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

Should you visit Malaga or Trogir?

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 Trogir. 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.

Trogir

Trogir is a quaint, authentic, and historic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Malaga and Trogir: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling


Is there more to do in Malaga or Trogir?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Malaga. Although Malaga and Trogir are popular destinations, Malaga has more sights and attractions for tourists. Malaga is very popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Trogir attracts visitors for its museums, food, and small town charm. Malaga is more touristy than Trogir and is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Alcazaba. Trogir is famous for its historic buildings and its local cuisine.

How is Malaga different from Trogir?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Malaga
Trogir

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

Trogir offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The old town has some fascinating historic sights such as the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the Clock Tower and the city gates.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Malaga
Trogir

Trogir is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Trogir, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For such a small place there's a surprising number of amazing restaurants. You won't find touristy restaurants here. Instead, locals and tourists intermingle, enjoying the same amazing dishes. There's also a number of fine dining restaurants that are affordable and high quality.

Malaga has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Malaga or Trogir Better for Nightlife?

Malaga
Trogir

Malaga is terrific for nightlife. Also, Trogir is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Trogir. You'll find bars and a few discos around town that keep things fun after the sun sets.

Is Malaga or Trogir Better for Music?

Malaga
Trogir

Malaga is great for live music. However, Trogir 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.

Trogir is not a live music destination.


Is Malaga or Trogir Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga
Trogir

Malaga is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Trogir is not a good destination for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

Snorkeling is an option in Trogir. There are less snorkeling trips leaving from here than from some of the larger nearby tourist destinations.

Is Malaga or Trogir Better for Beaches?

Malaga
Trogir

Malaga and Trogir both offer nice beaches.

Malaga offers a nice beach destination. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Trogir is a good option for a beach vacation. You'll find some good beaches in the vicinity of town. A favorite is Pantan Beach, which is about 1.5 kilometers from town and accessible by bus. There are also beaches on Ciovo Island and the Drvenik Islands.

Is Malaga or Trogir Better for its Old Town?

Malaga
Trogir

Malaga is great for its historic old town. Also, Trogir is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its 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.

Many people head to Trogir to see the old town. The medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it sits on an island that is connected to the mainland by bridge.


Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Trogir?

Malaga
Trogir

Malaga is very good for shopping. However, Trogir is not a good destination for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Trogir has some nice offerings. There are shops and shopping centers in the area that sell the standard brands.

Is Malaga or Trogir Better for Families?

Malaga
Trogir

Both Malaga and Trogir are nice family-friendly destinations.

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

Trogir is a family-friendly port city. There are dessert bakeries around town that the kids will love. You'll also find historic sights and a castle. In the surrounding area there's kayaking and other water activities.

Is Malaga or Trogir Better for Couples?

Malaga
Trogir

Trogir 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.

Trogir is a very popular place to visit for couples. This seaside town is filled with historic sights and great restaurants. Dessert lovers will appreciate the pastry shops and for those willing to head out of town, there are a number of water activities to enjoy.

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 Trogir Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga
Trogir

Malaga is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trogir is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Trogir is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of affordable hostels in town. You'll find enough backpackers around town to keep things interesting and fun.

Is Malaga or Trogir Better for Students?

Malaga
Trogir

Malaga is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Trogir 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.

Trogir is not popular with students.

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

Malaga
Trogir

Both Malaga and Trogir offer nice public transit options.

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

Trogir has some public transit options. There's a bus station in town that provides regional access to nearby towns.


Is Malaga or Trogir a more walkable city?

Malaga
Trogir

Malaga and Trogir both are high quality 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.

Trogir is a very walkable destination. If you stay in the pedestrian-only old town, its easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Trogir or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Trogir?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malaga than Trogir 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.


  • How many days in Malaga or Trogir? Ideal Length of Stay
    Malaga 3-7 
    Trogir 1-2

One day in Malaga or Trogir?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Malaga. 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.

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

A weekend in Malaga or Trogir?

Malaga is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Trogir is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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 Trogir?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. Don't miss the nightlife, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trogir. Don't miss the food, 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 Trogir?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the beautiful destination of Malaga. This port 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic destination of Trogir. 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 10-Day Tours in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Trogir or Malaga?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Malaga is €140, while the average daily cost in Trogir is €103. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Malaga and Trogir in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Malaga 75
    Trogir 57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Malaga 150
    Trogir 114
Compare Hotels in Malaga and Trogir

Looking for a hotel in Malaga or Trogir? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Malaga


Hotels in Trogir


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Malaga Hotel Prices and Trogir Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Trogir 15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malaga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malaga:

  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Córdoba: $295
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Ubrique: $291
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (Agp) to Granada City: $289
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Ferreirola: $267
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Bubión: $266
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Adra: $262
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Cortes de la Frontera: $247
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Lanjarón: $242
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Granada: $242
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Órgiva: $232
  • Private Transfer from/to Seville to/from Malaga & Stop Alhambra: $230
  • Private Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Gaucín: $223

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Trogir

Also for Trogir, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Split Airport (SPU) to Šibenik hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer from Okrug Gornji (Island Ciovo) to Split Airport (SPU): $40
  • Private Transfer from Slatine (Island Ciovo) to Split Airport (SPU): $40
  • Private Transfer from Marina Aci Trogir to Split Airport (SPU): $40
  • Airport Transfer: $44
  • Private Transfer from Split Croatia Airport to Hotel : $60
  • Split airport to Split Private transfer to 8 pax (Door to Door any location): $71
  • Private one way transfer from Trogir to Split: $83
  • One Way Private Transfer from Split to Trogir: $83
  • Split Airport (SPU) to Zadar hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • transfer from Trogir to Split/Split airport: $348

Is it cheaper to fly into Malaga or Trogir?

