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

Should you visit Arachova or Marseille?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Marseille, 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.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Arachova and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Arachova or Marseille?

Both Marseille and Arachova have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Arachova is better known for its skiing, museums, hiking, and small town charm, while Marseille is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Arachova is well known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Marseille is well known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Arachova different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Marseille Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Marseille

Arachova is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Marseille 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.

Marseille is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Marseille

Arachova is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Arachova. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Arachova
Marseille

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Marseille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Arachova or Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Marseille

Marseille is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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 Arachova for the nightlife scene. 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.


Is Arachova or Marseille Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Marseille

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

Marseille has a beach worth visiting. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Marseille

Marseille 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, 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.

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 Marseille Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Marseille

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marseille 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.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Marseille?

Arachova
Marseille

Marseille is well known for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

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 Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Arachova
Marseille

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Arachova does not offer Christmas markets.

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

Arachova does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Arachova or Marseille Better for Families?

Arachova
Marseille

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Arachova. 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.

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 Arachova or Marseille Better for Couples?

Arachova
Marseille

Arachova and Marseille are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Marseille is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Is Arachova or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Marseille

Marseille is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

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 Marseille Better for Students?

Arachova
Marseille

Marseille is well known for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova is not popular with students.


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

Arachova
Marseille

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

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

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 Arachova or Marseille a more walkable city?

Arachova
Marseille

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

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

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 Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Marseille. In our opinion, Marseille has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Marseille than Arachova. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Marseille than Arachova. 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 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 Marseille.


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

One day in Arachova or Marseille?

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.

The beautiful city of Marseille offers nightlife and food. 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 Marseille?

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful 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.

Marseille is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marseille, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the bustling 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.

Marseille is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Marseille?

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.

Marseille is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. 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 Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Marseille 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 Marseille is €148. 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 Marseille in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Marseille 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Marseille 142
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Marseille

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Marseille? 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 Marseille


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: Marseille Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Marseille 28

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Marseille

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Marseille:


  • Metro Pass
    3.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marseille

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

  • “Airport-Marseille Center Transfers: Luxury and Comfort VTC.”: $87
  • Airport Marseille Transfer to Marseille Old Port: $91
  • Aix en Provence-Transfer from or to Marseille Airport: $102
  • Arles-Transfer From or To Airport MARSEILLE: $218
  • Arrival Private Transfer Marseille Airport MRS to Marseille city or Port by Van: $101
  • Arrival Transfer: MRS Airport to Marseille in Business Car: $109
  • Cannes Private Transfer to Marseille Airport: $642
  • Departure Private Transfer Marseille city or Port to Marseile Airport MRS by Van: $101
  • Departure Private Transfer from Marseille city to Marseille Cruise Port by Van: $101
  • Departure Transfer: Marseille to MRS Airport in Business Car: $109
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Marseille Hotel or Address): $215
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to (MPCT) Marseille Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Marseille?

Prices for flights to both Marseille 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
    Marseille 42

Typical Food Prices in Marseille

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


  • Orangina
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marseille

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

  • Web-cooking workshop / French cuisine or French pastry: $35
  • No Diet Club - Unique food tour in Marseille! (Cours Julien): $63
  • Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $74
  • Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $86
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $86
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $93
  • Sunset Apéro Food tour: $95
  • Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $97
  • Marseille Sunset Apéro Food tour: $97
  • Evening Food Tour with Tastings: $102
  • Sunset Sailing Dinner in the Frioul Archipelago: $102
  • Marseille Miam Miam Food tour: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Marseille 38

Tours and Activities in Marseille

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Marseille:Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • Marseille Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Marseille Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Self-guided Like a Local Highlights Day Tour: $9.52
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Game & Sightseeing: $9.84
  • Panier District Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Humorous and Informative Tour of the Historic Center of La Ciotat: $11
  • Mucem Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Marseille 27

Sample the Local Flavors in Marseille

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Marseille:

  • Marseille Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $21
  • Marseille Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $22
  • Marseille Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party: $43
  • New Year's Eve Bar Crawl Marseille France: $96
  • Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Bandol and Cassis: Full Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $143
  • Luberon: Full-Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $143
  • Full-day Wine Tour around Bandol & Cassis from Marseille: $146
  • Full-Day Wine Tour around Luberon from Marseille: $146
  • Côtes du Rhône Wine tour: Avignon, Palace of the Popes: $164
  • Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion : Avignon & Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour: $164
  • Marseille Shore Excursion - Full Day Wine Tour in Provence: $164


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Marseille in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Marseille. The summer months attract visitors to Arachova because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 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 Arachova this time of the year. In the summer, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marseille. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Marseille. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Marseille 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Marseille in the Autumn?

Both Marseille and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Arachova is a little warmer than Marseille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marseille during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Marseille. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Marseille 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Marseille in the Winter?

Both Marseille and Arachova during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Marseille in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Arachova is much warmer than Marseille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Marseille averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marseille. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Marseille. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Marseille 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Marseille in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Marseille. Many visitors come to Arachova in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Marseille for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Marseille. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Marseille 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Marseille and Arachova

Arachova Marseille
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)