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

Should you visit Athens or Marbella?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Marbella. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella

Marbella is a high energy, ritzy, and glamorous resort town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Athens and Marbella: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Marbella?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens than Marbella, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Marbella is known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Marbella?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Marbella?

Athens is very popular for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Athens are world-renowned. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Marbella? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Athens is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Marbella area. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is world-class in both Athens and Marbella.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Marbella is a world class party destination. European tourists flock to the town for its beaches and resorts. The town has a glamorous nightlife scene with exclusive clubs and ritzy cocktail bars, particularly in Puerto Banus and along the Golden Mile.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Music?

Marbella is great for its music scene. However, Athens is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Marbella draws a good crowd. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Athens is not a live music destination.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Resorts?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Athens is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Marbella for its luxury resorts. From luxury to family-friendly, this area has plenty of resorts to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano Marbella, and Don Carlos Resort and Spa.

Athens is not a resort destination.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Marbella. There are more than 100 dive sights and endless snorkeling opportunities in the area. There are deep offshore reefs that you can explore as well as shallower wrecks and caves.

Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Beaches?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Marbella offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The area boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. They are hubs of activity with lots of energy, and there are more than 18 miles of sandy beach in the area. Popular options include Guadalmina Beach, San Pedro de Alcántara Beach, and Nueva Andalucía Beach.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for its Old Town?

Athens is very popular for its old town. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Athens has a world-famous historical area. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Marbella offers a nice historic old town area. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Marbella?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Marbella specifically to go shopping. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Families?

Both Athens and Marbella are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Marbella is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Couples?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Marbella is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Athens is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Marbella is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels in the area for backpackers who want to enjoy this part of Spain's cost. There's also a lively nightlife scene and plenty of opportunities to meet others.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Students?

Athens is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Marbella is not popular with students.

Athens is a great city to visit as a student. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Marbella is not popular with students.

Is Athens or Marbella Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Athens can get you around easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Public transit is generally limited in Marbella. There is a bus system through the area, but most visitors prefer to get around by car.

Is Athens or Marbella a more walkable city?

Athens and Marbella are great when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Marbella is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable and there are a number of hotels and nice resorts within a short walk of the town along a nice promenade.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Marbella Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marbella or Athens?

How long in Athens or Marbella?

In either Athens or Marbella, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than Marbella because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-5 days is enough time in Marbella.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Marbella 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Marbella?

Athens 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Marbella. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Marbella?

Athens 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.

Marbella is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Marbella?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marbella. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Marbella?

Athens is a great place to explore. 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 Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the glamorous destination of Marbella. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Athens and Marbella, we can see that Athens is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Marbella?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Marbella, 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 Athens or Marbella?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Marbella in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Marbella. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Marbella. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Marbella fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives more rain than Marbella. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Marbella in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Marbella. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Marbella because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Athens is around the same temperature as Marbella in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Marbella fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 213 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than Marbella. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Marbella in the Winter?

Both Marbella and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Marbella this time of year.

In the winter, Athens is cooler than Marbella. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Marbella averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Athens usually receives less sunshine than Marbella during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Marbella. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Marbella in the Spring?

Both Marbella and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Marbella. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Marbella fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 220 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Marbella. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Marbella and Athens