A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malaga vs. Stratford-upon-Avon for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon. 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a peaceful, park-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the food and theater.

Malaga and Stratford-upon-Avon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Malaga than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Malaga is better known for its food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, and small town charm. Malaga is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Also, Malaga is famous for The Alcazaba. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Malaga different from Stratford-upon-Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Malaga is not a theatre destination.

Stratford-upon-Avon is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Malaga is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Malaga is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Malaga has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Music?

Malaga is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Beaches?

Malaga is very good for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a very popular place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Malaga is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Malaga. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Families?

Both Malaga and Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly port city. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Couples?

Malaga and Stratford-upon-Avon both notable destinations for a couple.

Malaga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good port city for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Malaga is extremely popular for backpackers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Students?

Malaga is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon 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, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon a more walkable city?

Malaga is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable port city. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Malaga Worth Visiting? and Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stratford-upon-Avon or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

Families should spend more time in Malaga than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Malaga than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people visit Malaga for a weekend. Lots of people come for the nightlife. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the theater, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, five days is sufficent for most.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

In Malaga, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this welcoming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This port city offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Stratford-upon-Avon, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon in the Summer?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Malaga during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the summer, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 195 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Stratford-upon-Avon. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Malaga is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Malaga in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Malaga usually receives around the same amount of rain as Stratford-upon-Avon. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Stratford-upon-Avon. Most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold. In January, Malaga is generally much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 12°C (54°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets more rain in January than Stratford-upon-Avon. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Spring?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year.

Malaga is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than Stratford-upon-Avon. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Stratford-upon-Avon and Malaga