A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Delphi vs. Marbella for Couples, Families, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Delphi or Marbella?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Delphi or Marbella, 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.

Delphi

Delphi is a fascinating, world-renowned, and historic archeological site. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Marbella

Marbella is a high energy, ritzy, and glamorous resort town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Delphi and Marbella: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Temple of Apollo
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Delphi or Marbella?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Marbella than Delphi. While Delphi is larger than Marbella, Marbella has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Delphi is known for its museums. Delphi is more touristy than Marbella and is known for its world renowned archeological ruins and its connection to Greek mythology. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also home to Plaza de los Naranjos.

How is Delphi different from Marbella?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Delphi or Marbella?

Delphi
Marbella

Delphi is very popular for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Delphi are world-renowned. This is one of the most popular archeological sites in Greece. You will find the Temple of Apollo and most of the monuments are dedicated to this God. There is an Ancient Theatre, an Ancient Stadium, as well as an Archaeological Museum. There's also the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea and the Treasury of the Athenians.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Delphi or Marbella? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Delphi
Marbella

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Delphi and Marbella.

Delphi is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurant options in the area, some of them offering spectacular views. There are traditional Greek restaurants as well as modern cafes with international cuisine. You'll find all of the standard Greek staples such as gyros, lamb chops, and seafood.

Marbella offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

Is Delphi or Marbella Better for Nightlife?

Delphi
Marbella

Marbella is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Delphi is not a good destination for nightlife.

Marbella is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. European tourists flock to the town for its beaches and resorts. The town has a glamorous nightlife scene with exclusive clubs and ritzy cocktail bars, particularly in Puerto Banus and along the Golden Mile.

People don't go to Delphi for the nightlife. This is a quiet town that shuts down in the evening. If you're looking for more of a nightlife scene, head to nearby Arachova, which is just a 10 minute drive away.

Is Delphi or Marbella Better for Music?

Delphi
Marbella

Marbella is great for its music scene. However, Delphi is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Marbella draws a good crowd. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Delphi is not a live music destination.


Is Delphi or Marbella Better for Resorts?

Delphi
Marbella

Marbella is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Delphi is not a resort destination.

Marbella offers an unforgettable resort vacation. From luxury to family-friendly, this area has plenty of resorts to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano Marbella, and Don Carlos Resort and Spa.

Delphi is not a resort destination.

Is Delphi or Marbella Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Delphi
Marbella

Marbella is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Delphi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Marbella specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There are more than 100 dive sights and endless snorkeling opportunities in the area. There are deep offshore reefs that you can explore as well as shallower wrecks and caves.

Delphi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Delphi or Marbella Better for Beaches?

Delphi
Marbella

Marbella is renowned for the beach. However, Delphi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Marbella are among the best in the world. The area boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. They are hubs of activity with lots of energy, and there are more than 18 miles of sandy beach in the area. Popular options include Guadalmina Beach, San Pedro de Alcántara Beach, and Nueva Andalucía Beach.

Delphi is not a beach destination.


Is Delphi or Marbella Better for its Old Town?

Delphi
Marbella

Marbella is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Delphi does not have a historic old town.

Marbella has an old town worth visiting. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Delphi does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Delphi or Marbella?

Delphi
Marbella

Marbella is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Marbella specifically to go shopping. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Delphi or Marbella Better for Families?

Delphi
Marbella

Marbella is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Marbella. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Delphi is a family-friendly place to visit. The archeological ruins are world class, and kids who enjoy mythology and history will love this place. It's the perfect place for kids to let their imagination run wild.


Is Delphi or Marbella Better for Couples?

Delphi
Marbella

Marbella is renowned for couples. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for romance.

Marbella has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon.

Delphi is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination that is a great addition to any couple's itinerary to Greece.

Is Delphi or Marbella Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Delphi
Marbella

For backpackers, both Delphi and Marbella are good places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Delphi. There's a hostel or two in the area, and the prices are reasonable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Marbella is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels in the area for backpackers who want to enjoy this part of Spain's cost. There's also a lively nightlife scene and plenty of opportunities to meet others.

Is Delphi or Marbella Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Delphi
Marbella

Delphi is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Delphi has some public transit options. There are buses that travel to Delphi from Greece.

Public transit is generally limited in Marbella. There is a bus system through the area, but most visitors prefer to get around by car.


Is Delphi or Marbella a more walkable city?

Delphi
Marbella

Delphi and Marbella are superb when it comes to walkability.

Delphi is a very walkable destination. Both the museum are archeological site are within walking distance of the town. The town is also small enough to explore on foot.

