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

Should you visit Nafplio or Malaga?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Nafplio or Malaga? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a beautiful, picturesque, and romantic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

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.

Nafplio and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nafplio or Malaga?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Malaga. Although Nafplio and Malaga 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 Nafplio is known for its museums. Nafplio is popular for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. Malaga 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.

How is Nafplio different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nafplio or Malaga?

Nafplio is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nafplio. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Nafplio and Malaga offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Nafplio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Malaga makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Nafplio or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

The people in Nafplio know how to have a good time. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

Is Nafplio or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Nafplio is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Malaga has diverse options. 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.

Nafplio is not a live music destination.

Is Nafplio or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Nafplio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nafplio or Malaga Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Nafplio and Malaga are good choices.

Nafplio is a good option for a beach vacation. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

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.

Is Nafplio or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the superb old towns in both Nafplio and Malaga.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nafplio. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Malaga?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Nafplio and Malaga.

Nafplio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Malaga is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Is Nafplio or Malaga Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nafplio or Malaga.

Nafplio is a family-friendly city. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Malaga. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

Is Nafplio or Malaga Better for Couples?

Nafplio 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.

Nafplio is a very popular place to visit for couples. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

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

Is Nafplio or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nafplio 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.

Nafplio is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

Is Nafplio or Malaga Better for Students?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Nafplio 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.

Nafplio is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Nafplio and Malaga.

Nafplio has some public transit options. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

You'll find some public transit in Malaga, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.

Is Nafplio or Malaga a more walkable city?

Nafplio 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 Nafplio on foot. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

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 Nafplio Worth Visiting? and Is Malaga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Malaga?

Both Nafplio and Malaga have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Malaga than in Nafplio. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nafplio, and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nafplio. 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.

In Malaga, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Nafplio or Malaga?

Nafplio 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.

In Malaga, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Nafplio or Malaga?

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

Malaga is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Nafplio or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the romantic destination of Nafplio. This city 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. In Malaga, you'll find live music and food. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio and Malaga, 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 Nafplio or Malaga?

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 Nafplio or Malaga in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Malaga. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nafplio is generally around the same temperature as Malaga. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 25°C (76°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nafplio this time of the year. In the summer, Nafplio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets more rain in July than Malaga. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Malaga in the Autumn?

Both Malaga and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

Nafplio is around the same temperature as Malaga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Malaga fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during autumn. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Nafplio. In October, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Malaga. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nafplio or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Nafplio during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Nafplio is cooler than Malaga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nafplio in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Malaga averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Nafplio often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually gets more rain in January than Malaga. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Malaga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Malaga. Many travelers come to Nafplio for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Malaga in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Nafplio is generally around the same temperature as Malaga. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 15°C (58°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Nafplio, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during spring. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Malaga. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Nafplio