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

Should you visit Basel or Marseille?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel 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.

Basel

Basel is a easily accessible, beautiful, and vibrant city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. 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. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Basel and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Marseille?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marseille than Basel, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Marseille is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Basel is known for its museums. Marseille is more touristy than Basel and is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. It is also home to The Vieux Port. Basel is popular for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Basel different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Basel 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 Basel can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marseille is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Basel or Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Marseille is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Marseille just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Basel or Marseille Better for Beaches?

Marseille is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Basel 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.

Basel is not a beach destination.

Is Basel or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Marseille is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Marseille is revered around the world. 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.

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Marseille?

Both Basel and Marseille are superb shopping destinations.

Basel is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Marseille. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Is Basel or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Basel 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.

Basel does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Basel or Marseille Better for Families?

Basel 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 Basel. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

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 Basel or Marseille Better for Couples?

Marseille is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Marseille is a very popular place to visit for couples. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Basel and Marseille are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Marseille is a good city to visit for backpackers. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Is Basel or Marseille Better for Students?

Basel and Marseille are both superb destinations for students and younger travelers.

Basel is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Students come from all over to stay in Marseille. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

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

Basel is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Basel can get you to most places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Marseille, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Is Basel or Marseille a more walkable city?

Basel is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Basel. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Marseille is very walkable. 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 Basel Worth Visiting? and Is Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Basel?

How long in Basel or Marseille?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Marseille than Basel. 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 Basel 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 Basel or Marseille?

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

In Marseille, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this energetic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Basel or Marseille?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Basel. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Basel or Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the museum-filled city of Basel. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Marseille. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Basel or Marseille?

Basel 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the energetic destination of Marseille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Basel or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Basel 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 Basel 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 Basel or Marseille in the Summer?

Both Marseille and Basel during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Basel because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

In the summer, Basel is cooler than Marseille. Typically, the summer temperatures in Basel in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Marseille averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Basel. In the summer, Basel often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in July than Marseille. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Marseille in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Marseille. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Basel is generally cooler than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 13°C (56°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. Basel usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during autumn. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Basel usually receives less rain than Marseille. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Basel or Marseille in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Basel as well as Marseille. Many travelers come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Marseille in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Basel. Basel is much colder than Marseille in the winter. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Marseille fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Basel often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in January than Marseille. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Marseille in the Spring?

Both Marseille and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Basel in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Marseille for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Basel is cooler than Marseille. Typically, the spring temperatures in Basel in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Marseille averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. Basel usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during spring. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Basel usually receives more rain than Marseille. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marseille and Basel