Marbella is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable and there are a number of hotels and nice resorts within a short walk of the town along a nice promenade.

For even more information, also check out Is Delphi Worth Visiting? and Is Marbella Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marbella or Delphi?

How long in Delphi or Marbella?

In either Delphi or Marbella, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Marbella than Delphi because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Delphi, and 2-5 days is enough time in Marbella.

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

Couples should spend more time in Marbella than Delphi. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Marbella that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Marbella than Delphi 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 Marbella.


  • How many days in Delphi or Marbella? Ideal Length of Stay
    Delphi 1-2 
    Marbella 2-5

One day in Delphi or Marbella?

The beautiful archeological site of Delphi offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Marbella. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Delphi or Marbella?

Delphi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this archeological site makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Delphi, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Marbella is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Delphi or Marbella?

Delphi is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marbella. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Delphi or Marbella?

Delphi is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archeological site offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the high energy destination of Marbella. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Marbella or Delphi?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Delphi is €102, while the average daily cost in Marbella is €117. 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 Delphi and Marbella in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Delphi 59
    Marbella 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Delphi 118
    Marbella 122
Compare Hotels in Delphi and Marbella

Looking for a hotel in Delphi or Marbella? 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 Delphi


Hotels in Marbella


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: Marbella Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Delphi 8.57
    Marbella 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marbella

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

  • From Malaga: Private Transfer Malaga Airport to Marbella: $235
  • Private Transfer from Gaucín to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $223
  • Private Transfer from Benaoján to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $214
  • Private Transfer from La Alcaidesa to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $205
  • Private Transfer from Manilva to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $175
  • Private Transfer from Sabinillas to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Estepona to Malaga (AGP) airport: $155
  • Private Transfer from Cómpeta to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $138
  • Private Transfer from El Paraíso to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $135
  • Private Transfer from San Pedro de Alcántara to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Istán to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from La Quinta Golf Resort to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132

Is it cheaper to fly into Delphi or Marbella?

Prices for flights to both Marbella and Delphi 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
    Delphi 36
    Marbella 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marbella

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

  • Food Tour: $87
  • The Mediterranean Diet & Lifestyle Cooking Class.: $180
  • Gourmet Cooking Class & Culture in the rural Montes de Malaga.: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Delphi 11
    Marbella 19

Tours and Activities in Delphi

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

  • Delphi Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Athens to Delphi and Arachova Full day Tour: $856
  • Athens: Mythology of Delphi and Museum Guided Day Tour: $26
  • Delphi Audiovisual Self-guided Tour with 3D Representations: $7.59
  • Delphi Guided Walking Tour and Admission Ticket: $107
  • Delphi Navel Of Earth Hosios Loukas Full Day Private Tour: $182
  • Delphi Private Tour with Tickets&Lunch: $182
  • Delphi Skip-The-Line Private Tour with Licensed Guide & Admission: $143
  • Delphi Tour: $396
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Refundable Ticket with Audio: $18
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Guide: $16
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Marbella

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

  • 2 h Estepona Bay Tour: $47
  • 2 hours Quad Tour in Marbella - 1 quad for 1/2 persons 160€: $175
  • Antequera Classic Winery Tour: $206
  • Authentic Andalusia - Jeep Eco Tour (pick up from Marbella - Estepona) : $98
  • Bike City Tour Marbella: $32
  • Buggy Adventure with Incredible Views of the Sea and the Reservoir: $109
  • Caminito del Rey and Ardales Guided Tour from Costa del Sol: $75
  • Canyoning Experience Near Marbella (Benahavís River Walk): $43
  • Discover Marbella's Old Town with five-star private tour: $97
  • Dolphin Watching Adventure in Estepona Bay: $38
  • Dolphin Watching Tour on Sailboat in Marbella: $71
  • E-Bike Tour through Marbella/ Puerto Banús and San Pedro: $101

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Delphi 13
    Marbella 5.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Marbella

Also in Marbella, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Manilva & Gaucin Wine Tour from the Costa del Sol: $152
  • From Manilva Sunset Wine Tasting Tour with Tapas: $159
  • Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella: $195
  • From Antequera Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $213
  • From Axarquia Wine Tour with Wine Pairing Lunch: $234
  • Full-Day Private Ronda Wine Tour Experience from Marbella: $262
  • VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting and Gourmet Lunch Experience with Winemaker: $272


When comparing the travel costs between Delphi and Marbella, we can see that Marbella 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 Delphi Expensive? and Is Marbella Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Delphi or Marbella?

Delphi has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Delphi and Marbella, 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.