A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malaga vs. San Remo for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Malaga or San Remo?

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 San Remo. 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

San Remo

San Remo is a historic, relaxing, and beautiful coastal 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 beaches.

Malaga and San Remo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or San Remo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Malaga than San Remo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, and scuba diving & snorkeling, while San Remo is known for its beaches. Malaga is more touristy than San Remo and is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also home to The Alcazaba. San Remo is popular for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is Malaga different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Malaga and San Remo 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.

San Remo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is Malaga or San Remo Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Malaga is a must-see 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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is Malaga or San Remo Better for Music?

Malaga is a very popular place for its music scene. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or San Remo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or San Remo Better for Beaches?

San Remo is a well-known place for the beache. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

Many people visit San Remo for it's beautiful beaches. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

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.

Is Malaga or San Remo Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the superb old town areas in both Malaga and San Remo.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or San Remo?

Both Malaga and San Remo are good 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.

San Remo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Malaga or San Remo Better for Families?

San Remo 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.

San Remo is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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

Is Malaga or San Remo Better for Couples?

San Remo 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.

San Remo is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

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 San Remo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Malaga, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is Malaga or San Remo Better for Students?

Malaga is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not popular with students.

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

Both Malaga and San Remo offer good public transit options.

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

San Remo has some public transit options. There are local buses around town.

Is Malaga or San Remo a more walkable city?

Malaga and San Remo 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.

San Remo is a very walkable destination. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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

Should I spend more time in San Remo or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or San Remo?

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

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

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

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

The beautiful port city of Malaga offers shopping and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of San Remo. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malaga or San Remo?

Malaga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

San Remo 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 San Remo?

Malaga is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Remo. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 San Remo?

Malaga is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer. This port city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of San Remo. This coastal 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or San Remo?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo in the Summer?

Both San Remo and Malaga during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 San Remo for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Malaga is around the same temperature as San Remo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Malaga in July average around 25°C (77°F), and San Remo averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In San Remo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than San Remo. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than San Remo. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or San Remo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and San Remo. Many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to San Remo in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Malaga is generally a little warmer than San Remo. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 19°C (67°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

San Remo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than San Remo. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or San Remo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Malaga as well as San Remo. Many visitors come to Malaga in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Malaga is a little warmer than San Remo in the winter. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and San Remo fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than San Remo. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as San Remo. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or San Remo in the Spring?

Both San Remo and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to San Remo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Malaga is a little warmer than San Remo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Malaga in April average around 16°C (60°F), and San Remo averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than San Remo. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Remo and Malaga