A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malaga vs. London for Nightlife, Music, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Malaga or London?

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 London. 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

London

London is a international, historic, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Malaga and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or London?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London than Malaga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. London is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Malaga is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. London is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Malaga is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

Big Ben

How is Malaga different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in London are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Malaga or London Better for Theater?

London is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Malaga is not a theatre destination.

London is considered to be a world-class theater destination. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Malaga is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Malaga and London offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

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.

London has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is Malaga or London Better for Nightlife?

Both Malaga and London are first-rate when it comes to partying.

Malaga is a world class 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.

London is a must-see party destination. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

Is Malaga or London Better for Music?

London 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 London Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

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 London Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

London is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or London Better for Beaches?

Malaga is very good for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Malaga to enjoy the beach. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

London is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or London Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a great port city for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or London?

London 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 London make it a world-class shopping destination. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

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 London Better for Christmas?

London is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Malaga does not offer Christmas activities.

London is a world class destination during the Christmas season. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Malaga does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Malaga or London Better for Christmas Markets?

London is a must-visit destination for its Christmas markets. However, Malaga does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make London very popular during this season. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Malaga does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Malaga or London Better for Families?

London is a must-visit destination 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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, London is very family-friendly. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

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

Is Malaga or London Better for Couples?

London is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

London is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

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 London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Malaga and London are first-rate 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 London, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Is Malaga or London Better for Students?

London is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

London is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

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.

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

London is a must-visit destination 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.

London has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options 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 London a more walkable city?

London 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 London on foot. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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 London Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in London or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or London?

Both Malaga and London have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, London has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in London than Malaga. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in London 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 London.

One day in Malaga or London?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Malaga. 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.

London is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Malaga or London?

Malaga is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

London is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Malaga or London?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 London?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic destination of Malaga. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

London is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Malaga. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and London, 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 London?

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 London in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Malaga is a little warmer than London. Typically, the summer temperatures in Malaga in July average around 25°C (77°F), and London averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than London. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 195 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than London. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or London in the Autumn?

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

In October, Malaga is generally much warmer than London. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 19°C (67°F), and London fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than London during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Malaga usually receives around the same amount of rain as London. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or London in the Winter?

Both London and Malaga during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to London because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in London can be very cold. Malaga is much warmer than London in the winter. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and London fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than London. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 52 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in January than London. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or London in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and London. The spring months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to London this time of year.

In the spring, Malaga is much warmer than London. Typically, the spring temperatures in Malaga in April average around 16°C (60°F), and London averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than London during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than London. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for London and Malaga