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

Europe / Comparisons /
Jump to  down-arrow

Should you visit Mykonos or Malaga?

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 Mykonos and Malaga. 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.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Malaga

Malaga is a friendly, welcoming, and historic port city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Mykonos and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Mykonos
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Malaga
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples


How is Mykonos different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Mykonos or Malaga Better for Food?

Mykonos
Malaga

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Malaga can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Mykonos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita 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 Mykonos or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Malaga

Both Mykonos and Malaga are comparable when it comes to partying.

The nightlife in Mykonos is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

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.

Is Mykonos or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Malaga

You'll find places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Mykonos and Malaga.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

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.

Is Mykonos or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Malaga

Mykonos provides a better beach experience than Malaga.

Many people visit Mykonos for it's beautiful beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

The beach in Malaga is worth checking out. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Is Mykonos or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Malaga

Visitors enjoy the old town areas in both Mykonos and Malaga.

With a famous historical old-town, Mykonos offers plenty to see. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

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 Mykonos or Malaga Better for Shopping?

Mykonos
Malaga

Mykonos is generally considered to be a more popular shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in 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 Mykonos or Malaga Better for Families?

Mykonos
Malaga

Both Mykonos and Malaga are family-friendly destinations.

Mykonos is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

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

Is Mykonos or Malaga Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Malaga

While Malaga and Mykonos are both popular destinations, overall Mykonos is considered to be a more popular choice.

Mykonos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Malaga is a good Greek island for couples to visit. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

Is Mykonos or Malaga Better for Public Transit?

Mykonos
Malaga

Both Mykonos and Malaga offer public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

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


Is Mykonos or Malaga a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Malaga

Mykonos and Malaga both are comparable when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Mykonos on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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.

Which city is cheaper, Malaga or Mykonos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €119, while the average daily cost in Malaga is €106. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mykonos and Malaga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos €59
    Malaga €54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos €118
    Malaga €108
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Malaga

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Malaga? 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 Mykonos


Hotels in Malaga


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: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Malaga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos €19
    Malaga €25
Typical Local Transportation prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    €5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    €13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • Transfer Service: $45
  • Private Transfer to/from Mykonos Airport (JMK): $52
  • One Way Private Transfer within Mykonos Island MINI VAN: $73
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Choulakia area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Glastros area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Tourlos area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Drafaki area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Vryssi area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Agrari area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Platis Yalos area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Chora area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Aghios Stefanos - Mykonos area up to 6 customers: $98

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malaga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malaga:

  • Private Airport Transfer: from Malaga to Malaga Airport (AGP): $17
  • Transfer from Malaga Airport to Costa del Sol Hotels (Any Hotel): $17
  • Transfer from your Hotel to Malaga Airport (Departure Transfer): $17
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to Malaga City Center: $20
  • Private Departure Transfer from Malaga City Center to Malaga Airport (AGP): $20
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Malaga - Arrival Private Van Transfer: $20
  • Malaga to Malaga Airport (AGP) - Departure Private Van Transfer: $20
  • Private Airport Transfer: Malaga Airport (AGP) to Malaga: $21
  • Malaga Airport (Costa del Sol) Private Arrival Transfer: $24
  • Malaga Airport (Costa del Sol) Private Departure Transfer: $24
  • Arrival Private Transfer Business Car Malaga airport AGP to Malaga: $26
  • Departure Private Transfer Business Car Malaga City to Malaga airport AGP: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Malaga?

Prices for flights to both Malaga and Mykonos 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
    Mykonos €38
    Malaga €27
Typical Food prices in Mykonos

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


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    €4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

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

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $74
  • Mykonos Cooking Class: $159

Typical Food prices in Malaga

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


  • 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.

  • Sardines Espetos Cooking Workshop: $73
  • Malaga Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $86
  • Sardines On Skewers Cooking Class in Malaga: $111
  • Malaga Sunset Cruise and Restaurant Dinner: $112
  • Málaga Swim Cruise with Tapas Dinner and Flamenco Show: $128
  • Malaga Catamaran Cruise with BBQ Lunch and Port Restaurant Dinner: $146
  • Malaga Market Visit and Cooking Class in Malaga Countryside House: $149

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos €18
    Malaga €25

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $40
  • Half-Day City Walking Tour and Island Bus Tour: $44
  • Discover Authentic Mykonos Tour: $51
  • Little Venice Sunset Cruise: $57
  • The Original Morning Delos Guided Tour: $68
  • Tinos Tour: $93
  • One Day Cruise to Delos-Mykonos from Paros Island: $93
  • From 6.5-Hour Cruise to Delos and Rhenia: $100
  • One Day Cruise to Delos-Mykonos from Paros Island: $129
  • South Coast Beach Hopping Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch: $139
  • Full-Day Sightseeing Tour with Lunch: $159
  • Mykonos Shore Excursion: City & Island Tour: $250

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:

  • Alcazaba de Málaga and Teatro Romano Walking Tour in Spanish: $4.98
  • Skip the Line: Picasso's Birthplace Museum Entrance Ticket: $4.98
  • Walking Tour of Malaga's Historic Center: $7.46
  • Skip the Line: Centre Pompidou in Malaga Ticket: $11
  • Skip the Line: Museo Picasso Malaga Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Museo Carmen Thyssen de Malaga Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Skip the Line: Malaga Automobile and Fashion Museum Entrance Ticket: $14
  • 1.5-Hour Roman Theater and Alcazaba Castle Walking Tour: $16
  • Skip-the-Line Malaga Cathedral Tickets with Tour: $18
  • Malaga Segway Castle Tour: $22
  • Adventure City Game with Augmented Reality: $23
  • Fast and Curious segway tour (30min): $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos €16
    Malaga €18

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 Skip-the-line Club Access: $26
  • Frigiliana Small-Group Hike and Wine Tasting Tour from Malaga: $49
  • Muscatel Winery Tour and Wine Tastings from Malaga: $75
  • Malaga Tapas and Wine Tour: $81
  • Flamenco, Tapas and Wine Tour: BEST OF Málaga in one evening!: $108
  • Private Ronda Wine Tour with Tapas Including a Visit to Ronda: $404
  • Ronda Private Full Day Wine Tour with Tapas: $406
  • Malaga Shore Excursion: Panoramic Buggy Tour with Wine Tasting in a Historical Cellar: $481

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Mykonos and Malaga, we can see that Mykonos 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.

Budget Your Trip

Budget Your Trip has average travel costs for thousands of cities around the world, all provided by other travelers. You can also register to organize your spending by category and location with graphs, maps, charts, and tables.
Sign Up

More City Comparisons
Paphos vs. Mykonos
Paphos vs. Malaga
Santorini vs. Mykonos
Santorini vs. Malaga
Mykonos vs. Kos
Mykonos vs. Ios
Mykonos vs. Antalya
Mykonos vs. Rhodes
Mykonos vs. Portimao
Mykonos vs. Lagos
Mykonos vs. Faro
Mykonos vs. Albufeira
Mykonos vs. Corfu
Mykonos vs. Valencia
Mykonos vs. Palma de Mallorca
Mykonos vs. Marbella
Mykonos vs. Cadiz
Mykonos vs. Almeria
Mykonos vs. Valletta
Mykonos vs. Toulon
Mykonos vs. Saint-Tropez
Mykonos vs. Nice
Mykonos vs. Montpellier
Mykonos vs. Monaco
Mykonos vs. Marseille
Mykonos vs. Cannes
Mykonos vs. Barcelona
Mykonos vs. Ventimiglia
Share This Page
Pin This Page
Mykonos vs. Malaga Travel Comparison

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.