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

Should you visit Osaka or Malaga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Malaga, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Osaka

Osaka is a high energy, colorful, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, 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.

Osaka and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Malaga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka than Malaga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Osaka is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Malaga is known for its music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Osaka is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also home to Osaka Castle. Malaga is popular for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Osaka different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Osaka are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Osaka 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 Osaka, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

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 Osaka or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Both Osaka and Malaga have world-class vibes after the sun sets.

People head to Osaka just to party. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

The nightlife in Malaga is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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 Osaka or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Osaka 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.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Malaga has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Osaka or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

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

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Osaka or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Osaka and Malaga both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Osaka to see the historical old town. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Malaga is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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 Osaka or Malaga?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Osaka make it a world-class shopping destination. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

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 Osaka or Malaga Better for Families?

Osaka is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Osaka is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

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

Is Osaka or Malaga Better for Couples?

Osaka 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.

Osaka is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

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

Is Osaka or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Osaka 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 Osaka. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Is Osaka or Malaga Better for Students?

Both Osaka and Malaga are great destinations for students.

Osaka is a great city to visit as a student. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

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.

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

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Osaka has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

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

Is Osaka or Malaga a more walkable city?

Malaga is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Osaka is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Malaga?

Both Osaka 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 Osaka. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

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

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

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

Osaka is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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, many people enjoy the live music and food that this welcoming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Osaka or Malaga?

Osaka 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Osaka or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. 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 fun place to experience. In Malaga, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Osaka or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Osaka. 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.

In Malaga, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this historic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Osaka and Malaga, we can see that Malaga is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Osaka is in Asia and Malaga is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Osaka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Osaka 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 Osaka.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Malaga?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Malaga. When comparing the sizes of Osaka 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 Osaka 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 Osaka or Malaga in the Summer?

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

In July, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Malaga. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the summer. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Malaga. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Malaga in the Autumn?

Both Malaga and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Osaka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Malaga. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Malaga. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Osaka during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Osaka is much colder than Malaga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Malaga averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Malaga. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Malaga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Malaga. The spring months attract visitors to Osaka because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Malaga. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Osaka