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

Should you visit Malaga or Lyon?

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 Lyon. 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.

Lyon

Lyon is a beautiful, cultural, and quaint city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Malaga and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Lyon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lyon than Malaga, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lyon is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Malaga is well known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Malaga different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lyon are among the most recognizable in the world. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lyon 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 Lyon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is an amazing port city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Malaga has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Lyon has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Is Malaga or Lyon Better for Music?

Malaga is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Lyon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Lyon Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Lyon can be explored in its historical center. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Lyon?

Lyon 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.

Lyon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

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 Lyon Better for Families?

Lyon is a well-known place 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.

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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

Is Malaga or Lyon Better for Couples?

Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

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 Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is an amazing port city to visit for backpackers. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 budget travelers and backpackers visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Malaga or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

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

Lyon 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.

Lyon has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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

Is Malaga or Lyon a more walkable city?

Malaga and Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Lyon?

In either Malaga or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Malaga than Lyon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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

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

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.

Lyon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

A weekend in Malaga or Lyon?

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.

Lyon 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 Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the welcoming 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 Lyon. 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.

A week in Malaga or Lyon?

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 authentic big city of Lyon. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Malaga and Lyon, we can see that Malaga is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Lyon?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Lyon, 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 Lyon?

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 Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Malaga in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Malaga is a little warmer than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Lyon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Lyon. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Malaga or Lyon in the Autumn?

Both Lyon and Malaga during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Lyon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Malaga is a little warmer than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the autumn, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in October than Lyon. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Lyon. 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 Lyon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lyon in the winter. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Malaga usually receives more rain than Lyon. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Malaga or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Lyon. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Malaga is a little warmer than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°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 Lyon. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Malaga