Which place is cheaper, Marbella or Ericeira?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Ericeira or Marbella?
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 Ericeira and Marbella can help you decide which place is right for you.
Where Should I go: Ericeira or Marbella?
Ericeira
Beneath an indigo sky, a city perches at the edge of sandstone cliffs that overlook the vast expanse of the Atlantic. A seaside resort and fishing community, Ericeira is located in western Portugal within the municipality of Mafra. A picturesque village, Ericeira is quaint, quiet, and absolutely breathtaking with a population of no more than 10,260. Because of its blue waters and pristine coastlines, it has been named the Surfing Mecca of Europe. The town was a famous summer retreat for the families of Lisbon during the 1940s and 1950s and still remains so today for families beyond Lisbon's borders. Ericeira also has a World Surfing Reserve, the first in Europe and second in the world. Besides the many beaches on Ericeira, including Ribeira d'Ilhas, Pescadores, and Mataduoro, the town also has a park called Parque de Santa Maria as well as an old town center that has a collection of cafes, shops, restaurants, and bars. There are also some important landmarks that can be explored as no more than a brief visit, such as Forte Mil Regos and Casa De Cultura Jaime Lobo E. Silvs. Whether you are a surfer, fisher, or simply a lover of the beach, Ericeira is the perfect place for those who wish to experience the Atlantic like never before.
Marbella
Marbella is a city in southern Spain in the province of Malaga. It is part of the Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun) and is located on the Mediterranean Sea between Malaga and the Strait of Gibraltar. It is one of the most important tourist cities in the area and receives many national and international tourists year round due to its climate and tourism structures. Marbella is a bit of a glamorous city due to its beauty and resort-type environment. The old town with its narrow cobbled streets and flower-filled plazas is packed with shops and art galleries selling boutique clothes and accessories, and handmade wares. The city has significant archaeological and historical heritage and many events and performances throughout the year.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Portugal, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Lisbon, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayEriceira €100Marbella €117
The average daily cost (per person) in Ericeira is €100, 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 Ericeira and Marbella in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personEriceira €51Marbella €61
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomEriceira €102Marbella €122
Compare Hotels in Ericeira and Marbella
Looking for a hotel in Ericeira 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.
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
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Ericeira €25Marbella €24
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ericeira
Also for Ericeira, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Transfer from Lisbon Airport to Ericeira: $91
- Transfer Privado de/para Aeroporto de Lisboa para Ericeira: $47
- Private Transfer To or From Ericeira: $91
- Lisbon: Private Transfer between the Airport & Ericeira Area: $75
- Lisbon Airport Private Transfer: $80
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: $234
- Private Transfer from Gaucín to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $222
- Private Transfer from Benaoján to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $213
- Private Transfer from Sabinillas to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $174
- Private Transfer from Manilva to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $174
- Private Transfer from Estepona to Malaga (AGP) airport: $154
- Private Transfer from Cancelada to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $135
- Private Transfer from La Quinta Golf Resort to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $131
- Private Transfer from Guadalmina to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $131
- Private Transfer from Benahavís to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $131
- Private Transfer from Atalaya Park to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $126
- Private Transfer from Torrox to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $120
Is it cheaper to fly into Ericeira or Marbella?
Prices for flights to both Marbella and Ericeira 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
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Food Meals for one dayEriceira €25Marbella €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: $86
- Gourmet Cooking Class & Culture in the rural Montes de Malaga.: $190
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Ericeira €26Marbella €19
Tours and Activities in Ericeira
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Ericeira.
