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

Should you visit Malaga or Linz?

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 Linz. 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.

Linz

Linz is a beautiful, cultural, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Malaga and Linz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Linz?

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

How is Malaga different from Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Linz 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 Linz. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Malaga is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Malaga. 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.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Malaga or Linz Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

People head to Malaga just to party. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Malaga or Linz Better for Music?

Malaga is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Linz is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Malaga is very popular with diverse venues. 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.

Linz is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Linz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Linz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Linz Better for Beaches?

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

Linz is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

Malaga is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Linz?

Linz 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.

Linz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

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 Linz Better for Families?

Both Malaga and Linz are notable family-friendly destinations.

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

Linz is a family-friendly port city. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Malaga or Linz Better for Couples?

Linz 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.

Linz is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums 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 Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Is Malaga or Linz Better for Students?

Malaga is a well-known place for students. However, Linz is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Linz is not popular with students.

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

Both Malaga and Linz 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.

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

Is Malaga or Linz a more walkable city?

Malaga and Linz both are very good 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.

Linz is a very walkable destination. The tourist areas are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Linz or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Linz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Malaga or Linz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Malaga than Linz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 1-2 days is enough time in Linz.

Families should spend more time in Malaga than Linz. 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 Linz 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 Linz?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Linz. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malaga or Linz?

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.

Linz 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 Linz?

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 Linz. 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 Linz?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the welcoming 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 shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Linz. This town 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malaga and Linz, we can see that Malaga is more expensive. And not only is Linz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Linz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Linz 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 Linz.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Linz?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Linz. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Linz, 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 Linz?

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 Linz in the Summer?

Both Linz and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Linz because of the family-friendly experiences.

Malaga is a little warmer than Linz in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Linz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Linz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Linz during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Linz. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Malaga or Linz in the Autumn?

Both Linz and Malaga during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Linz this time of year.

In the autumn, Malaga is much warmer than Linz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Linz averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the autumn, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Linz. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in October than Linz. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Linz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Linz. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Linz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Linz. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Linz. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Linz fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Linz during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Malaga usually receives more rain than Linz. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Malaga or Linz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Linz. Many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Linz in the spring for the natural beauty.

Malaga is much warmer than Linz in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (51°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 Linz. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Linz. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Linz and Malaga