A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brisbane vs. Marrakech for Couples, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Brisbane or Marrakech?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Brisbane and Marrakech can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a active, relaxed, and diverse coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

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, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Brisbane and Marrakech: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Brisbane or Marrakech?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marrakech. Although Brisbane and Marrakech are popular destinations, Marrakech has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marrakech is very popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Brisbane attracts visitors for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Marrakech is more touristy than Brisbane and is known for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. It is also well known for Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Brisbane is famous for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas.

How is Brisbane different from Marrakech?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brisbane or Marrakech?

Brisbane
Marrakech

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Marrakech and Brisbane.

Many visitors head to Brisbane specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Marrakech can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Brisbane or Marrakech? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Marrakech is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Marrakech has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Brisbane or Marrakech Better for Nightlife?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Brisbane is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Brisbane has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

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 Brisbane or Marrakech Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Brisbane is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Marrakech is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Brisbane has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Marrakech is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Brisbane or Marrakech Better for Beaches?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Brisbane is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Marrakech is not a beach destination.

Brisbane is considered a top beach destination. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Marrakech is not a beach destination.

Is Brisbane or Marrakech Better for its Old Town?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Marrakech is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

Marrakech offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

Is Brisbane or Marrakech Better for Hiking?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Brisbane is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Marrakech is not a hiking destination.

Brisbane is a good destination for hiking. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Marrakech is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Brisbane or Marrakech?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Marrakech is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal 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.

Brisbane is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Is Brisbane or Marrakech Better for Families?

Brisbane
Marrakech

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Brisbane or Marrakech.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brisbane. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

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 Brisbane or Marrakech Better for Couples?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Marrakech is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Marrakech has plenty to offer. 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.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.


Is Brisbane or Marrakech Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Marrakech is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Marrakech, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Is Brisbane or Marrakech Better for Students?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Brisbane is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marrakech is not popular with students.

Brisbane is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Marrakech is not popular with students.

Is Brisbane or Marrakech Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Brisbane is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.

Brisbane has some public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marrakech. While there are local buses, most people take taxis around town when they can't walk. Taxis are affordable and convenient.


Is Brisbane or Marrakech a more walkable city?

Brisbane
Marrakech

Brisbane and Marrakech are great when it comes to walkability.

Brisbane is a very walkable destination. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

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 Brisbane Worth Visiting? and Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marrakech or Brisbane?

How long in Brisbane or Marrakech?

Both Brisbane and Marrakech have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marrakech than in Brisbane. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Brisbane, and 3-7 days is enough time in Marrakech.

Couples should spend more time in Marrakech than Brisbane. 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 Marrakech than Brisbane 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 Marrakech.


  • How many days in Brisbane or Marrakech? Ideal Length of Stay
    Brisbane 2-3 
    Marrakech 3-7

One day in Brisbane or Marrakech?

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Brisbane. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Marrakech 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.

A weekend in Brisbane or Marrakech?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxed destination of Brisbane. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Marrakech 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.


Five days in Brisbane or Marrakech?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the diverse coastal city of Brisbane. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Marrakech is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marrakech, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brisbane or Marrakech?

Brisbane is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Marrakech is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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 Marrakech has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Morocco.


Which place is cheaper, Marrakech or Brisbane?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Brisbane is $133, while the average daily cost in Marrakech is $68. 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 Brisbane and Marrakech in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brisbane $82
    Marrakech $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brisbane $164
    Marrakech $92
Compare Hotels in Brisbane and Marrakech

Looking for a hotel in Brisbane 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.

Hotels in Brisbane


Hotels in Marrakech


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: Brisbane Hotel Prices and Marrakech Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brisbane $18
    Marrakech $6.28
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brisbane

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


  • Airtrain to the City
    $9.91
  • Go Card
    $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brisbane

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

  • Sunshine Coast Airport Arrival transfer to Hotels: $18
  • Sirromet Winery 3 Course Lunch, Tour, Tastings and Transfers: $132
  • Private Transfer: Cruise Port to Brisbane Airport BNE or Brisbane City: $91
  • Private Transfer: Cruise Port to Brisbane Airport BNE or Brisbane City: $123
  • Private Transfer: Brisbane Airport BNE or Brisbane City to Cruise Port: $91
  • Private Transfer to Gold Coast /OOL Airport from Brisbane /BNE Airport (1-7 Pax): $228
  • Private Transfer from Brisbane Port to Brisbane Airport (BNE): $33
  • Private Transfer from Brisbane Hotels to Brisbane Cruise Port: $33
  • Private Transfer from Brisbane Cruise Port to Brisbane: $33
  • Private Transfer from Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Brisbane Port: $33
  • Private Transfer between Brisbane/BNE Airport -Gold Coast / OOL Airport(1-11Pax): $297
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Brisbane Airport to Hotel: $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech

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

  • Private Transfer From Marrakech To Fez: $446
  • One way transfer from Fes to Marrakech: $362
  • Private Transfer between Marrakech and Casablanca: $311
  • City to City Transfer - Marrakesh > Merzouga: $300
  • Agadir private transfer from Ouirgane to Agadir airport (AGA): $290
  • Transfer Marrakech to Tangier: $286
  • Private Premium Transfert From / To Marrakech To / From Tangier: $284
  • Private Transfer From Casablanca to Marrakesh: $279
  • Transfert Departure Marrakech City to Casablanca Airport: $265
  • Private Transfer from Marrakech Menara (RAK) Airport to Taroudant: $255
  • Essaouira Day Trip From Marrakech With Private Transfers: $253
  • Private Premium Transfert From / To Marrakech To / From Meknes: $250

Is it cheaper to fly into Brisbane or Marrakech?

