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

Should you visit Malaga or Paris?

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

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Malaga and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Malaga. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Malaga attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Malaga is famous for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Malaga different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Malaga or Paris Better for Theater?

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

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Malaga is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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 Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

Both Malaga and Paris are amazing 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.

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Is Malaga or Paris Better for Music?

Paris 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 Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

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 Paris Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Malaga has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Paris Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a popular place for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is great for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Paris?

Paris 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 Paris make it a world-class shopping destination. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

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

Paris is a world class destination during the Christmas season. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Malaga does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Malaga or Paris Better for Families?

Paris 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, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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

Is Malaga or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris 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.

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Malaga and Paris are amazing 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 Paris, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Is Malaga or Paris Better for Students?

Paris 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.

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

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

Paris 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.

Paris has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use 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 Paris a more walkable city?

Malaga and Paris both are superb 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.

Paris is a very walkable destination. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Paris?

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

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

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

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

One day in Malaga or Paris?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the live music and food that this friendly destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Paris 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris 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 Paris?

Malaga is a fun place to experience. In Malaga, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

In Malaga, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this welcoming destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Paris 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Paris?

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

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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Paris. The beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 25°C (77°F), and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

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

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Paris. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Paris in the Autumn?

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

Malaga is a little warmer than Paris in the autumn. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Paris 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 Paris during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Malaga usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Malaga during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Malaga in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Malaga is much warmer than Paris. Typically, the winter temperatures in Malaga in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Paris averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Paris. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Paris in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Paris. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 16°C (60°F), and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Paris during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than Paris. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Malaga