A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Marrakech for Old Town, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Arachova or Marrakech?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Marrakech, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a bustling, beautiful, and outdoorsy town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Marrakech

Marrakech is a high-energy, fascinating, and ancient city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arachova and Marrakech: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Arachova or Marrakech?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marrakech than Arachova, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Marrakech is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Arachova is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and small town charm. Marrakech is more touristy than Arachova and is popular for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. Also, Marrakech is famous for Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Arachova is well known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing.

How is Arachova different from Marrakech?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Marrakech Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Marrakech

Arachova is a popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Marrakech is not a skiing destination.

Head to Arachova for some great skiing and other winter activities. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Marrakech is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Marrakech?

Arachova
Marrakech

Marrakech is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Marrakech can be an interesting and educational experience. While wandering the medina is an attraction in and of itself, there are also several sights that you should specifically check out. The iconic Djemaa el-Fnaa, or the city's main square, is best visited as the sun goes down. Other notable landmarks include Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle Gardens, and Medersa Ben Youssef.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Marrakech? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Marrakech

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Marrakech can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Marrakech has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Moroccan food is amazing and you'll enjoy grilled meats, tagines, couscous, and more. The city is more touristy than some parts of Morocco so you'll find the quality of the food can vary a bit, but it's still a culinary delight. Marrakesh is also a great city for taking a cooking class.

Is Arachova or Marrakech Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Marrakech

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Arachova has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Marrakech has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Although alcohol is hard to come by, you'll find it in most western style restaurants and high end hotel chains. The city has more bars and nightclubs than you'd expect. There's also a great nighttime energy with many locals heading outside in the evening. Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, comes to life with street vendors, performers, and people during the nighttime hours.


Is Arachova or Marrakech Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Marrakech

Marrakech is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Marrakech offers plenty to see. The historic medina is filled with spices, antiques, art, and pottery. The culture and experience of wandering the medina will have you feeling like you stepped back in time.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Is Arachova or Marrakech Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Marrakech

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marrakech is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Marrakech is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Marrakech?

Arachova
Marrakech

Marrakech is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Marrakech is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shop your way through the street stalls and sample perfumes, spices, produce, and more. You'll find everything from souvenir trinkets to local items and authentic antiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.


Is Arachova or Marrakech Better for Families?

Arachova
Marrakech

Arachova and Marrakech are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Marrakech is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy exploring a new culture and wandering through the medina. The food is very kid-friendly and during the evening the main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, comes to life with street performers, vendors, and entertainment. Families can also take cooking classes or head into the desert for a camel trek.

Is Arachova or Marrakech Better for Couples?

Arachova
Marrakech

Marrakech is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Marrakech has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. There are many wonderful restaurants and fascinating places for couples to explores. Wandering the medina or visiting the gardens make for a romantic and adventurous getaway.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Arachova or Marrakech Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Marrakech

Marrakech is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Marrakech is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is very affordable and there are countless riads that are budget-friendly. There are enough backpackers around town that it's not hard to meet fellow travelers.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Marrakech Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Marrakech

Arachova is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.

Arachova has some public transit options. There are some public buses in the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marrakech. While there are local buses, most people take taxis around town when they can't walk. Taxis are affordable and convenient.

Is Arachova or Marrakech a more walkable city?

Arachova
Marrakech

Marrakech is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Marrakech is very walkable. The medina is the best area to walk around but it's very easy to get lost. Outside of the medina you'll want to keep your eyes open for motorbikes and the occasional donkey.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marrakech or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Marrakech?

Both Arachova and Marrakech have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marrakech than in Arachova. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 3-7 days is enough time in Marrakech.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Marrakech than Arachova 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 Marrakech.


  • How many days in Arachova or Marrakech? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Marrakech 3-7

One day in Arachova or Marrakech?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the town of Arachova. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Marrakech is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Marrakech?

You'll find nightlife and food around the outdoorsy destination of Arachova. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Marrakech is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Marrakech?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Arachova. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Marrakech is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marrakech, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Marrakech?

Arachova 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.

Marrakech is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marrakech has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Morocco.


Which place is cheaper, Marrakech or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Marrakech is €64. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Marrakech in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Marrakech 43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Marrakech 86
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Marrakech

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Marrakech? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Marrakech


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Marrakech Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Marrakech 5.91

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech

Also for Marrakech, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Marrakech Transfer one way: $22
  • Hammam Massage Transfers Included: $71
  • Private Transfer Agadir airport - Marrakech: $164
  • Private Transfer From or To Marrakesh Menara Airport RAK: $9.83
  • private transfer to or from Marrakech and Taroudant one trip: $98
  • transfer from Marrakech city to Agadir city (AGA) one-way: $82
  • "Marrakech to Chefchaouen: Your Exclusive Private Transfer": $250
  • "Marrakech to El Jadida: Private Transfer for Your Comfort": $109
  • 2h Buggy Adventure in the Marrakech Desert with Transfer and Tea Break: $49
  • Agadir and Marrakech airport transfer : $290
  • Agadir private transfer from Imlil to Agadir airport (AGA): $271
  • Agadir private transfer from Ouirgane to Agadir airport (AGA): $290

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Marrakech?

Prices for flights to both Marrakech and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Marrakech 12

Typical Food Prices in Marrakech

For Marrakech, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Orange Juice on the Square
    0.28
  • Breakfast
    1.12
  • Dates
    0.56
  • Olives
    0.84
  • Sandwich
    1.21
  • Souvenir Spices
    5.79

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech

For Marrakech, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride and Dinner from Marrakech: $15
  • Online Moroccan Cooking Class: $17
  • Cooking Lesson at the Ouirgane Ecolodge with Lunch: $19
  • Restaurant Dinner Experience with Hotel Pickup: $21
  • Sunset in Agafay: Dinner, Camel, Quad-Book Adventure with Viator: $22
  • Dinner Show in Agafay Desert with Quad Bike & Camels: $22
  • Typical Moroccan Dinner at the inhabitant in Marrakech: $22
  • Marrakesh: Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner with a Show and Transfers : $22
  • Dinner Show Under stars in Agafay Desert with Sunset Camel Ride: $22
  • Dinner in Desert Marrakech and Camel ride at Sunset: $23
  • Magical Dinner & Agafay Desert ,Under The Stars: $24
  • Moroccan Cooking Class with a Local Chef: $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Marrakech 6.57

Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Marrakech's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Palace Tickets
    1.87
  • Golf at Atlas Golf
    53

Tours and Activities in Marrakech

For Marrakech, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3-Hour Colorful Souks Tour: $5.00
  • Marrakesh: Cactus Thiemann Entry Ticket: $8.24
  • Atlas Mountains Tour with Camel Ride: $9.00
  • Palmerai adventure on quad atv: $10
  • Marrakech:Quad Tour in Palmeraie: $14
  • Historical Marrakech Walking Tour: $15
  • Full Day Hiking Tour to Atlas Mountains from Marrakech: $15
  • Full Day Tour to Atlas Mountains in Imlil Valley: $15
  • Marrakech Sightseeing Tour: $15
  • Marrakech activities: Camel ride tour Marrakech: $15
  • Essaouira 1 Day Tour From Marrakech: $16
  • Anima Garden Admission Ticket: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Marrakech 14


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Marrakech?

Marrakech has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Marrakech, 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.