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

Should you visit Catania or Marseille?

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 Catania and Marseille can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a lively, youthful, and fun port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Catania and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Marseille?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Catania than Marseille. While Marseille is larger than Catania, Catania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Catania is more popular for its museums, hiking, and big city activities, while Marseille is known for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Catania is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna. Marseille is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Catania different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Catania is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Catania and Marseille offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

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.

Is Catania or Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Marseille is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

Marseille is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Catania has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Is Catania or Marseille Better for Beaches?

Catania and Marseille are good choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Catania to enjoy the beach. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

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.

Is Catania or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Marseille is very popular for its old town. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Marseille has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Is Catania or Marseille Better for Hiking?

Catania is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Catania. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Marseille?

Marseille is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

Marseille is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Is Catania or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is very good for its Christmas markets. However, Catania does not offer Christmas markets.

Marseille offers some nice Christmas markets. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Catania does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Catania or Marseille Better for Families?

Catania 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 Catania. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

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 Catania or Marseille Better for Couples?

Marseille is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Catania or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

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

Is Catania or Marseille Better for Students?

Catania and Marseille are both excellent destinations for students and younger travelers.

Catania is very popular with students. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Marseille is a great port city to visit as a student. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

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

Catania 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 Catania can get you to most places easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

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 Catania or Marseille a more walkable city?

Catania and Marseille both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Catania is a very walkable port city. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

Marseille is a very walkable destination. 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 Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Catania?

How long in Catania or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Catania and Marseille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marseille than in Catania. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Catania, and 2-3 days is enough time in Marseille.

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

Couples should spend more time in Marseille than Catania. 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 Catania than Marseille 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 Catania.

One day in Catania or Marseille?

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Catania. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Catania 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 Catania or Marseille?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port 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 Catania or Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively port city of Catania. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the food. 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 Catania or Marseille?

Catania is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Catania or Marseille?

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

Both Marseille and Catania during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Marseille for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Catania is around the same temperature as Marseille. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°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 Catania. In the summer, Catania often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in July than Marseille. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Marseille in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Marseille. Many travelers come to Catania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Marseille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Catania is generally a little warmer than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. Catania usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during autumn. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Catania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Catania usually receives more rain than Marseille. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Catania or Marseille in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Catania as well as Marseille. Many visitors come to Catania in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Catania is much warmer than Marseille in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Marseille fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marseille. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets more rain in January than Marseille. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Marseille in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Catania is around the same temperature as Marseille. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Marseille averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during spring. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Catania usually receives less rain than Marseille. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marseille and Catania