A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Marrakech for Attractions, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Marrakech. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a dramatic, historic, and spiritual destination. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Marrakech: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Marrakech. Although Kalampaka (Meteora) and Marrakech are both popular with visitors, Marrakech has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Marrakech is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Kalampaka (Meteora) is known for its museums. Marrakech is more touristy than Kalampaka (Meteora) and is known for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. It is also home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Kalampaka (Meteora) is popular for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Marrakech?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Kalampaka (Meteora) is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kalampaka (Meteora) has many famous sights for visitors. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

Many visitors head to Marrakech specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Marrakech is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Marrakech has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kalampaka (Meteora) area. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Marrakech is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Marrakech. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech Better for its Old Town?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Marrakech is terrific for its old town. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

Marrakech has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Marrakech is terrific for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Marrakech draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Marrakech is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Marrakech is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Marrakech is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Marrakech is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good destination for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Marrakech is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Marrakech

Marrakech is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Marrakech is a very walkable city. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.


For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marrakech or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kalampaka (Meteora), and 3-7 days is enough time in Marrakech.

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

Couples should spend more time in Marrakech than Kalampaka (Meteora). 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3 
    Marrakech 3-7

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

You'll find food and museums around the destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). 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.

Each neighborhood in Marrakech has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the shopping. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

You'll find museums and food around the spiritual destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this destination has to offer. This destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Marrakech for a weekend. Lots of people come for the shopping. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the dramatic destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Marrakech has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marrakech, five days is sufficent for most.


A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Each neighborhood in Marrakech has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This city offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marrakech has to offer.


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


Which place is cheaper, Marrakech or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, while the average daily cost in Marrakech is €64. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Marrakech in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Marrakech 43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Marrakech 86
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Marrakech

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


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: Marrakech Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Marrakech 5.91

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $274
  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech

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

  • transfers from Marrakech to Fez (Airport or city/Door to Door): $231
  • transfer from Marrakech to Fez Airport or city: $231
  • Transfert privé vers ou depuis RAK aéroport: $13
  • Transfert de l'aéroport de Marrakech à la ville: $22
  • Transfert Privée Aéroport Marrakech vers Essaouira : $98
  • Transfert Departure Marrakech City to Casablanca Airport: $265
  • Transfert Aeroport Marrakech Votre Porte a marrakech: $13
  • Transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca airport: $27
  • Transfer from Marrakech to Casa-Airport or Casa-Airport to Marrakech: $152
  • Transfer from Marrakech to Agadir or from agadir to marrakech: $164
  • Transfer from Marrakech city or Marrakech Airport to Essaouira: $93
  • Transfer from Marrakech airport to the whole city: $11

Is it cheaper to fly into Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

Prices for flights to both Marrakech and Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Marrakech 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
    0.28
  • Breakfast
    1.12
  • Dates
    0.56
  • Olives
    0.84
  • Sandwich
    1.21
  • Souvenir Spices
    5.79

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
  • Online Moroccan Cooking Class: $17
  • Cooking Lesson at the Ouirgane Ecolodge with Lunch: $19
  • Restaurant Dinner Experience with Hotel Pickup: $21
  • Sunset in Agafay: Dinner, Camel, Quad-Book Adventure with Viator: $22
  • Dinner Show in Agafay Desert with Quad Bike & Camels: $22
  • Typical Moroccan Dinner at the inhabitant in Marrakech: $22
  • Marrakesh: Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner with a Show and Transfers : $22
  • Dinner Show Under stars in Agafay Desert with Sunset Camel Ride: $22
  • Dinner in Desert Marrakech and Camel ride at Sunset: $23
  • Magical Dinner & Agafay Desert ,Under The Stars: $24
  • Moroccan Cooking Class with a Local Chef: $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Marrakech 6.57

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $44
  • 3-Hour Hiking and Scramble Guided Tour of Great Saint in Meteora: $82
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $43
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $44
  • Discover Meteora's Monastic Heritage: Personalized Private Tour: $240
  • Golden Sunrise Meteora Private Photo Tour: $147
  • Half-Day Meteora Cultural Tour from Kalambaka train station: $47
  • Hiking Tour to Meteora from Kalambaka - Local Agency: $49
  • Kalambaka's Train Station: Meteora Monasteries Tour with Lunch: $52

Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech

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


  • Palace Tickets
    1.87
  • Golf at Atlas Golf
    53

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 Sahara Desert Tour From Marrakech ending in Fez city: $251
  • 3 Days Tour - Marrakech To Fez via Sahara Desert Erg chebbi: $207
  • Agafay Desert: Three Valley Guided Tour From Marrakech : $21
  • Atlas Mountains Horseback Ride Day Tour From Marrakech : $50
  • Atlas Mountains, Berber Villages & Waterfall Tour: $25
  • City Tour Marrakech with guide 1/2 day: $21
  • Desert Agafay & Berber Villages Day Tour From Marrakech including Camel Ride: $49
  • Desert tour small group with luxury tent: $98
  • Food Tasting Tour in Marrakech medina : $70
  • Full Day Desert Agafay & Atlas Mountains Tour With Camel Ride : $48
  • Full Day Guided Tour in Ouzoud Waterfalls : $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Marrakech 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76


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


Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Marrakech?

Marrakech has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.