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

Should you visit Malaga or Lille?

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 Lille. 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Lille

Lille is a culinary, friendly, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Malaga and Lille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Lille?

You'll generally find more things to do in Malaga than Lille. Malaga is bigger than Lille, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Malaga is better known for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Lille is more popular for its museums, food, and shopping. Malaga is more touristy than Lille and is known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Also, Malaga is famous for The Alcazaba. Lille is well known for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

How is Malaga different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lille is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Lille offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lille 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 Lille, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

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 Lille Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Malaga is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Lille has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

Is Malaga or Lille Better for Music?

Malaga is notable for its live music scene. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Lille Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Lille Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Lille is not a beach destination.

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

Lille is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Lille Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Malaga and Lille.

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 Lille. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Lille?

Lille 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 Lille make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

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 Lille Better for Families?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Malaga or Lille Better for Couples?

Malaga and Lille both notable destinations for a couple.

Malaga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

Lille is a good port city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Malaga or Lille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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.

Lille is a good port city to visit for backpackers. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Malaga or Lille Better for Students?

Malaga and Lille are both great 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.

Lille is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

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

Lille is a well-known place 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.

Lille has some very good public transit options. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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

Is Malaga or Lille a more walkable city?

Lille 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 Lille on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

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 Lille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lille or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Lille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Malaga and Lille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Malaga than in Lille. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lille.

Families should spend more time in Malaga than Lille. 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.

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

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

In Malaga, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic 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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Lille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malaga or Lille?

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.

Lille 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 Lille?

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 Lille. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Lille?

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 food and shopping when visiting the friendly destination of Lille. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malaga and Lille, we can see that Malaga is more expensive. And not only is Lille much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lille would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lille 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 Malaga would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Malaga than you might in Lille.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Malaga Expensive? and Is Lille Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Lille?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Lille. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Lille, 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 Lille?

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 Lille in the Summer?

Both Lille and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Malaga in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lille for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Lille. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Lille during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Lille. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Malaga or Lille in the Autumn?

Both Lille and Malaga during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Lille because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Malaga is much warmer than Lille. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Lille averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the autumn, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Lille. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in October than Lille. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Lille in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Lille. The winter months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lille this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lille in the winter. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Lille. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Lille fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Lille during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Malaga or Lille in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Lille. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lille for the natural beauty.

Malaga is much warmer than Lille in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Lille fluctuates around 8°C (47°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 Lille. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Lille. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lille and Malaga