A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Marbella vs. Almeria for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Marbella or Almeria?

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

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

Marbella

Marbella is a fun-filled, high energy, and ritzy resort town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Almeria

Almeria is a breathtaking, pristine, and cultural region. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Marbella and Almeria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Almeria?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Marbella than Almeria. While Almeria is larger than Marbella, Marbella has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Almeria is known for its food, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also home to Plaza de los Naranjos. Almeria is popular for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity.

How is Marbella different from Almeria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Almeria 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, Almeria is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

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 Marbella or Almeria Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Almeria has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Is Marbella or Almeria Better for Music?

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

Marbella has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Almeria is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Almeria Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, world-class resorts can be found in both Marbella and Almeria.

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.

Almeria is a world class resort vacation destination. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Is Marbella or Almeria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Marbella. 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.

Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Almeria Better for Beaches?

Both Marbella and Almeria have world-class beaches worth visiting.

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.

Almeria is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Is Marbella or Almeria Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Almeria to see the historical old town. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

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 Marbella or Almeria Better for Hiking?

Almeria is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Marbella is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Marbella is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Almeria?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Marbella is a world class destination for shoppers. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marbella or Almeria Better for Families?

Marbella and Almeria are both great destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Marbella is very family-friendly. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Almeria is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Marbella or Almeria Better for Couples?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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

Almeria is a great resort town if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Is Marbella or Almeria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Almeria. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Marbella is a good resort town 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 Marbella or Almeria Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Almeria 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.

Almeria has some public transit options. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

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 Marbella or Almeria a more walkable city?

Marbella is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

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.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable resort town. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Almeria or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Almeria?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marbella and Almeria. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marbella than in Almeria. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 1-3 days is enough time in Almeria.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Almeria 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 Almeria.

One day in Marbella or Almeria?

In Marbella, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful region of Almeria offers food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marbella or Almeria?

In Marbella, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marbella has to offer.

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

Five days in Marbella or Almeria?

Marbella is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marbella has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Almeria is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

A week in Marbella or Almeria?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marbella. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Marbella. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Almeria is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This region offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marbella and Almeria, we can see that Marbella is more expensive. And not only is Almeria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Almeria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Almeria 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 Almeria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marbella Expensive? and Is Almeria Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Almeria?

Almeria has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Almeria, 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 Marbella or Almeria?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marbella or Almeria in the Summer?

Both Almeria and Marbella during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Almeria in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marbella is around the same temperature as Almeria. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marbella in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Almeria averages at about 26°C (78°F).

In Almeria, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the summer, Marbella often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Almeria. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Almeria receives 343 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets more rain in July than Almeria. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Almeria in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Almeria. Many visitors come to Marbella in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Almeria for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Marbella is generally around the same temperature as Almeria. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 19°C (67°F), and Almeria fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Almeria during autumn. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Almeria receives 220 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Marbella usually receives more rain than Almeria. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marbella or Almeria in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Almeria. Most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Almeria because of the cuisine.

Marbella is around the same temperature as Almeria in the winter. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Almeria fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Marbella often gets less sunshine than Almeria. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Almeria receives 186 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets more rain in January than Almeria. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Almeria in the Spring?

Both Almeria and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Almeria this time of year.

In the spring, Marbella is around the same temperature as Almeria. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marbella in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Almeria averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Almeria. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Almeria during spring. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Almeria receives 235 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marbella usually receives more rain than Almeria. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Almeria and Marbella