A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Marrakech for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hong Kong or Marrakech?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Marrakech, 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.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan, glamorous, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Marrakech

Marrakech is a cultural, high-energy, and fascinating city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong and Marrakech: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Hong Kong or Marrakech?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Marrakech than Hong Kong. While Hong Kong is larger than Marrakech, Marrakech has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Marrakech is more popular for its historical sights, while Hong Kong is known for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Marrakech is more touristy than Hong Kong and is known for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. It is also home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Hong Kong is popular for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum.

How is Hong Kong different from Marrakech?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Marrakech?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Hong Kong and Marrakech.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Marrakech. 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 Hong Kong or Marrakech? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Hong Kong is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Marrakech makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Hong Kong or Marrakech Better for Nightlife?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

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

Hong Kong has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

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 Hong Kong or Marrakech Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

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

Hong Kong is considered a top beach destination. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Marrakech is not a beach destination.


Is Hong Kong or Marrakech Better for its Old Town?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Marrakech is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Marrakech offers plenty to see. 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.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Marrakech Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Hong Kong is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marrakech is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Marrakech is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Marrakech?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Hong Kong and Marrakech.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Marrakech is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.


Is Hong Kong or Marrakech Better for Families?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hong Kong is a very family-friendly destination. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

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 Hong Kong or Marrakech Better for Couples?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Hong Kong and Marrakech are both fantastic to visit as a couple.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Marrakech is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Is Hong Kong or Marrakech Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Marrakech is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Marrakech is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.


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

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.

Visitors in Hong Kong can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

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 Hong Kong or Marrakech a more walkable city?

Hong Kong
Marrakech

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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 Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marrakech or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Marrakech?

Both Hong Kong and Marrakech have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Hong Kong has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hong Kong than Marrakech. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hong Kong than Marrakech 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 Hong Kong.


  • How many days in Hong Kong or Marrakech? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hong Kong 3-7 
    Marrakech 3-7

One day in Hong Kong or Marrakech?

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Marrakech. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.


A weekend in Hong Kong or Marrakech?

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating big city of Marrakech. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Marrakech?

People visit Hong Kong because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and food around the high-energy city of Marrakech. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Hong Kong or Marrakech?

Hong Kong is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hong Kong, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Marrakech is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marrakech, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Marrakech or Hong Kong?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hong Kong is $160, 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 Hong Kong and Marrakech in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hong Kong $75
    Marrakech $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hong Kong $150
    Marrakech $92
Compare Hotels in Hong Kong and Marrakech

Looking for a hotel in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong


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: Hong Kong Hotel Prices and Marrakech Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hong Kong $8.72
    Marrakech $6.29
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech

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

  • transfer from Marrakech to Fez Airport or city: $232
  • private transfer from Marrakech city to Menara Airport: $11
  • airport transfers: $22
  • Try find your better than us!Airport transfer service in Marrakesh HTL-APT (RAK): $11
  • Try find your better than us!Airport transfer service in Marrakesh APT-HTL (RAK): $11
  • Transfert Departure Marrakech City to Casablanca Airport: $265
  • Transfert Airport Marrakesh: $33
  • Transfers Marrakech to Essaouira or Essaouira to Marrakech: $67
  • Transfers Marrakech Airport : $127
  • Transfer from Marrakech to Imlil: Airport Transfer to Imlil - Taxi to Imlil: $66
  • Transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca airport: $28
  • Transfer from Marrakech to Agadir or from agadir to marrakech: $165

Is it cheaper to fly into Hong Kong or Marrakech?

Prices for flights to both Marrakech and Hong Kong 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
    Hong Kong $33
    Marrakech $13
Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

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


  • Dinner for 2
    $12

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
    $0.90
  • Sandwich
    $1.29
  • Souvenir Spices
    $6.17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech

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

  • Dinner In Agafay Desert & Camel Ride with lovely Sunset : $12
  • Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride and Dinner from Marrakech: $15
  • Cooking Lesson at the Ouirgane Ecolodge with Lunch: $19
  • Typical Moroccan Dinner at the inhabitant in Marrakech: $22
  • Marrakesh: Agafay desert Sunset tour with dinner show : $22
  • Magical Dinner in Marrakech Desert with Camel ride at the sunset : $22
  • Sunset in Agafay: Dinner, Camel, Quad-Book Adventure with Viator: $22
  • Magical dinner and camel ride on sunset in Desert Marrakech : $23
  • Magical Dinner In Agafay Desert and Sunset Experience: $24
  • Marical dinner and camel ride at sunset in Desert of Marrakech: $24
  • Marrakech Desert Tour with Camel Ride and Dinner Show : $26
  • Berber Dinner In Marrakech Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride : $27

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hong Kong $95
    Marrakech $6.99
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

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


  • Peak Tram
    $7.67
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

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:

  • 3 Day Private Desert Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga Dunes With Camel Trek: $275
  • 3 Days Tour - Marrakech To Fez via Sahara Desert Erg chebbi: $208
  • 4 Days Small Group Tour from Marrakech To Merzouga: $187
  • Agafay Desert: Three Valley Guided Tour From Marrakech : $21
  • Atlas Mountains &Berber family & berber village experience : $94
  • Atlas Mountains Horseback Ride Day Tour From Marrakech : $50
  • Atlas Mountains and Berber villages & Waterfalls Day Tour from Marrakech : $25
  • Best Marrakech Private walking tour: $30
  • Desert Agafay & Berber Villages Day Tour From Marrakech including Camel Ride: $50
  • Desert tour small group : $176
  • Experience Spa Hammam Massage and Camel tour: $84
  • Full Day Guided Tour in Ouzoud Waterfalls : $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hong Kong $21
    Marrakech $15


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


Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Marrakech?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Marrakech. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong 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.