A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malaga vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Malaga and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Malaga. Although Malaga and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Malaga has more sights and attractions for tourists. Malaga is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Malaga is famous for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Alcazaba.

How is Malaga different from Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Plitvice Lakes National Park and Malaga. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is the Food Better in Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Malaga is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll find a few tourist cafes near the lakes that serve grilled meats and other simple dishes. You can also grab a snack from the food stalls that are near the entrance to the park.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Malaga is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Music?

Malaga is great for live music. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Malaga is very good for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Malaga to enjoy the beach. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is great for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular spot for hiking. There are eight different walking routes that range in length from 3 kilometers to 18 kilometers. They take between 3 and 8 hours and are well marked.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Malaga is very good for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Malaga. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. It's a fun place to explore with kids, but if you're traveling with young ones, keep a close eye on them. Also take note that it's not stroller-friendly and make sure that you arrive early to avoid the crowds.

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

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a natural wonder that is beautiful and romantic to explore as a couple. It can get crowded, as it's a top tourist destination is Croatia, so make sure you arrive early to avoid the peak times.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Malaga is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

Malaga is very popular with students. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Malaga is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Malaga offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.

Public transit is generally limited in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are several bus stops near the park but the bus service is infrequent and can involve long trips.

Is Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Plitvice Lakes National Park on foot. The park is well organized into several walking routes that can be explored in a few hours.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Malaga Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Malaga than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Malaga than Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Malaga, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Malaga is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Your budget might influence how long you stay. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Malaga, you'll find live music and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Malaga, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Visiting the old town is also a must. Many people spend one week here.This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the scenic destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Malaga and Plitvice Lakes National Park, 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 25°C (77°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Plitvice Lakes National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Malaga in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Malaga is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Malaga during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Malaga is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Malaga in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Plitvice Lakes National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In April, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 16°C (60°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Malaga