A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Tenerife vs. Malaga for Nightlife, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Tenerife or Malaga?

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

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

Tenerife

Tenerife is a volcanic, scenic, and vibrant island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Malaga

Malaga is a welcoming, historic, and beautiful port city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Tenerife and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tenerife or Malaga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tenerife. Although Tenerife and Malaga are popular destinations, Tenerife has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tenerife is very popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Malaga attracts visitors for its food, music, and historical sights. Tenerife is more touristy than Malaga and is popular for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. It is also well known for Mount Teide. Malaga is famous for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Tenerife different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tenerife is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Malaga. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Tenerife or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

The world-class nightlife scene is relatively similar in Tenerife and Malaga.

Tenerife is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

People head to Malaga just to party. 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 Tenerife or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is a very popular place for live music. However, Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is not a live music destination.

Is Tenerife or Malaga Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Malaga is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Tenerife to choose from. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Malaga is not a resort destination.

Is Tenerife or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Tenerife. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

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 Tenerife or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Tenerife is a well-known place for the beache. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

Many people visit Tenerife for it's beautiful beaches. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Malaga is a good option for a beach vacation. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Is Tenerife or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Malaga to see the historical old town. 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.

Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Is Tenerife or Malaga Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Tenerife is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tenerife or Malaga?

Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

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 Tenerife or Malaga Better for Families?

Tenerife is a must-visit destination 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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Tenerife is very family-friendly. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

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

Is Tenerife or Malaga Better for Couples?

Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is a very popular place to visit for couples. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

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

Is Tenerife or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Malaga. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Tenerife is a good island to visit for backpackers. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

Is Tenerife or Malaga Better for Students?

Malaga is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Tenerife is not popular with 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.

Tenerife is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Tenerife and Malaga.

Tenerife has some public transit options. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

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 Tenerife or Malaga a more walkable city?

Malaga is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Malaga is very walkable. It has a very compact and walkable historic center with most of the tourist attractions easily accessible on foot.

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Tenerife?

How long in Tenerife or Malaga?

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

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Tenerife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful port city of Malaga offers shopping and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Tenerife or Malaga?

Tenerife 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.

Malaga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Tenerife or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tenerife. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Tenerife or Malaga?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Tenerife. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Malaga is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Malaga has to offer. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Tenerife 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 Tenerife or Malaga in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tenerife as well as Malaga. Many travelers come to Tenerife for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and 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.

In the summer, Tenerife is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tenerife in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Malaga averages at about 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 Tenerife this time of the year. In the summer, Tenerife often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Tenerife gets 268 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun.

Tenerife usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Malaga. Tenerife gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Malaga in the Autumn?

Both Malaga and Tenerife are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tenerife in the autumn for the hiking trails, 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 October, Tenerife is generally a little warmer than Malaga. Daily temperatures in Tenerife average around 22°C (72°F), 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 Tenerife. Tenerife usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during autumn. Tenerife gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Malaga. Tenerife gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tenerife or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Tenerife during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tenerife for 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.

Tenerife is a little warmer than Malaga in the winter. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Tenerife often gets more sunshine than Malaga. Tenerife gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun.

Tenerife usually gets less rain in January than Malaga. Tenerife gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Malaga in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Tenerife is a little warmer than Malaga. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tenerife in April average around 18°C (64°F), and Malaga averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Tenerife, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tenerife usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during spring. Tenerife gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Malaga. Tenerife gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Tenerife