A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Marbella for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Beaches

Should you visit Lisbon or Marbella?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Marbella? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Marbella

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

Lisbon and Marbella: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Marbella?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Marbella, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Marbella is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife.

How is Lisbon different from Marbella?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Lisbon are world-renowned. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lisbon is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lisbon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Marbella area. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

Is Lisbon or Marbella Better for Nightlife?

The fantastic nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Marbella.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Marbella is a world class party destination. 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.

Is Lisbon or Marbella Better for Music?

Lisbon is very popular for its live music scene. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Lisbon. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Marbella. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Is Lisbon or Marbella Better for Resorts?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Marbella is a great choice. 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.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or Marbella Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Marbella a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Marbella Better for Beaches?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Marbella. 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.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Lisbon or Marbella Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is very popular for its old town. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Lisbon has a world-famous historical area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Marbella offers a nice historic old town area. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Marbella?

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Lisbon and Marbella.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Marbella is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Is Lisbon or Marbella Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Marbella.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Marbella is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Is Lisbon or Marbella Better for Couples?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Marbella makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Marbella Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lisbon is extremely popular for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Marbella is a good city 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 Lisbon or Marbella Better for Students?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Marbella is not popular with students.

Lisbon is a great city to visit as a student. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Lisbon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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 Lisbon or Marbella a more walkable city?

Lisbon is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Marbella is a very walkable destination. 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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Marbella Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marbella or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Marbella?

In either Lisbon or Marbella, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than Marbella because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Marbella.

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

Couples should spend more time in Marbella than Lisbon. 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 Lisbon than Marbella 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Marbella?

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. 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 Lisbon or Marbella?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. 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 Lisbon or Marbella?

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Lisbon or Marbella?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Marbella?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Marbella in the Summer?

Both Marbella and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Marbella in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Marbella. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Marbella fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Marbella. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Marbella in the Autumn?

Both Marbella and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Marbella in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Marbella fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 213 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Marbella. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Marbella in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Marbella. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Marbella because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Marbella. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Marbella averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Lisbon usually receives less sunshine than Marbella during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Marbella. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Marbella in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Marbella. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marbella this time of year.

In April, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Marbella. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Marbella fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 220 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Marbella. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Marbella and Lisbon