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

Should you visit Tallinn or Malaga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn 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.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a historical, charming, and quaint city. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Malaga

Malaga is a welcoming, historic, and beautiful port city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Tallinn and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tallinn or Malaga?

You'll generally find more things to do in Malaga than Tallinn. Malaga is bigger than Tallinn, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Malaga is better known for its food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Tallinn is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Tallinn is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Malaga is well known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Also, Malaga is famous for The Alcazaba.

How is Tallinn different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tallinn 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 Tallinn. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Malaga is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Malaga has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Tallinn area. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

Is Tallinn or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Tallinn is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

Is Tallinn or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Tallinn is not a live music destination.

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.

Tallinn is not a live music destination.

Is Tallinn or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Tallinn 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.

Tallinn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tallinn or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Malaga is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Tallinn 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.

Tallinn is not a beach destination.

Is Tallinn or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Tallinn can be explored in its historical center. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

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 the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Malaga?

Tallinn 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.

Tallinn is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

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 Tallinn or Malaga Better for Families?

Tallinn and Malaga are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Tallinn is a family-friendly city. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

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 Tallinn or Malaga Better for Couples?

Tallinn 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.

Tallinn is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

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

Is Tallinn or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn and Malaga are both world-class destinations for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Tallinn is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

Malaga is a very popular 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.

Is Tallinn or Malaga Better for Students?

Malaga is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Malaga is a great port 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.

Tallinn is popular with students. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

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

Tallinn is a well-known place 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.

Tallinn has some very good public transit options. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

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

Is Tallinn or Malaga a more walkable city?

Tallinn 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 Tallinn on foot. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

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 Tallinn Worth Visiting? and Is Malaga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Malaga?

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Tallinn. 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 Tallinn or Malaga?

Tallinn 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 Tallinn or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallinn. 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 Tallinn or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Tallinn. 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 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 40% larger than the population of Tallinn. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn 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 Tallinn 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 Tallinn or Malaga in the Summer?

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

Tallinn is cooler than Malaga in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, 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 Tallinn this time of the year. In the summer, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets more rain in July than Malaga. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tallinn or Malaga in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Tallinn is much colder than Malaga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallinn in October average around 7°C (44°F), and Malaga averages at about 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. Tallinn usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during autumn. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tallinn usually receives more rain than Malaga. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tallinn or Malaga in the Winter?

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

Tallinn can be very cold during winter. In January, Tallinn is generally much colder than Malaga. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around -5°C (22°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in January than Malaga. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tallinn or Malaga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Malaga. The spring months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. Tallinn is much colder than Malaga in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 4°C (39°F) in April, and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. Tallinn usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during spring. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Malaga. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Tallinn