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

Should you visit Malaga or Stockholm?

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 Stockholm. 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 historic, beautiful, and friendly 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.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a coastal, safe, and expensive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Malaga and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Stockholm?

You'll generally find more things to do in Stockholm than Malaga. Stockholm is bigger than Malaga, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Stockholm is better known for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Malaga is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Malaga is well known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Stockholm is well known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. Also, Stockholm is famous for Gamla Stan (the old town).

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Malaga different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stockholm 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 Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Malaga is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Malaga or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

Many people head to Stockholm for the nightlife scene. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Malaga or Stockholm Better for Music?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

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 Stockholm Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a port city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Stockholm is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Stockholm is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Stockholm Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a port city with good options for the beache. However, Stockholm is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Malaga. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Stockholm is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Stockholm can be explored in its historical center. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Stockholm?

Stockholm is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm 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, Stockholm is very family-friendly. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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

Is Malaga or Stockholm Better for Couples?

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Malaga or Stockholm Better for Students?

Malaga is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Malaga. 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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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

Is Malaga or Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Stockholm?

Both Malaga and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Stockholm has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Stockholm than Malaga. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 2-7 days is enough time in Stockholm.

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

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

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

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Malaga. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

A weekend in Malaga or Stockholm?

You'll find live music and food around the friendly destination of Malaga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Stockholm?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the historic port city of Malaga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. Don't miss the live music, 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.

A week in Malaga or Stockholm?

Malaga is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Stockholm?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Malaga. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Stockholm. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Malaga is a little warmer than Stockholm in the summer. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Stockholm this time of the year. In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Stockholm. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Malaga or Stockholm in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Stockholm. The autumn months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year.

In the autumn, Malaga is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Stockholm averages at about 8°C (46°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the autumn, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 99 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in October than Stockholm. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Stockholm in the Winter?

Both Stockholm and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Stockholm. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Malaga usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Malaga or Stockholm in the Spring?

Both Stockholm and Malaga during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Stockholm in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Malaga is much warmer than Stockholm in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the spring, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in April than Stockholm. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Malaga