A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wellington vs. Malaga for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Wellington or Malaga?

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

Should I visit Wellington or Malaga? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Wellington

Wellington is a compact, laid-back, and funky city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Wellington and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wellington or Malaga?

You'll generally find more things to do in Malaga than Wellington. Malaga is bigger than Wellington, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Malaga is better known for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Wellington is more popular for its museums, beaches, hiking, and shopping. Wellington is well known for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. 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 Wellington different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Wellington offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Wellington and Malaga offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Wellington has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

Dining out in Malaga is an experience not to be missed. 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 Wellington or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Wellington 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.

Wellington is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

Is Wellington or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Wellington 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.

Wellington is not a live music destination.

Is Wellington or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Wellington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Wellington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Wellington or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Wellington 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 Wellington for it's beautiful beaches. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

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 Wellington or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

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

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.

Wellington does not have a historic old town.

Is Wellington or Malaga Better for Hiking?

Wellington is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Wellington offers some nice hiking trails. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Malaga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wellington or Malaga?

Wellington 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.

Wellington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

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 Wellington or Malaga Better for Families?

Wellington 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.

Wellington is a very kid-friendly city. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

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

Is Wellington or Malaga Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Wellington and Malaga make for a notable place to visit.

Wellington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

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

Is Wellington or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Malaga is extremely popular for backpackers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Wellington is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Is Wellington or Malaga Better for Students?

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

Malaga is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Wellington is popular with students. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

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

Wellington 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.

Wellington has some very good public transit options. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

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

Is Wellington or Malaga a more walkable city?

Wellington and Malaga are superb when it comes to walkability.

Wellington is a very walkable city. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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 Wellington Worth Visiting? and Is Malaga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Wellington?

How long in Wellington or Malaga?

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

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wellington. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With live music and food around the welcoming port city of Malaga, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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 one day exploring.

A weekend in Wellington or Malaga?

Wellington 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Malaga, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Wellington or Malaga?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wellington. Most people come for the beaches. 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, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this port city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wellington or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of Wellington. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Malaga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this port city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Wellington or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Wellington. When comparing the sizes of Wellington 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 Wellington or Malaga?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wellington is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Malaga has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Wellington or Malaga in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Wellington as well as Malaga. Most visitors come to Wellington for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Wellington is cooler than Malaga in the summer. The daily temperature in Wellington averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wellington this time of the year. In the summer, Wellington often gets less sunshine than Malagain July. Wellington gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun.

Wellington usually gets more rain in January than Malagain July. Wellington gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wellington or Malaga in the Autumn?

Both Malaga and Wellington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Wellington because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

In the autumn, Wellington is cooler than Malaga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wellington in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Malaga averages at about 19°C (67°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Malaga. Wellington usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during autumn. Wellington gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Wellington usually receives more rain than Malagain October. Wellington gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wellington or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Wellington during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wellington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In July, Wellington is generally cooler than Malagain January. Daily temperatures in Wellington average around 10°C (49°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Wellington often gets less sunshine than Malagain January. Wellington gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wellington. Wellington usually gets more rain in July than Malagain January. Wellington gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wellington or Malaga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Wellington and Malaga. Many travelers come to Wellington for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Malaga in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. Wellington usually receives less sunshine than Malaga during spring. Wellington gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Wellington usually receives more rain than Malagain April. Wellington gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Wellington