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

Should you visit Malaga or Rouen?

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 Rouen. 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.

Rouen

Rouen is a historical, charming, and compact city. 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 Rouen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Rouen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Malaga than Rouen. Malaga is bigger than Rouen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Malaga is better known for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Rouen is more popular for its museums. Malaga is more touristy than Rouen and is known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Also, Malaga is famous for The Alcazaba. Rouen is well known for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Malaga different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rouen is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Rouen offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Malaga and Rouen offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Malaga or Rouen Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Malaga just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Malaga or Rouen Better for Music?

Malaga is notable for its live music scene. However, Rouen is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Malaga. 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.

Rouen is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Rouen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Rouen Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a popular place for the beache. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Rouen Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is notable for its old town. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Rouen?

Both Malaga and Rouen are notable 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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Malaga or Rouen Better for Families?

Both Malaga and Rouen are notable family-friendly destinations.

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

Rouen is a family-friendly port city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Malaga or Rouen Better for Couples?

Rouen 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.

Rouen is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

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 Rouen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

Is Malaga or Rouen Better for Students?

Malaga is notable for students. However, Rouen is not popular with 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.

Rouen is not popular with students.

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

Rouen is a well-known place 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.

Rouen has some very good public transit options. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

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

Is Malaga or Rouen a more walkable city?

Malaga and Rouen 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.

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rouen or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Rouen?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Malaga or Rouen to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Malaga than Rouen 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 Rouen.

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

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

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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Rouen. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malaga or Rouen?

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.

Rouen 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen. 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 Rouen?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this beautiful 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Rouen. This city 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malaga and Rouen, we can see that Malaga is more expensive. And not only is Rouen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rouen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rouen 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 Malaga would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Malaga than you might in Rouen.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Rouen?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Rouen, 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen in the Summer?

Both Rouen and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Rouen for the family-friendly experiences.

Malaga is a little warmer than Rouen in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Rouen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Rouen. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Rouen during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Rouen. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Malaga or Rouen in the Autumn?

Both Rouen and Malaga during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rouen in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Malaga is much warmer than Rouen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Rouen averages at about 12°C (53°F).

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

Malaga usually gets less rain in October than Rouen. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Rouen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Rouen. Many visitors come to Malaga in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rouen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Rouen can be very cold during winter. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

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

In January, Malaga usually receives more rain than Rouen. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Malaga or Rouen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Rouen. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Rouen because of the natural beauty.

Malaga is much warmer than Rouen in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Rouen fluctuates around 9°C (48°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 Rouen. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 172 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Rouen. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rouen and Malaga