A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seoul vs. Malaga for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Backpackers

Should you visit Seoul or Malaga?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Malaga can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a high energy, colorful, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

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 beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Seoul and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Malaga?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Malaga. Seoul is bigger than Malaga, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its museums, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Malaga is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Seoul 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 Seoul. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Seoul 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 Seoul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

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 Seoul or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Malaga is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Seoul has a large number of nightlife venues. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Is Seoul or Malaga Better for Music?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Seoul K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

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.

Is Seoul or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Seoul or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Malaga is very good for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

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.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a well-known place for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

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.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Malaga?

Seoul 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 Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

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 Seoul or Malaga Better for Families?

Seoul 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.

Seoul is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

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

Is Seoul or Malaga Better for Couples?

Seoul 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.

Seoul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

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

Is Seoul or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is very popular for backpackers. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Malaga. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

It's common for backpackers to visit Seoul. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

Is Seoul or Malaga Better for Students?

Seoul and Malaga are both high quality destinations for students and younger travelers.

Seoul is very popular with students. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

Malaga is a great city to visit as a student. 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 Seoul or Malaga Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Seoul 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.

Seoul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

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

Is Seoul or Malaga a more walkable city?

Seoul and Malaga both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Seoul is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

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 Seoul Worth Visiting? and Is Malaga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Malaga?

Both Seoul and Malaga have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Seoul has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Seoul than Malaga. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

Seoul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 historic 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 Seoul or Malaga?

Seoul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. 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 Seoul or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. 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 Seoul or Malaga?

Seoul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Malaga?

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

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 Seoul or Malaga in the Summer?

Both Malaga and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Seoul in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Malaga in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Seoul. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Malaga. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Malaga in the Autumn?

Both Malaga and Seoul during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Malaga because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Seoul is cooler than Malaga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Malaga averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the autumn, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Malaga. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Malaga in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Malaga. The winter months attract visitors to Seoul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

The weather in Seoul can be very cold. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Malaga. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Malaga. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Malaga in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Malaga. The activities around the city are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Seoul is cooler than Malaga in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In the spring, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets more rain in April than Malaga. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Seoul