- Custom-Tailored Immersive Photo Experiences: $48
- Ericeira Private Tour: Hidden Gastronomic Gems with lunch: $106
- Highlights & Culinary Kickstart of Ericeira | PRIVATE Tour: $71
- Lisbon: Wellington's Defensive Lines Tour: $384
Tours and Activities in Marbella
For Marbella, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- Taste of Marbella Food & Market Small Group Tour : $105
- 2 h Estepona Bay Tour: $47
- 2 hours Quad Tour in Marbella - 1 quad for 1/2 persons 160€: $174
- 3-Hour Private Guided Bicycle Tour in Marbella: $53
- Antequera Classic Winery Tour: $205
- 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
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayEriceira €17Marbella €5.71
Sample the Local Flavors in Ericeira
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Ericeira:
- Portuguese Wine Tasting - 4 Wines: $43
- Private Portuguese Wine Tasting - 4 Wines & Snacks: $61
Sample the Local Flavors in Marbella
Also in Marbella, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- E-Mountain Bike & Wine Tour from Marbella to Sierra Blanca: $108
- Manilva & Gaucin Wine Tour from the Costa del Sol: $151
- From Manilva Sunset Wine Tasting Tour with Tapas: $159
- Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella: $194
- From Antequera Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $212
- From Axarquia Wine Tour with Wine Pairing Lunch: $233
- Full-Day Private Ronda Wine Tour Experience from Marbella: $261
- VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting and Gourmet Lunch Experience with Winemaker: $271
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ericeira and Marbella, we can see that Marbella is more expensive. And not only is Ericeira much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ericeira would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ericeira 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 Marbella would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Marbella than you might in Ericeira.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ericeira Expensive? and Is Marbella Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Ericeira or Marbella?
Marbella has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Ericeira. When comparing the sizes of Ericeira 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.
When is the best time to visit Ericeira or Marbella?
Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.
Should I visit Ericeira or Marbella in the Summer?
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ericeira and Marbella. Furthermore, many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
In July, Ericeira is generally around the same temperature as Marbella. Daily temperatures in Ericeira average around 23°C (73°F), and Marbella fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In Ericeira, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ericeira usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella during summer. Ericeira gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Ericeira usually receives more rain than Marbella. Ericeira gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyEriceira 23°C (73°F)Marbella 25°C (77°F)
Should I visit Ericeira or Marbella in the Autumn?
The autumn brings many poeple to Ericeira as well as Marbella. Additionally, many visitors come to Marbella in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
Ericeira is around the same temperature as Marbella in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ericeira averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Marbella fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ericeira this time of the year. In the autumn, Ericeira often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella. Ericeira gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 213 hours of full sun.
Ericeira usually gets more rain in October than Marbella. Ericeira gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberEriceira 19°C (66°F)Marbella 19°C (67°F)
Should I visit Ericeira or Marbella in the Winter?
Both Marbella and Ericeira are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.
In the winter, Ericeira is around the same temperature as Marbella. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ericeira in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Marbella averages at about 12°C (54°F).
Ericeira usually receives less sunshine than Marbella during winter. Ericeira gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.
It's quite rainy in Ericeira. In January, Ericeira usually receives more rain than Marbella. Ericeira gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryEriceira 12°C (53°F)Marbella 12°C (54°F)
Should I visit Ericeira or Marbella in the Spring?
Both Marbella and Ericeira during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches and the natural beauty.
In April, Ericeira is generally around the same temperature as Marbella. Daily temperatures in Ericeira average around 16°C (60°F), and Marbella fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).
In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ericeira. In the spring, Ericeira often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella. Ericeira gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 220 hours of full sun.
Ericeira usually gets more rain in April than Marbella. Ericeira gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilEriceira 16°C (60°F)Marbella 16°C (60°F)
Typical Weather for Marbella and Ericeira
| Ericeira | Marbella | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 12°C (53°F) | 110 mm (4.3 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 83 mm (3.3 in) |
| Feb | 13°C (55°F) | 111 mm (4.4 in) | 13°C (55°F) | 75 mm (3 in) |
| Mar | 14°C (58°F) | 69 mm (2.7 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) |
| Apr | 16°C (60°F) | 64 mm (2.5 in) | 16°C (60°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) |
| May | 18°C (64°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 24 mm (0.9 in) |
| Jun | 21°C (69°F) | 21 mm (0.8 in) | 22°C (72°F) | 13 mm (0.5 in) |
| Jul | 23°C (73°F) | 5 mm (0.2 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 2 mm (0.1 in) |
| Aug | 23°C (74°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) | 25°C (78°F) | 5 mm (0.2 in) |
| Sep | 22°C (72°F) | 26 mm (1 in) | 23°C (74°F) | 15 mm (0.6 in) |
| Oct | 19°C (66°F) | 80 mm (3.1 in) | 19°C (67°F) | 54 mm (2.1 in) |
| Nov | 15°C (59°F) | 114 mm (4.5 in) | 15°C (60°F) | 115 mm (4.5 in) |
| Dec | 12°C (54°F) | 108 mm (4.3 in) | 13°C (55°F) | 102 mm (4 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.