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

Should you visit Antwerp or Marseille?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Marseille can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Marseille?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Antwerp than Marseille. While Marseille is larger than Antwerp, Antwerp has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antwerp is more popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Marseille is known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Marseille is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antwerp or Marseille?

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Marseille? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Marseille is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Marseille has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Antwerp or Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Marseille is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Marseille is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

Many people head to Antwerp for the nightlife scene. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Antwerp or Marseille Better for Beaches?

Marseille is very good for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Marseille to enjoy the beach. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Antwerp or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Marseille is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Marseille offers plenty to see. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Marseille?

Antwerp is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Antwerp specifically to go shopping. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Marseille is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Is Antwerp or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is very good for its Christmas markets. However, Antwerp does not offer Christmas markets.

Marseille offers some nice Christmas markets. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Antwerp does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Antwerp or Marseille Better for Families?

Antwerp is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Antwerp is a family-friendly port city. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Antwerp or Marseille Better for Couples?

Marseille is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Marseille frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Antwerp is a good port city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Antwerp or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp and Marseille are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

It's common for backpackers to visit Marseille. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Is Antwerp or Marseille Better for Students?

Antwerp and Marseille are excellent places to visit for students.

Antwerp is very popular with students. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Marseille is a great port city to visit as a student. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Is Antwerp or Marseille Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Antwerp and Marseille.

You'll find some public transit in Antwerp, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

While Marseille offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Is Antwerp or Marseille a more walkable city?

Antwerp and Marseille both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

Marseille is a very walkable destination. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antwerp and Marseille. In our opinion, Marseille has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Marseille than Antwerp. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 2-3 days is enough time in Marseille.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Marseille than Antwerp 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 Marseille.

One day in Antwerp or Marseille?

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Antwerp. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Marseille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This 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 Antwerp or Marseille?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Marseille, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marseille has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical port city of Antwerp. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Marseille is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Marseille?

Antwerp is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Marseille. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antwerp and Marseille, we can see that Marseille is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp 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 Marseille would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Marseille than you might in Antwerp.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Marseille, 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 Antwerp or Marseille?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antwerp or Marseille in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Marseille. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Marseille for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Antwerp is cooler than Marseille. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Marseille averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antwerp this time of the year. In the summer, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in July than Marseille. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Marseille in the Autumn?

Both Marseille and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Marseille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Antwerp is generally cooler than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of rain as Marseille. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antwerp or Marseille in the Winter?

Both Marseille and Antwerp during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. Antwerp is much colder than Marseille in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Marseille fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in January than Marseille. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Marseille in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Marseille. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Marseille because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Antwerp is much colder than Marseille. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Marseille averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of rain as Marseille. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marseille and Antwerp