Which place is cheaper, Marrakech or Athens?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Athens or Marrakech?
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 Marrakech. 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Athens offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Athens travel costs.
Marrakech
Marrakech is a fascinating, ancient, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Marrakech attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Marrakech travel costs.
Athens and Marrakech: Pros and Cons
Athens
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Good public transit
- Big city activities
- Home to the Acropolis
- Less popular for shopping
- Less popular with couples
Marrakech
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- 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
- Less popular for nightlife
- Public transit not as usable
Is there more to do in Athens or Marrakech?
Tourists will generally find more to do in Marrakech. Although Athens and Marrakech are about the same size, Marrakech has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Marrakech is very popular for its shopping and impressive beauty, while Athens attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, and nightlife. Marrakech is more touristy than Athens and is known for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. It is also well known for Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Athens is famous for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy.
How is Athens different from Marrakech?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Marrakech 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 Marrakech?
Athens
Marrakech
Athens is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.
With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. 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.
Many visitors head to Marrakech specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.
Is the Food Better in Athens or Marrakech? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Athens
Marrakech
Athens is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.
For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.
With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Marrakech makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Athens or Marrakech Better for Nightlife?
Athens
Marrakech
Athens is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.
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.
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 Athens or Marrakech Better for its Old Town?
Athens
Marrakech
Visitors enjoy the amazing old town areas in both Athens and Marrakech.
With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. 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.
The rich history of Marrakech can be explored in its historical center. 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.
Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Marrakech?
Athens
Marrakech
Marrakech 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 Marrakech specifically to go shopping. 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.
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 Marrakech More Beautiful?
Athens
Marrakech
Marrakech is great for its scenery and beauty. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.
With stunning beauty, Marrakech attracts visitors from all around. It is most beautiful as the sun sinks low and the color become strikingly pink.
Athens is a gorgeous place to visit. With it's stunning archaeological sites, Athens is most beautiful at night, when things light up.
Is Athens or Marrakech Better for Families?
Athens
Marrakech
Both Athens and Marrakech are superb 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.
Marrakech is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Athens or Marrakech Better for Couples?
Athens
Marrakech
Marrakech is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.
Marrakech is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.
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 Marrakech Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Athens
Marrakech
For backpackers, both Athens and Marrakech are amazing places to visit.
A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.
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.
Is Athens or Marrakech Better for Students?
Athens
Marrakech
Athens is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marrakech is not popular with students.
Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.
Marrakech is not popular with students.
Is Athens or Marrakech Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Athens
Marrakech
Athens is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.
Athens offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.
Public transit is generally limited in Marrakech. While there are local buses, most people take taxis around town when they can't walk. Taxis are affordable and convenient.
Is Athens or Marrakech a more walkable city?
Athens
Marrakech
Athens and Marrakech are superb 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.
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.
For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Marrakech or Athens?
How long in Athens or Marrakech?
Both Athens and Marrakech have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Athens has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Athens than Marrakech. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Athens than Marrakech. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Athens, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Marrakech than Athens. 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 Athens than Marrakech 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.
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How many days in Athens or Marrakech? Ideal Length of StayAthens 3-7Marrakech 3-7
One day in Athens or Marrakech?
People visit Athens because there is so much to do. 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.
Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Marrakech. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
A weekend in Athens or Marrakech?
People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
Marrakech is a great place to explore. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Five days in Athens or Marrakech?
People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marrakech. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Marrakech?
Athens is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural big city of Marrakech. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.
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 10-Day Tours in Morocco, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Morocco.
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Athens Prices
Greece PricesMarrakech Prices
Morocco Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayAthens €154Marrakech €78
The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €154, while the average daily cost in Marrakech is €78. 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 Athens and Marrakech in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personAthens €63Marrakech €40
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomAthens €126Marrakech €80
Compare Hotels in Athens and Marrakech
Looking for a hotel in Athens 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.
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: Athens Hotel Prices and Marrakech Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Athens €27Marrakech €12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:
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Airport Bus for Two€6.40
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Metro€1.50
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Metro€2.00
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Metro from Airport to City Center€8.00
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Taxi from Airport€35
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens
Also for Athens, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Vip Transfer From/To Piraeus Port - Athens Airport: $294
- Vip Transfer From/To Athens Center - Rafina Port : $235
- VIP VAN Athens Airport Transfer 1 - 8 persons: $153
- VIP VAN Athens Airport Transfer 1 - 4 persons: $96
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Athens APT-HTL (ATH): $63
- Transfers and Guided Tours in all over Greece, sightseeing and Private hire!!: $100
- Transfer services from/to Athens Airport: $113
- Transfer in Athens : $62
- Transfer from/to Piraeus Port and Athens city centre hotel: $46
- Transfer from Piraeus port to Athens Airport and Vice Versa 22:30PM - 06:29AM: $165
- Transfer from OR to Athens International Airport: $141
- Transfer from Athens/Pireaus/ATH Airport/Suburbs to Mati/Marathon/Nea Makri: $177
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech
Also for Marrakech, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Luxury Private Transfer from Marrakech to Meknes: $298
- Private Marrakech Transfer to Merzouga On Time, Every Time: $294
- Private Transfer From Marrakech To Tangier: $283
- Transfer Marrakech to Fes: $276
- Private Transfer from Safi to Casablanca (CMN) Airport: $274
- Essaouira Day Trip From Marrakech With Private Transfers: $271
- From Marrakech : Private Transfer to Fes : $260
- "Marrakech to Fes: Your Private Transfer for a Smooth Journey": $260
- Private transfer from marrakech to casablanca airport or center city: $258
- Private Transfer one way from/to Taghazout - Marrakesh: $250
- One Way transfer from Marrakech to Rabat : $250
- Comfortable Private Transfer from Marrakech to Fes: $240
Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Marrakech?
