Malaga is a welcoming port city known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, enjoying the nightlife, or taking in the beauty, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Malaga that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Malaga?
You should plan to spend around $180 (€165) per day on your vacation in Malaga. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $66 (€60) on meals
- $33 (€31) on local transportation
- $163 (€149) on hotels
A one week trip to Malaga for two people costs, on average, $2,517 (€2,310). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,259
€1,155
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,517
€2,310
-
One Month
Per person
$5,394
€4,950
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,517
€2,310
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$5,035
€4,620
-
One Month
For a couple
$10,789
€9,900
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Malaga cost?
A one week trip to Malaga usually costs around $1,259 (€1,155) for one person and $2,517 (€2,310) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Malaga on average costs around $2,517 (€2,310) for one person and $5,035 (€4,620) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Malaga will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Malaga on average costs around $5,394 (€4,950) for one person and $10,789 (€9,900) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Malaga expensive to visit?
Malaga is a terrific port city that attracts a multitude of tourists with a broad spectrum of travel styles and budgeting preferences. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Although Malaga can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $76 (€69) per day, mid-range travelers spend $181 (€165) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $426 (€390) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Malaga.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Malaga is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Kos or Kiel.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Malaga Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Malaga?
The average Malaga trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Malaga travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Malaga cost?
Malaga on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$33
(€30)
|
$81
(€75)
|
$195
(€179)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$14
(€13)
|
$33
(€31)
|
$66
(€61)
|
|
Food 2
|
$26
(€24)
|
$66
(€60)
|
$165
(€152)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$14
(€13)
|
$34
(€31)
|
$75
(€69)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$5-15
(€5-14)
|
$12-36
(€11-33)
|
$27-82
(€25-76)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Malaga on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.
Who are Budget Travelers?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $76 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Fortunately, you can find plenty of hostels in Malaga, including The Lights Hostel, The Urban Jungle Rooftop Hostel, and TOC Hostel Málaga. These hostels offer inexpensive dorm lodging and a lively social scene, but amenities are often minimal. For visitors to Malaga, food is often a highlight, but budget travelers frequently choose street food or cook in their hostels, which may limit their experience of the local culinary delights.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Most visitors to Malaga will want to visit the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $181 per person, per day.
There are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals available in Malaga. If you're traveling with companions, sharing a hotel with a partner, friend, or kids can help lower costs. Families should seek out hotels and dining options that are suitable for children. La Casa Azul B&B + Apartments is a wonderful family-friendly hotel, and Villa Lorena Malaga is another excellent choice. For more family and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel cost guide for Malaga here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $426 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the port city, prepare for a pricier experience. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Spanish Civil War Private Walking Tour in Malaga - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Malaga
The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Malaga can be very surprising. Some hotels have much higher price tags than others, and in turn offer higher levels of luxury and more amenities. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. The average price for a hotel room in Malaga in the off-season is $101, but in the peak summer travel season it will average around $188. In general, you can expect hotel prices in Malaga to range from $65 to $319. Hostels are typically much cheaper, especially if you stay in a dorm. Also, note that the average hotel price is not always what travelers will pay (see below). You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too, along with taking advantage of sale prices or special deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Malaga for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $163 (€149). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $81 (€75) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Malaga? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Malaga include:
- Room Mate Valeria starting at $120
- Molina Lario starting at $146
- Mariposa Hotel Malaga starting at $126
- Room Mate Larios starting at $107
- Hotel Palacete de Alamos starting at $90
Malaga's public transportation allows you to stay further away from the port city for cheaper lodging, but commuting might add extra transportation costs and eat up your time.
If you're visiting Malaga for a week or more, opting for a vacation rental with a kitchen will let you prepare some of your meals, saving you money.
By skipping summer and traveling during the low or shoulder season, you'll enjoy lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.
Many people like to explore Malaga on foot, so you'll want to stay in an area that is at the center of everything. This can come at a higher price though.
The port city's historic old town is a major draw for travelers. While hotels in this area can be priced high, they frequently feature a lot of character and are well-placed for easy access to attractions.
Transportation Budget in Malaga
With a good public transit network in Malaga, many of the main sights are easy to reach. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system. Public transit is a great way to save some cash and get around, but only if it's close to your destination. Taxis and rideshares are available, too.
Those who relish exploring on foot will find plenty to enjoy during their visit. It has a very compact and walkable historic center with most of the tourist attractions easily accessible on foot.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $33 (€31) per person, per day, on local transportation in Malaga. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Malaga is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$33
€31
If you're driving, make sure your hotel has convenient parking.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Private Transfer Malaga airport AGP to Malaga City by Luxury Van for $54 details
- TRANSFER MALAGA AIRPORT from OR to ESTEPONA-PRICE ALL INCLUSIVE for $123 details
- Private Transfer from Malaga Cruise Port to Málaga Airport (AGP) for $24 details
How much does it cost to go to Malaga? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Malaga will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Malaga
Food in Malaga is outstanding, and it's essential to make time to indulge in all the unique local flavors. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Malaga can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Malaga is $66 (€60) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$66
€60
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Malaga is around $66 (€60) per person, with previous travelers spending from $26 to $166. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Malaga are as follows:
- Breakfast: $7 to $20
- Lunch: $10 to $26
- Dinner: $20 to $46
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $10
Malaga is a great place to enjoy food and dining. It is an area full of diverse local foods including fish, olives, almonds, grapes, raisins, wine, and many seasonal vegetables. The selection makes this some of the freshest and tastiest food you can imagine.
