A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Malaga for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Malaga can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a authentic, vibrant, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Malaga

Malaga is a historic, beautiful, and friendly 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.

Thiva (Thebes) and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Malaga than Thiva (Thebes), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Malaga is better known for its food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Thiva (Thebes) is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Malaga is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. Also, Malaga is famous for The Alcazaba. Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for Music?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a live music destination.

Malaga has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a live music destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is a port city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is a port city with good options for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Malaga. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is a great destination for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Shopping is a popular activity in both Malaga and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Malaga are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Malaga offers lots of family activities. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is a port city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Malaga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is very popular for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is a great destination for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Malaga.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

While Malaga offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Malaga

Malaga is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Malaga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

Both Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes). Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malaga than Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Malaga 3-7

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Malaga, you'll find nightlife and live music. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Malaga is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Malaga. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Thiva (Thebes). This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Malaga, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Malaga or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Malaga is €140. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thiva (Thebes) and Malaga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Malaga 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Malaga 150
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Malaga

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Malaga


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Malaga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Malaga 31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malaga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Malaga:

  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Marbella - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga Airport AGP to Malaga by Business Car: $51
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga Airport AGP to Malaga by Luxury Van: $57
  • Airport Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport AGP by Business Car: $51
  • Arrival Transfer: Malaga Airport AGP to Malaga by Business Car: $51
  • Arrival Transfer: Malaga Airport AGP to Malaga by Luxury Van: $57
  • Departure Transfer: Malaga to Malaga Airport AGP by Business Car: $51
  • Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) to Malaga Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $37
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Granada - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Malaga - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Malaga Airport (AGP) to Marbella - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Malaga Airport (Costa del Sol) Private Departure Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

Prices for flights to both Malaga and Thiva (Thebes) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Malaga 35

Typical Food Prices in Malaga

Some typical examples of dining costs in Malaga are as follows:


  • Dinner for 2
    30
  • Dinner for 2
    44
  • Breakfast for 2
    8.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Malaga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Malaga.

  • Dinner and Show at Alegría Flamenco & Restaurant in Malaga: $65
  • Paella Cooking Class with English Guide in Malaga: $76
  • Paella Cooking Class in Malaga: $84
  • Malaga Tapas Cooking Class: $89
  • Andalucia by Sunset - half day tour including dinner and Ronda pickup: $93
  • Sardines On Skewers Show Cooking in Malaga beach: $147

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Malaga 31

Typical Entertainment Prices in Malaga

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Malaga are as follows:


  • Entrance to Castillos
    7.10
  • Concert
    31

Tours and Activities in Malaga

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Malaga are as follows:

  • Skip the Line: Picasso's Birthplace Museum Entrance Ticket: $4.35
  • Guided Walking Tour of the Old Town of Frigiliana: $5.44
  • Malaga Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Mythological and Historical Tour of Almuñecar: $11
  • Museo Carmen Thyssen de Malaga Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Skip the Line: Malaga Automobile and Fashion Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Guided tour in Ronda: $13
  • Andalucia's City Of Dreams: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Ronda: $15
  • 1.5-Hour Roman Theater and Alcazaba Castle Walking Tour: $16
  • City Sightseeing Benalmadena Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $16
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour from Benalmadena: $22
  • Guided Tour and Olive Oil Tasting in Ronda: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Malaga 22

Sample the Local Flavors in Malaga

Also in Malaga, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Malaga Nightlife Pub Crawl Tour with Drinks and Clubs Entry: $17
  • Evening Tapas Tour and Wine Tasting in Malaga: $87
  • Malaga Food Walking Tour with Tapas & Wine Tasting: $98
  • Traditional Malaga Tapas and Wine Tour: $118
  • Axarquia VIP Wine Tour with Gourmet Winery Lunch Experience: $227


When comparing the travel costs between Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Malaga Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Malaga. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Malaga in the summer. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more rain than Malaga. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Malaga 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Malaga. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Malaga in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Malaga averages at about 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Malaga. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Malaga 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) is generally cooler than Malaga. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 10°C (51°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Malaga. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Malaga 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Malaga in the Spring?

Both Malaga and Thiva (Thebes) during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Malaga in the spring. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Malaga. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Malaga 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Malaga and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Malaga
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in)