Prices for flights to both Marrakech and Athens 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
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Food Meals for one dayAthens €64Marrakech €25
Typical Food Prices in Athens
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:
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Ice cream€3.00
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Souvlaki€2.20
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens
For Athens, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
- Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
- No Diet Club - Unique local Food Tour in Athens!: $47
- Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $50
- "A Night in Dinner and Music Under the Stars": $57
- Cooking Class at Diamond Roof Garden: $58
- Authentic Athens Food Tour: $59
- Cooking Class at Diamond Roof Garden: $59
- Greek Street Food Tour: $62
- Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $64
- Signature Morning Walking Food Tour in Athens: $68
- Delicious food tour for families 15+ iconic Greek foods: $71
Typical Food Prices in Marrakech
For Marrakech, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
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Orange Juice on the Square€0.29
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Breakfast€1.15
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Dates€0.57
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Olives€0.86
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Sandwich€1.24
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Souvenir Spices€5.93
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech
For Marrakech, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Amazing Camel Ride & Romantic Dinner Agafay, Transfer - Marrakech: $5.00
- Chez Ali Fantasia Folklore Show With Oriental Dinner – Marrakesh: $5.00
- Traditional Moroccan Cooking Class, Lunch & Transfer - Marrakesh: $5.00
- Full-Day Essaouira City Tour, Cooking Class & Lunch - Marrakesh: $5.00
- Agafay Desert Sunset & Romantic Dinner with Transfers - Marrakesh: $5.00
- ATV Quad in Agafay desert, Dinner, Show & Camel Ride - Marrakesh: $5.00
- Agafay Desert Sunset & Romantic Dinner with Transfer – Marrakesh: $5.00
- Chez Ali Fantasia folklore Show & Oriental Dinner - Marrakesh: $5.00
- Romantic Sunset in Agafay Desert with Dinner : $5.00
- Chez Ali Fantasia Folklore Show & Oriental Dinner – Marrakesh: $5.87
- Marrakech :sunset dinner in agafay desert with show & camel Ride : $5.87
- Camel Ride at Marrakech Desert Agafy with Dinner: $11
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Athens €36Marrakech €9.42
Tours and Activities in Athens
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.
- Acropolis/Athens Highlights Private Evening Tour (5 hours) from Athens, Piraeus: $159
- Ancient Corinth Canal Epidaurus Nafplio Private Luxury Tour : $207
- Athenian Riviera Sunset Cruise with Swimming and Buffet: $124
- DISCOVER ATHENS IN 6HRS Private Tour BEST INTRODUCTION-FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS : $235
- Delphi full day V.R audio guided tour with entry ticket: $33
- Explore Loutraki Corinthia Region Semi Private Tour: $141
- Full Day Tour in Athens with Lunch: $171
- Meteora Full-Day Private Tour of Monasteries Scenic Landscapes: $281
- Mycenae Epidaurus Nafplio Isthmus Canal Private Luxury Tour : $206
- Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio Full-Day V.R audio guided Tour: $35
- Olive Oil Tasting Farm Experience, Corinth Canal, Nafplio: $187
- Private Luxury Tour: Athens Riviera & The Temple of Poseidon: $153
Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Marrakech's activities, tours, and tickets:
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Palace Tickets€1.91
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Golf at Atlas Golf€54
Tours and Activities in Marrakech
For Marrakech, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- 3 Days Desert Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga & Camel Trek : $117
- 3 Days Tour - Marrakech To Fez via Sahara Desert Erg chebbi: $222
- 3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Experience and Camel Trekking: $129
- 7-Day Morocco Tour from Marrakech: $68
- Agafay desert One Day Sightseeing tour by Quad: $247
- Atlas Mountains and Berber villages & Waterfalls Day Tour from Marrakech : $28
- Desert Thrills: Quad Biking Adventures in Palmeraie Marrakech: $53
- Experience Spa Hammam Massage and Camel tour: $112
- Experience the desert nomads in Marrakech!: $29
- From Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Tour & Boat Ride: $24
- Hot Air Balloon Adventure over Marrakesh and Atlas Mountains: $211
- Marrakech Destination Transport Experience: $23
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayAthens €23Marrakech €9.07
Sample the Local Flavors in Athens
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:
- Polykala Distillery: 128 years of history & liqueur tasting.: $16
- Saturday Night Pub Crawl for Professionals in Athens, Greece: $25
- Athens Party Pub Crawl with Unlimited Drinks & Club Access: $25
- Athens Party Pub Crawl with Unlimited Drinks & Nightclub Access: $26
- Athens Ultimate Bar Crawl: $35
- Athens Ultimate Bar Crawl: $40
- Wine Tasting in Rare Grape Varieties of Greece: $40
- Small-Group Rooftop & Offbeat Nightlife Gems Pub Crawl: $41
- Santorini Wine Tasting at Brettos Bar in Plaka: $45
- Greek Wine Tasting and Pairing in Chalandri : $47
- Acropolis Wine Tasting with Cheese and Olives: $57
- Greek Wine Tasting with Acropolis view: $58
Sample the Local Flavors in Marrakech
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Marrakech:
- Marrakech Nightlife Adventure: The Ultimate Pub Crawl: $24
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Marrakech, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Marrakech much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Athens 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Marrakech Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Athens or Marrakech?
Marrakech has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Athens. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.