A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malaga vs. Oxford for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Malaga or Oxford?

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

Oxford

Oxford is a scholarly, collegiate, and beautiful college town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Malaga and Oxford: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Oxford?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Malaga than Oxford. 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 historical sights, while Oxford attracts visitors for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Malaga is more touristy than Oxford 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. Oxford is famous for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Malaga different from Oxford?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oxford 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 Oxford. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Malaga is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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 Oxford. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Malaga or Oxford Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is very popular for nightlife. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Oxford is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

Is Malaga or Oxford Better for Music?

Malaga is a very popular place for live music. However, Oxford is not a live music destination.

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.

Oxford is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Oxford Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Oxford is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Oxford Better for Beaches?

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

Oxford is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Oxford Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Malaga to see the historical old town. 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.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Oxford?

Both Malaga and Oxford are nice shopping destinations.

Malaga offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Oxford has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Is Malaga or Oxford Better for Families?

Both Malaga and Oxford are nice family-friendly destinations.

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

Oxford is a family-friendly port city. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Is Malaga or Oxford Better for Couples?

Oxford 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.

Oxford is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

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 Oxford Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options 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.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Malaga or Oxford Better for Students?

Oxford 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.

Oxford is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

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

Both Malaga and Oxford 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.

Oxford has some public transit options. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

Is Malaga or Oxford a more walkable city?

Malaga and Oxford 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.

Oxford is a very walkable destination. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

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

Should I spend more time in Oxford or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Oxford?

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

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

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.

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malaga or Oxford?

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.

Oxford 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 Oxford?

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 Oxford. 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 Oxford?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the friendly 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.

Oxford is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This college town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

When comparing the travel costs between Malaga and Oxford, we can see that Oxford 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 Oxford Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Oxford?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Oxford, 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 Oxford?

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 Oxford in the Summer?

Both Oxford and Malaga during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 25°C (77°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 195 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Malaga or Oxford in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Oxford. 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 Oxford because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Malaga is much warmer than Oxford in the autumn. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Oxford fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Malaga or Oxford in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Oxford. 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 Oxford this time of year.

It's quite cold in Oxford in the winter. In the winter, Malaga is much warmer than Oxford. Typically, the winter temperatures in Malaga in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Oxford averages at about 3°C (38°F).

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

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

Should I visit Malaga or Oxford in the Spring?

Both Oxford and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Malaga is generally much warmer than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 16°C (60°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Oxford and Malaga