A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malaga vs. Los Angeles for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Beaches

Should you visit Malaga or Los Angeles?

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

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic, glamourous, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Malaga and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Los Angeles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Malaga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Malaga is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. Malaga is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Malaga different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Los Angeles are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Malaga or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

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

Los Angeles offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Malaga is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Both Malaga and Los Angeles are terrific 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.

Los Angeles is a must-see party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Is Malaga or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

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 Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Malaga is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Malaga is not a resort destination.

Is Malaga or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find good places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Malaga and Los Angeles.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Is Malaga or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Malaga is a good option for a beach vacation. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Is Malaga or Los Angeles Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

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.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Malaga or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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 Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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

Is Malaga or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Malaga, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is Malaga or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles is a very popular place to visit for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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 Los Angeles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Malaga and Los Angeles offer good public transit options.

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

Los Angeles has some public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Malaga or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Malaga is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Los Angeles?

Both Malaga and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Los Angeles than Malaga. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Malaga or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the welcoming port city of Malaga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Los Angeles is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Malaga or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Malaga. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This port city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the historic port city of Malaga. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Los Angeles. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Malaga. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the nightlife. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Los Angeles is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malaga and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Malaga much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Malaga is in Europe and Los Angeles is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Malaga. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Malaga during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

In the summer, Malaga is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Malaga in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Malaga usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Los Angeles. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Malaga is generally around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 19°C (67°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In October, Malaga usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Los Angeles. Many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Malaga is around the same temperature as Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Malaga usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Los Angeles. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Malaga in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Malaga is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Malaga in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

In April, Malaga usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Malaga