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

Should you visit Malaga or Valletta?

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 Valletta. 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.

Valletta

Valletta is a historic, charming, and cultural town. 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 Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malaga or Valletta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Malaga. Although Malaga and Valletta are both popular with visitors, Malaga has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Valletta is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping. Malaga is more touristy than Valletta 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. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Malaga different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Valletta are among the most recognizable in the world. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Valletta 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 Valletta, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

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 Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta 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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Malaga or Valletta Better for Music?

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

Valletta is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Valletta Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a port city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Malaga or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a port city with good options for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

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.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Is Malaga or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Valletta 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 Valletta can be explored in its historical center. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

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 Valletta?

Valletta 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.

Valletta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

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 Valletta Better for Families?

Both Malaga and Valletta are good family-friendly destinations.

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

Valletta is a family-friendly port city. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Malaga or Valletta Better for Couples?

Valletta 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.

Valletta is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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 Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Malaga or Valletta Better for Students?

Malaga is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta is not popular with students.

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.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Both Malaga and Valletta 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.

Valletta has some public transit options. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Malaga or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta 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 Valletta on foot. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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 Valletta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Valletta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Malaga and Valletta. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Malaga than in Valletta. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Malaga, and 1-3 days is enough time in Valletta.

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

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

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

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Valletta. 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 Valletta?

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.

Valletta 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 Valletta?

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 Valletta. 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 Valletta?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Valletta. This town 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 Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Malaga or Valletta?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Valletta, 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 Valletta?

Malaga has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Valletta in the Summer?

Both Valletta and Malaga during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

In the summer, Malaga is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Malaga in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Valletta averages at about 26°C (79°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the summer, Malaga often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in July than Valletta. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Valletta in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Valletta. The autumn months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Malaga is generally around the same temperature as Valletta. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 19°C (67°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta 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 Valletta during autumn. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Malaga usually receives less rain than Valletta. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Malaga or Valletta in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Valletta. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

Malaga is around the same temperature as Valletta in the winter. The daily temperature in Malaga averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Malaga often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in January than Valletta. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Malaga or Valletta in the Spring?

Both Valletta and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Malaga is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Malaga in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Valletta averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. Malaga usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during spring. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Malaga usually receives more rain than Valletta. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Malaga