A few local dishes to look out for include: Gazpachuelo Malagueno, which is a locally made soup originally created by fishermen in the area, Plato de los Montes de Malaga, which is the "dish of the mountains of Malaga" and is their take on a combination plate, and Fritura Malaguena, which is the Malagan fried fish. A few restaurants worth checking out are La Recova, Casa Aranda, and Antigua Casa de Guardia.
Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.
Enjoy the scenery while saving money by planning a picnic. Find a nearby grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and choose a lovely park or picturesque spot for your meal.
Opt for a water bottle rather than spending on drinks all the time. It's also a more sustainable choice.
If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Malaga. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Sardines On Skewers Show Cooking in Malaga beach for $209 details
- Malaga Tapas Cooking Class for $87 details
- Dinner and Show at Alegría Flamenco & Restaurant in Malaga for $64 details
Listed below are typical food prices in Malaga, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
-
Dinner for 2
€30
-
Dinner for 2
€44
-
Breakfast for 2
€8.00
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Malaga
The appeal of Malaga is evident, thanks to its nightlife, budget-friendly accommodations, food, and music.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Malaga typically cost an average of $34 (€31) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$34
€31
One sight that is definitely worth a stop in the area is Alzcaba, a palace-fortress that has been extensively restored. It dates from the 11th-century Moorish period; the caliphal horseshoe arches, courtyards and fountains are suggestive of this influential period in Malaga's history. There is also a small archaeological museum located in the former servants' quarters of the Nazari palace, with its exhibits of Moorish ceramics and pottery.
The Museo de Picasso is a great stop for Picasso fans. It is a museum with more than 200 works all of which are donated or loaned by the wife of Pablo Picasso's eldest son. Another place worth stopping to see is the Catedral de Malaga. The stricter was started in the 16th century. Inside, the domed ceiling soar 40m into the air, while the vast colonnaded houses a cedar-wood choir. Aisles lead to 15 chapels with gorgeous 18th-century retables and religious art. Climb the tower (200 steps) to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and coast.
Malaga has a few large festivals that are big attractions to the area. One of which is The Feria de Malaga celebration, which takes place in the month of August. During this festival the streets are transformed into traditional symbols of Spanish culture and history, with sweet wine, tapas, and live flamenco shows. The day events consist of dancing, live music (like Flamenco or Verdiales, traditional music from Malaga) and bullfights at La Malagueta, while the night fair is moved to the Recinto Ferial, consisting of restaurants, clubs, and an entire fair ground with rides and games. Two of the other large festivals include The Holy Week Festival, which runs from Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday, and the Malaga Film Festival, which is held annually for one week in March or April.
There are many other activities to be found in Malaga. Spend a day on the beach area of the Costal del Sol, take a Segway tour of the city, visit one of the many museums, or take one of the many tours offered. Since Malaga is a port city, it is often a place where cruise ships dock and there are many tours offered from this area, including an exciting tapas tour and flamenco dance.
Music:
In Malaga, the music scene is thriving and captivates large audiences. 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.
Historical Sights:
A significant number of visitors flock to the historic 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Malaga. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Offroad buggy tour Sierra de Mijas 3h tour for $118 details
- Malaga Monuments Private Walking Tour for $118 details
- Fun & Delicious Tapas and Wine Experience in Malaga for $128 details
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Malaga are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
-
Entrance to Castillos
€7.10
-
Concert
€31
Nightlife Budget in Malaga
People travel from far and wide to enjoy the world-class nightlife that Malaga has to offer. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $24 (€22) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Malaga per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$24
€22
Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.
Nighttime outings can be fun, but make sure to stay aware of your environment, especially if you've been drinking. Pickpockets or worse could take advantage, so stick to trusted company.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Malaga. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Ronda Tour & Winery Experience with Wine Tasting from Malaga for $107 details
- Winederlust Wine Tasting for $64 details
- TOP WINE TOUR- Vineyard & cellar visit + 6 top wines + tapas for $97 details
Traveling in Malaga
Malaga, Andalusia, Spain
Malaga is a port city in the southern part of Spain. It is the 6th largest city in Spain and the southernmost large city in Europe. Malaga lies on the Mediterranean on the Costa del Sol, only 62 miles east of the Strait of Gibraltar, and 80 miles north of Africa. Malaga's history dates back about 2,800 years, which makes it one of the oldest cities in the world. The archaeological remains and monuments from the Phoenician, Roman, Arabic and Christian eras make the historic center of the city an "open museum", displaying its history of more than 3,000 years. Because of its important cultural infrastructure and the artistic heritage, Malaga has been nominated for the European Capital of Culture. Malaga's most important economic contributors include tourism, technology, and construction, but transportation and logistics are becoming increasingly important factors as well.
Neighborhoods & Around
Much of life in Malaga is centers around the Old Town area, where you will find a range of historical buildings, shops and a thriving street-cafe culture.
The Los Montes neighborhood of Malaga is a very popular part of the city, and features a number of spectacular views and a high concentration of both restaurants and accommodation.
Malaga's many beaches are also a neighborhood or district area in themselves, with many popular attractions and entertainment venues to explore and experience.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.