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

Should you visit Malaga or Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia. 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a scenic, traditional, and understated seaside town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Malaga and Ventimiglia: 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 beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Malaga or Ventimiglia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Malaga. Although Malaga and Ventimiglia are both popular with visitors, Malaga has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, and scuba diving & snorkeling, while Ventimiglia is known for its shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Malaga is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. It is also home to The Alcazaba. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Malaga different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Both Malaga and Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.


Is Malaga or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Malaga is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

People head to Malaga just to party. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Malaga or Ventimiglia Better for Music?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Malaga is a great destination for its music scene. However, Ventimiglia is not a live music destination.

Malaga has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. 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.

Ventimiglia is not a live music destination.

Is Malaga or Ventimiglia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

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

Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Malaga or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Malaga and Ventimiglia both offer good 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.

Ventimiglia is a good option for a beach vacation. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Is Malaga or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

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

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 Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Malaga or Ventimiglia?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Both Malaga and Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is a family-friendly port city. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Malaga or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is a very popular place to visit for couples. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Malaga is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Malaga is a very popular port city to visit for backpackers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Malaga or Ventimiglia Better for Students?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Malaga is a great destination for students. However, Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

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

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Both Malaga and Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia has some public transit options. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Malaga or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Malaga
Ventimiglia

Malaga and Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Malaga?

How long in Malaga or Ventimiglia?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malaga than Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Malaga 3-7 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Malaga or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the friendly port city of Malaga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Malaga. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This port city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the beautiful port city of Malaga. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Malaga. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the nightlife. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia is €121. 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 Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Malaga 75
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Malaga 150
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Malaga and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Malaga or Ventimiglia? 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 Ventimiglia


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 Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Ventimiglia 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malaga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malaga:

  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Marbella - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga Airport AGP to Malaga by Business Car: $51
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga Airport AGP to Malaga by Luxury Van: $57
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport AGP by Business Car: $51
  • Arrival Transfer: Malaga Airport AGP to Malaga by Business Car: $51
  • Arrival Transfer: Malaga Airport AGP to Malaga by Luxury Van: $57
  • Departure Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport AGP by Business Car: $51
  • Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) to Malaga Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $37
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Granada - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Malaga - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Marbella - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Malaga Airport (Costa del Sol) Private Departure Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Malaga or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia 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
    Ventimiglia 38
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
  • Paella Cooking Class with English Guide in Malaga: $76
  • Paella Cooking Class in Malaga: $84
  • Malaga Tapas Cooking Class: $89
  • Andalucia by Sunset - half day tour including dinner and Ronda pickup: $93
  • Sardines On Skewers Show Cooking in Malaga beach: $147

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

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

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $94
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Malaga 31
    Ventimiglia 27
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:

  • Skip the Line: Picasso's Birthplace Museum Entrance Ticket: $4.35
  • Guided Walking Tour of the Old Town of Frigiliana: $5.44
  • Malaga Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Mythological and Historical Tour of Almuñecar: $11
  • Museo Carmen Thyssen de Malaga Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Skip the Line: Malaga Automobile and Fashion Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Guided tour in Ronda: $13
  • Andalucia's City Of Dreams: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Ronda: $15
  • 1.5-Hour Roman Theater and Alcazaba Castle Walking Tour: $16
  • City Sightseeing Benalmadena Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $16
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour from Benalmadena: $22
  • Guided Tour and Olive Oil Tasting in Ronda: $22

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Malaga 22
    Ventimiglia 7.19

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
  • Evening Tapas Tour and Wine Tasting in Malaga: $87
  • Malaga Food Walking Tour with Tapas & Wine Tasting: $98
  • Traditional Malaga Tapas and Wine Tour: $118
  • Axarquia VIP Wine Tour with Gourmet Winery Lunch Experience: $227


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


Which is Bigger, Malaga or Ventimiglia?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Malaga and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Malaga and Ventimiglia. The beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Malaga this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ventimiglia this time of the year. In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during summer. Malaga gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Malaga usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Malaga gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Malaga 25°C (77°F) 
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Malaga as well as Ventimiglia. Many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Malaga is generally a little warmer than Ventimiglia. Daily temperatures in Malaga average around 19°C (67°F), and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 17°C (63°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 Ventimiglia. Malaga gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Ventimiglia. Malaga usually gets less rain in October than Ventimiglia. Malaga gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Malaga 19°C (67°F) 
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

Both Ventimiglia and Malaga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Malaga in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

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

Malaga usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during winter. Malaga gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Malaga usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ventimiglia. Malaga gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Malaga 12°C (54°F) 
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Malaga or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

Both Ventimiglia and Malaga during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Malaga. In the spring, Malaga often gets more sunshine than Ventimiglia. Malaga gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Malaga usually gets less rain in April than Ventimiglia. Malaga gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Malaga 16°C (60°F) 
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Malaga

Malaga Ventimiglia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)