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

Should you visit Vilnius or Malaga?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Vilnius and Malaga. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Vilnius

Vilnius is a authentic, historic, and religious city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, 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.

Vilnius and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Malaga?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Malaga. Although Vilnius and Malaga are about the same size, Malaga has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Malaga is better known for its food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Vilnius is more popular for its museums. Malaga is more touristy than Vilnius 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. Vilnius is well known for its authentic old town and long running history.

How is Vilnius different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Vilnius is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

Vilnius offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has fascinating museums relating to Soviet times. These include the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights and the Lithuanian Diaspora Art Museum. Other notable sights include the Three Crosses Monument and the St. Anne's and Bernardine Church Complex.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Malaga is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Vilnius is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is hearty with plenty of meat and potatoes. There are also soups and herring dishes as well as great desserts. Popular dishes in the area include cepelinai (meat filled potato dumplings), kibinai (a pastry), and potato pancakes.

Is Vilnius or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is an amazing port city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Malaga has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Vilnius has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The large student population is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene. You'll find most of the activity centered around three streets - Vilniaus, Islandijos and Vokiečių. These areas have a number of bars and clubs, and they draw the biggest crowds.

Is Vilnius or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is notable for its live music scene. However, Vilnius is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Malaga. 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.

Vilnius is not a live music destination.

Is Vilnius or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Vilnius is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Vilnius or Malaga Better for Beaches?

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

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

Vilnius is not a beach destination.

Is Vilnius or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the excellent old town areas in both Vilnius and Malaga.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Vilnius. The old town is filled with history, architecture, and churches. It's also where you'll find Vilnius University. At the heart of the area is Pilies Gatve (Castle Street), which has shopping, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Vilnius or Malaga?

Both Vilnius and Malaga are notable shopping destinations.

Vilnius offers some nice shopping areas. For quaint shops, head to old town, particularly around Pilies Gatve. The city also has an open air market, Kalvarijų Turgus, that is popular on Saturdays. There are also a few shopping malls around town.

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 Vilnius or Malaga Better for Families?

Both Vilnius and Malaga are notable family-friendly destinations.

Vilnius is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of historic sights, but once your kids have had their fill, you can head to one of the outdoor or indoor play areas in the city center. There's also a toy museum and an Energy and Technology Museum that kids will enjoy. After a busy day, make sure you grab some ice cream to lift everyone's spirits.

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

Is Vilnius or Malaga Better for Couples?

Vilnius and Malaga both notable destinations for a couple.

Vilnius makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with viewpoints, from hill tops to towers, where you can enjoy romantic views over the landscape. You can also dine in a local restaurant or enjoy a picnic in one of the outdoor settings.

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

Is Vilnius or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is an amazing port city to visit for backpackers. Also, Vilnius 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Vilnius. For backpackers who want to escape the crowds, this off-the-beaten path European capital is a great option. It has history, charm, and an authenticity that is hard to find in a more touristy area. It's also an affordable city, with hostels and plenty of cheap places to eat.

Is Vilnius or Malaga Better for Students?

Malaga is notable for students. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit 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.

Plenty of students visit Vilnius. The city is small but charming with a number of places where international students can study. It's an affordable city with a lively atmosphere and an authenticate and genuine personality.

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

Both Vilnius and Malaga offer notable public transit options.

Vilnius has a few public transit options. Bus and trolleybuses are available.

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

Is Vilnius or Malaga a more walkable city?

Malaga is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Vilnius is a somewhat walkable city. The old town is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Malaga?

Both Vilnius 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 Vilnius. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Vilnius, and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

Families should spend more time in Malaga than Vilnius. 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 Vilnius. 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 Vilnius 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 Vilnius or Malaga?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Vilnius. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Vilnius or Malaga?

Vilnius 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 Vilnius or Malaga?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Vilnius. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Lithuania, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius 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 Vilnius 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 Vilnius or Malaga in the Summer?

Both Malaga and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Vilnius because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

Vilnius is cooler than Malaga in the summer. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vilnius. Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives more rain than Malaga. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or Malaga in the Autumn?

Both Malaga and Vilnius during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Vilnius is much colder than Malaga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vilnius in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Malaga averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Malaga. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Malaga in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Malaga. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Malaga in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vilnius. In January, Vilnius is generally much colder than Malaga. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around -5°C (23°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Malaga. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Malaga in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Malaga. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Malaga for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Vilnius is much colder than Malaga in the spring. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. In the spring, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets more rain in April than Malaga. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Vilnius