A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belfast vs. Marseille for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Belfast or Marseille?

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

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

Belfast

Belfast is a authentic, affordable, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and shopping.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Belfast and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Belfast or Marseille?

You'll generally find more things to do in Marseille than Belfast. Marseille is bigger than Belfast, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Marseille is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Belfast is more popular for its big city activities. Marseille is more touristy than Belfast and is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. Also, Marseille is famous for The Vieux Port. Belfast is well known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

How is Belfast different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.


Is Belfast or Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Belfast or Marseille Better for Beaches?

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a beach destination.

Is Belfast or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic 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.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Marseille?

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Belfast or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Belfast
Marseille

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

Belfast does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Belfast or Marseille Better for Families?

Belfast
Marseille

Belfast is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

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 Belfast or Marseille Better for Couples?

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is a well-known place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Belfast or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city 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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Marseille Better for Students?

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is a well-known place for students. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.


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

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Marseille has a few public transit options. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Marseille a more walkable city?

Belfast
Marseille

Marseille is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

For even more information, also check out Is Belfast Worth Visiting? and Is Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Marseille?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Marseille than Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Marseille? Ideal Length of Stay
    Belfast 1-3 
    Marseille 2-3

One day in Belfast or Marseille?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the city of Belfast. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Belfast has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Marseille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Belfast or Marseille?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Belfast. 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.

In Marseille, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marseille has to offer.

Five days in Belfast or Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the authentic city of Belfast. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Marseille is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Belfast or Marseille?

Belfast is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Marseille. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Marseille or Belfast?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Belfast is £133, while the average daily cost in Marseille is £126. 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 Belfast and Marseille in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Belfast £68
    Marseille £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Belfast £136
    Marseille £122
Compare Hotels in Belfast and Marseille

Looking for a hotel in Belfast 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 Belfast


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: Belfast Hotel Prices and Marseille Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Belfast £14
    Marseille £24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Private Transfer from Dundonald to Belfast Airport (BFS): $94
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City to Belfast Airport (BFS): $84
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Tynan: $147
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Tempo: $241
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Tandragee: $122
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Sixmilecross : $193
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Rosslea: $214
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Rathfriland : $122
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Poyntzpass: $122
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Portavogie: $96
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Portadown: $122
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Newtownstewart: $172

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Marseille

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


  • Metro Pass
    £2.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marseille

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

  • Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal to Marseille - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Marseille to Marseille Provence Terminal Private Transfer: $34
  • Marseille Terminal to Marseille Airport Departure Transfer: $35
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to (MPCT) Marseille Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $35
  • Marseille Port (MPCT) to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer to Gare St Charles: $53
  • Private Airport Transfer in Marseille from Marseille Provence airport, Marignane: $65
  • Private Transfer: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) to Marseille: $69
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to Marseille- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $70
  • Private Transfer from Marseille Airport to Aix-en-Provence: $74
  • Marseille Airport transfers: $75
  • Private Transfer With an Electric Car in Marseille: $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Belfast or Marseille?

Prices for flights to both Marseille and Belfast 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
    Belfast £51
    Marseille £36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belfast

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Belfast.

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $81
  • Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

Typical Food Prices in Marseille

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


  • Orangina
    £2.14

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.
    Belfast £18
    Marseille £32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Belfast are as follows:


  • Movie Tickets
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in Belfast

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Belfast are as follows:

  • Belfast A Music and StreetArt Experience. Small Gr Walking Tour : $25
  • Belfast The Troubles cab tour Adventure 2hrs personal guide : $113
  • Historical Private Tour in Belfast : $76
  • 2 Hour Fungi Experience in Belfast: $62
  • 2 hour Private Political History & Murals Tour Belfast: $70
  • 2 hours Belfast Original Drivers The Troubles Black Taxi Tour: $92
  • 3 Hour extended Murals Tour: $101
  • A History of Terror - Belfast City Centre Walking Tour : $28
  • Antrim Coast Carrickfergus and Gobbins Cliff Experience: $437
  • Award winners Express 2 hrs Black Taxi tours and Mural Taxi Tour: $158
  • Belfast Black Taxi Tour of Murals and Peace Walls 2 hours: $114
  • Belfast Famous Black taxi political mural peace wall tour 2 hour: $125

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
    Belfast £7.86
    Marseille £23

Sample the Local Flavors in Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $15
  • Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
  • Explore & Taste: Distillery Tour at Titanic Distillers: $32
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $69
  • VIP Skip-the Line Titanic Museum and Distillery Tasting Tour: $119

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 comparing the travel costs between Belfast and Marseille, we can see that Belfast 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 Belfast Expensive? and Is Marseille Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Belfast or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Belfast. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Marseille in the Summer?

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

In July, Belfast is generally much colder than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 15°C (59°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in July than Marseille. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Belfast 15°C (59°F) 
    Marseille 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Marseille in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Marseille. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Belfast is much colder than Marseille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during autumn. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Belfast usually receives more rain than Marseille. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Belfast 9°C (48°F) 
    Marseille 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Marseille in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Belfast. In the winter, Belfast is much colder than Marseille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Belfast in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Marseille averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in January than Marseille. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Belfast 4°C (39°F) 
    Marseille 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Marseille in the Spring?

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

In April, Belfast is generally much colder than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 8°C (46°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

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

In April, Belfast usually receives around the same amount of rain as Marseille. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Belfast 8°C (46°F) 
    Marseille 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Marseille and Belfast

Belfast Marseille
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)