Edinburgh in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Edinburgh. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in January than Edinburgh. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Edinburgh in the Spring?

Both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Malaga