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

Should you visit Malaga or Ljubljana?

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 Ljubljana. 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 beautiful, friendly, and welcoming port city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a authentic, historic, and charming capital 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 Ljubljana: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Ljubljana?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Malaga than Ljubljana. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Malaga is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Ljubljana attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, and big city activities. Malaga is more touristy than Ljubljana and is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Alcazaba. Ljubljana is famous for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Malaga different from Ljubljana?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ljubljana is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Ljubljana offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Because the city is so compact, it's easy to see the notable landmarks with an easy walk. Famous landmarks include Ljubljana Castle, the Dragon Bridge, and the Franciscan Church.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Malaga is a great port city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Ljubljana. The city is surrounded by nature, so there's easy access to wild fruits and vegetables. It also has a lot of locally made honey and traditional, family run restaurants. Popular dishes include local sausage, pražen krompir (a potato side dish) and Slovenian style fried chicken.

Is Malaga or Ljubljana Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is renowned for nightlife. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for nightlife and partying.

Malaga is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Ljubljana. Given its small size, there are a surprising number of clubs and bars in town. The city has a vibrant energy in the evening, and it's easy to travel from venue to venue on foot.

Is Malaga or Ljubljana Better for Music?

Malaga is a great port city for live music. However, Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

Malaga has a thriving music scene. 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.

Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Ljubljana Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ljubljana 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.

Ljubljana is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Ljubljana Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Ljubljana 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.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Ljubljana Better for its Old Town?

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

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 Ljubljana. The old town is compact with wondering cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. At the heart of the city is Prešernov trg Square, which is where you'll find several notable buildings and nearby Central Market.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Ljubljana?

Ljubljana 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.

Ljubljana is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has several shopping streets where you can find local and international fashion brands. Many people enjoy shopping for crystal and glass products in the city. Also check out the Central Market which has fresh local food products.

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 Ljubljana Better for Families?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Malaga offers lots of family activities. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

Ljubljana is not the most family-friendly destination. The city has several good museums including the House of Experiments, which is only open on weekends. There are parks you can explore and it's fun to take the funicular to the castle. You can also take a boat ride which is fun for the whole family.

Is Malaga or Ljubljana Better for Couples?

Malaga and Ljubljana both nice 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.

Ljubljana is a good port city for couples to visit. It's one of the more under-rated cities in Europe, but there are a number of romantic activities that you can enjoy here. Explore the old town, wander through the botanical gardens, or take a boat ride along the river. All make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Malaga or Ljubljana Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Malaga. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Ljubljana is a great port city to visit for backpackers. Although its not as popular as many of the more well known cities, this is an affordable option that is great for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Malaga or Ljubljana Better for Students?

Malaga is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for students.

Malaga is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

Ljubljana is a good port city to visit for students. If you're looking for a unique study abroad opportunity, the University of Ljubljana offers an excellent academic experience in a a lively small city with easy access to nature.

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

Both Malaga and Ljubljana 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.

Ljubljana has some public transit options. There is a city bus system.

Is Malaga or Ljubljana a more walkable city?

Malaga and Ljubljana both are great 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.

Ljubljana is a very walkable destination. It is compact and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ljubljana or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Ljubljana?

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

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

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

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ljubljana. 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 Ljubljana?

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.

Ljubljana 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 Ljubljana?

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 Ljubljana. 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 Ljubljana?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Ljubljana. This capital 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 Ljubljana, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Ljubljana?

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

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 Ljubljana in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Ljubljana. Many visitors come to Malaga in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Ljubljana for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 25°C (77°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 260 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Ljubljana. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Ljubljana in the Autumn?

Both Ljubljana and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Malaga is a little warmer than Ljubljana in the autumn. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Ljubljana fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Ljubljana in the Winter?

Both Ljubljana and Malaga during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ljubljana in the winter. In the winter, Malaga is much warmer than Ljubljana. Typically, the winter temperatures in Malaga in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Ljubljana averages at about 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Ljubljana. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ljubljana receives 47 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Ljubljana. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Ljubljana in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Ljubljana. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ljubljana for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Ljubljana. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 16°C (60°F), and Ljubljana fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Ljubljana during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Ljubljana receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than Ljubljana. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ljubljana receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ljubljana and Malaga