Spain remains one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations, but choosing between Alicante and Malaga isn’t always easy. Both offer sunshine, beaches and excellent value, but they appeal to different types of travellers.

Choose Alicante If…

Alicante is the gateway to the Costa Blanca, one of Spain’s most popular holiday regions.

Perfect for:

• Family holidays

• Affordable beach breaks

• Benidorm visitors

• Winter sun escapes

Popular nearby resorts include Benidorm, Calpe, Altea and Torrevieja.

Choose Malaga If…

Malaga serves the Costa del Sol and offers a more varied mix of beach resorts, culture and nightlife.

Perfect for:

• Couples

• Golf holidays

• Luxury breaks

• City and beach combinations

Popular nearby resorts include Marbella, Fuengirola, Torremolinos and Estepona.

Flight Times

From most UK airports, both destinations can be reached in under three hours.

Alicante:

• Approximate flight time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Malaga:

• Approximate flight time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Which Is Cheaper?

Alicante generally offers lower accommodation costs and budget-friendly resorts.

Malaga often attracts higher-end visitors, particularly in Marbella and Puerto Banús.

The Travel Savage Verdict

Choose Alicante for value, family-friendly beaches and traditional package holidays.

Choose Malaga for a more sophisticated Costa del Sol experience with excellent dining, culture and nightlife.

Whichever destination you choose, comparing flight prices across multiple airlines can help you secure the best deal.