A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marbella vs. Auxerre for Nightlife, Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Marbella or Auxerre?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Auxerre, 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 high energy, ritzy, and glamorous resort town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a under-rated, undiscovered, and authentic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Marbella and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Marbella or Auxerre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Marbella. Although Marbella and Auxerre are both popular with visitors, Marbella has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre is known for its museums and small town charm. Marbella is more touristy than Auxerre and is known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also home to Plaza de los Naranjos. Auxerre is popular for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Marbella different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Marbella
Auxerre

Auxerre is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

Auxerre offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marbella
Auxerre

Both Marbella and Auxerre offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

Marbella has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Auxerre area. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Marbella or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

Marbella has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Marbella or Auxerre Better for Music?

Marbella
Auxerre

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

The music scene in Marbella draws a good crowd. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Auxerre is not a live music destination.


Is Marbella or Auxerre Better for Resorts?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Auxerre is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Marbella is a perfect 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.

Auxerre is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Auxerre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Auxerre is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Marbella is not to be missed. 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.

Auxerre is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Auxerre Better for Beaches?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for the beach. However, Auxerre is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Marbella is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Auxerre is not a beach destination.


Is Marbella or Auxerre Better for its Old Town?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Marbella has an old town worth visiting. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Auxerre?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Marbella specifically to go shopping. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marbella or Auxerre Better for Families?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Marbella. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.


Is Marbella or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Marbella has plenty to offer. 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.

Is Marbella or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Marbella is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

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

Marbella
Auxerre

Auxerre 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.

Auxerre has some public transit options. There are buses around town.

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 Auxerre a more walkable city?

Marbella
Auxerre

Marbella is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

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

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marbella or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marbella than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

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

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


  • How many days in Marbella or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marbella 2-5 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Marbella or Auxerre?

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 town of Auxerre offers museums and food. 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 Auxerre?

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.

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


Five days in Marbella or Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre 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 Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Marbella?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Marbella is €117, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is €113. 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 Marbella and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marbella 61
    Auxerre 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marbella 122
    Auxerre 102
Compare Hotels in Marbella and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Marbella or Auxerre? 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 Marbella


Hotels in Auxerre


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 and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marbella 24
    Auxerre 46

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: $235
  • Private Transfer from Gaucín to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $223
  • Private Transfer from Benaoján to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $214
  • Private Transfer from La Alcaidesa to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $205
  • Private Transfer from Manilva to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $175
  • Private Transfer from Sabinillas to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Estepona to Malaga (AGP) airport: $155
  • Private Transfer from Cómpeta to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $138
  • Private Transfer from El Paraíso to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $135
  • Private Transfer from San Pedro de Alcántara to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Istán to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Benahavís to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132

Is it cheaper to fly into Marbella or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Marbella 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
    Marbella 38
    Auxerre 34

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: $87
  • The Mediterranean Diet & Lifestyle Cooking Class.: $180
  • Gourmet Cooking Class & Culture in the rural Montes de Malaga.: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marbella 19
    Auxerre 18

Tours and Activities in Marbella

For Marbella, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 h Estepona Bay Tour: $47
  • 2 hours Quad Tour in Marbella - 1 quad for 1/2 persons 160€: $175
  • Antequera Classic Winery Tour: $206
  • 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): $49
  • Discover Marbella's Old Town with five-star private tour: $97
  • Dolphin Watching Adventure in Estepona Bay: $38
  • Dolphin Watching Tour on Sailboat in Marbella: $71
  • E-Bike Tour through Marbella/ Puerto Banús and San Pedro: $101

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Auxerre.

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marbella 5.71
    Auxerre 6.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Marbella

Also in Marbella, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Manilva & Gaucin Wine Tour from the Costa del Sol: $152
  • From Manilva Sunset Wine Tasting Tour with Tapas: $159
  • Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella: $195
  • From Antequera Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $213
  • From Axarquia Wine Tour with Wine Pairing Lunch: $234
  • Full-Day Private Ronda Wine Tour Experience from Marbella: $262
  • VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting and Gourmet Lunch Experience with Winemaker: $272

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Auxerre:

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


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


Which is Bigger, Marbella or Auxerre?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Auxerre. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre?

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 Marbella or Auxerre in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Auxerre. Most visitors come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Auxerre because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marbella is a little warmer than Auxerre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marbella in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Auxerre averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Auxerre this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Auxerre during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Auxerre. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marbella 25°C (77°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Auxerre in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Auxerre. The autumn months attract visitors to Marbella because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year.

In October, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 19°C (67°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Auxerre. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Auxerre. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marbella 19°C (67°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Auxerre in the Winter?

Both Auxerre and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Auxerre for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Auxerre. Marbella is much warmer than Auxerre in the winter. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Auxerre fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Auxerre during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marbella 12°C (54°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Auxerre in the Spring?

Both Auxerre and Marbella during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Auxerre in the spring for the small town charm.

In the spring, Marbella is much warmer than Auxerre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marbella in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Auxerre averages at about 10°C (50°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Auxerre. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Auxerre. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marbella 16°C (60°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Marbella

Marbella Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)