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

Should you visit Malaga or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne. 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a vibrant, scenic, and active city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Malaga and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Lucerne?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Malaga. While Malaga is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is more popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Malaga is known for its food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Malaga is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also home to The Chapel Bridge.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Malaga different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Malaga or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Malaga or Lucerne Better for Music?

Malaga is great for its music scene. However, Lucerne is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Malaga draws a good crowd. 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.

Lucerne is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Lucerne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

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.

Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Lucerne Better for Beaches?

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

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

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the excellent old town areas in both Malaga and Lucerne.

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 Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Lucerne?

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

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 Lucerne Better for Families?

Both Malaga and Lucerne are good family-friendly destinations.

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

Lucerne is a family-friendly port city. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Malaga or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Malaga or Lucerne Better for Students?

Malaga is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Both Malaga and Lucerne 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.

Lucerne has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Malaga or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Malaga is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Lucerne?

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

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

In Malaga, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lucerne. 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 Lucerne?

In Malaga, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Lucerne 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 Lucerne?

Malaga is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. 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 Lucerne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. In Malaga, you'll find live music and food. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Lucerne. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Lucerne?

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

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 Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Lucerne. The summer months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.

In the summer, Malaga is a little warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Malaga in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Lucerne averages at about 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Lucerne. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Lucerne in the Autumn?

Both Lucerne and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 19°C (67°F), and Lucerne 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 Lucerne during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Malaga during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lucerne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lucerne can get quite cold in the winter. Malaga is much warmer than Lucerne in the winter. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Lucerne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in January than Lucerne. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Lucerne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Lucerne. Many visitors come to Malaga in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lucerne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Malaga is a little warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Malaga in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Lucerne averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Malaga