Prices for flights to both Marrakech and Brisbane 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
    Brisbane $31
    Marrakech $13
Typical Food Prices in Brisbane

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Brisbane:


  • Hamburger Lunch
    $5.28
  • Cup of Coffee
    $1.98
  • Chinese Food Lunch
    $8.26
  • Ice cream
    $3.63
  • Japanese Meal
    $14
  • Smoothie
    $4.29
  • Japanese Soup
    $7.60
  • Coffee & Muffin
    $4.62
  • Morning Mint Tea
    $2.31
  • Veggie Burger & Chips
    $9.25
  • Bread
    $1.72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brisbane

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

  • Vertigo Dinner: Dining on the edge!: $165

Typical Food Prices in Marrakech

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


  • Orange Juice on the Square
    $0.30
  • Breakfast
    $1.19
  • Dates
    $0.60
  • Olives
    $0.89
  • Sandwich
    $1.29
  • Souvenir Spices
    $6.16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech

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

  • Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride and Dinner from Marrakech: $15
  • Cooking Lesson at the Ouirgane Ecolodge with Lunch: $19
  • Dinner in Agafay desert from Marrakech & camel riding: $19
  • Restaurant Dinner Experience with Hotel Pickup: $21
  • Dinner and show in Desert Agafay with Quad bike & Camel ride: $22
  • Sunset in Agafay: Dinner, Camel, Quad-Book Adventure with Viator: $22
  • Agafay desert Sunset Camel ride with Dinner Show: $23
  • Magical Dinner & Agafay Desert ,Under The Stars: $24
  • Marrakech Amazing Dinner Show in Agafay Desert, Sunset Camel Ride: $24
  • Dinner Experience in a Moroccan Restaurant with transfer: $24
  • Moroccan Cooking Class with a Local Chef: $24
  • From Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner with Live Show: $25

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brisbane $24
    Marrakech $6.99
Typical Entertainment Prices in Brisbane

For Brisbane, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Concert Tickets
    $13

Tours and Activities in Brisbane

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Brisbane.

  • 1hr Animal Tour: $43
  • 2hr Animal Tour: $73
  • 3-Hour Walking Tour in Brisbane: $56
  • 45-Minute Behind-the-Tanks Tour on North Stradbroke Island: $32
  • 90min Brisbane River Cruise/Tour: $35
  • Adventure Moreton Island Day Pass: $85
  • All-Inclusive Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise Brisbane: $131
  • Barefoot Luxury Mount Tamborine Winery Tour from Brisbane: $178
  • Bellthorpe Rainforest Private Tour: $132
  • Brisbane : Must See Attractions Private Walking Tour: $87
  • Brisbane City Botanic Gardens Audio Tour FREE Ticket: $15
  • Brisbane City Highlights Sightseeing Tour: $116

Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Marrakech's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Palace Tickets
    $1.99
  • Golf at Atlas Golf
    $56

Tours and Activities in Marrakech

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

  • 10 Hours tour from marrakech to ouarzazate: $44
  • 3 Day Private Desert Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga Dunes With Camel Trek: $274
  • 3 Days Tour - Marrakech To Fez via Sahara Desert Erg chebbi: $207
  • Agafay Desert: Three Valley Guided Tour From Marrakech : $21
  • Atlas Mountains &Berber family & berber village experience : $90
  • Atlas Mountains Horseback Ride Day Tour From Marrakech : $50
  • Atlas Mountains, Berber Villages & Waterfall Tour: $25
  • Best Marrakech Private walking tour: $44
  • Desert Agafay & Berber Villages Day Tour From Marrakech including Camel Ride: $49
  • Desert Thrills: Quad Biking Adventures in Palmeraie Marrakech: $44
  • Desert tour small group with luxury tent: $98
  • Experience Moroccan Hammam and Massage: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brisbane $51
    Marrakech $15
Typical Alcohol Prices in Brisbane

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Brisbane:


  • Evening at the Bar
    $9.91
  • Sixpack of Beer
    $9.25
  • Guiness Beer
    $5.61
  • Sixpack of Beer
    $8.58

Sample the Local Flavors in Brisbane

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

  • XXXX Brewery Tour: $24
  • XXXX Beer Brewery Tour & Beer Tasting: $24
  • City Winery Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $50
  • Artisinal Wine Tasting and Local 2-Course Meal: $50
  • River Cruise Brewery Tour with Drinks: $65
  • Wine tasting tour to Tamborine Mountain: $104
  • Half Day Gold Coast Brewery Tour: $107
  • Tamborine Wine & Distillery Tour + 2 Course Lunch: $126
  • Brisbane Brewery Full Day Tour with Lunch: $131
  • Mount Tamborine Wine Tasting Tour from Brisbane or the Gold Coast: $132
  • From Mount Tamborine Wine Tour with Gourmet Lunch: $132
  • Gold Coast Full Day Brewery Tour: $134


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brisbane and Marrakech, we can see that Brisbane is more expensive. And not only is Marrakech much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Brisbane is in Pacific 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 Brisbane would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brisbane 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 Brisbane Expensive? and Is Marrakech Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Brisbane or Marrakech?

Brisbane has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Marrakech. When comparing the sizes of Brisbane 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.