Prices for flights to both Trogir and Malaga change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Malaga 35
    Trogir 33
Typical Food Prices in Malaga

Some typical examples of dining costs in Malaga are as follows:


  • Dinner for 2
    30
  • Dinner for 2
    44
  • Breakfast for 2
    8.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Malaga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Malaga.

  • Dinner and Show at Alegría Flamenco & Restaurant in Malaga: $65
  • Malaga Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $86
  • Malaga Tapas Cooking Class: $89
  • Sardines On Skewers Show Cooking in Malaga beach: $147

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Trogir 24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Malaga

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Malaga are as follows:


  • Entrance to Castillos
    7.10
  • Concert
    31

Tours and Activities in Malaga

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Malaga are as follows:

  • Half-Day Luxury Motor Yacht Cruise in Granada: $153
  • Private Tour of Ronda and Setenil de Las Bodegas: $240
  • Sealife Benalmadena Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Winery and Olive Mill Guided and Tasting Tour with Tapas: $120
  • 1 Hour Buggy Safari Experience in the Mountains of Mijas with Guide: $87
  • 1.5-Hour Roman Theater and Alcazaba Castle Walking Tour: $16
  • 1h buggy tour: $115
  • 2 Hour Family Buggy Tour, Off-Road Adventure in Mijas: $164
  • 2 Hour Quad/ATV Tour Off-Road Adventure in Mijas: $142
  • 2 Hours Buggy Safari Experience in the Mountains of Mijas with Guide: $125
  • 2 Hours Kayak Tour in Cerro Gordo Natural Park, La Herradura: $28
  • 2-Hour French Guided Walking Tour in Malaga: $20

Tours and Activities in Trogir

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Trogir.

  • Old Town Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • City Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Trogir walking tour with a local guide: $21
  • Split: Trogir Open Top Bus Trip + Free Split Walking Tour: $21
  • Nocturnal Tours Trogir & Split - Myths and Legends of Old Trogir Tour: $25
  • From Trogir, Seget & Okrug: Cetina River Rafting Tour: $32
  • Trogir 1.5-Hour City Tour: $43
  • Unique Trogir Tour with a Guide : $45
  • Magic Blue lagoon & 3 islands tour: $61
  • From Blue Lagoon Cruise with Lunch and Drinks: $62
  • 3 Islands Half day Tour From Trogir : $66
  • From 3 islands half day tour with Blue Lagoon: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Malaga 22
    Trogir 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Malaga

Also in Malaga, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Malaga Nightlife Pub Crawl Tour with Drinks and Clubs Entry: $17
  • Guided Cellar Tour and wine tasting: $35
  • Frigiliana Small-Group Hike and Wine Tasting Tour from Malaga: $60
  • Sun and Wine Route - Small group, wine tasting and lunch included: $76
  • Malaga Food Walking Tour with Tapas & Wine Tasting: $98
  • Ronda Tour & Winery Experience with Wine Tasting from Malaga: $109
  • Malaga Tapas and Wine Tour: $136

Sample the Local Flavors in Trogir

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Trogir:

  • Skradin: Wine Tasting in a local family winery: $27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Malaga and Trogir, we can see that Malaga is more expensive. And not only is Trogir much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Trogir would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Trogir 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 Trogir.

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


Which is Bigger, Malaga or Trogir?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Trogir. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Trogir, 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 Trogir?

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 Trogir in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Trogir. Many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Trogir in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Malaga is generally around the same temperature as Trogir. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 25°C (77°F), and Trogir fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Trogir. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In the summer, Malaga often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Trogir. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trogir receives 345 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Trogir. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Trogir receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Malaga 25°C (77°F) 
    Trogir 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Trogir in the Autumn?

Both Trogir 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 Trogir for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

Malaga is around the same temperature as Trogir in the autumn. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Trogir fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Trogir. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trogir during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Trogir receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than Trogir. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Trogir receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Malaga 19°C (67°F) 
    Trogir 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Trogir in the Winter?

Both Trogir 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 Trogir because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Malaga is a little warmer than Trogir. Typically, the winter temperatures in Malaga in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Trogir averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Trogir. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trogir receives 128 hours of full sun.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Malaga 12°C (54°F) 
    Trogir 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Trogir in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Trogir. The spring months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Trogir this time of year.

In April, Malaga is generally around the same temperature as Trogir. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 16°C (60°F), and Trogir fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Trogir this time of the year. In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Trogir during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Trogir receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives less rain than Trogir. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Trogir receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Malaga 16°C (60°F) 
    Trogir 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Trogir and Malaga

Malaga Trogir
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)