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

Should you visit Marbella or Bordeaux?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Bordeaux, 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming, romantic, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Bordeaux?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Marbella than Bordeaux. While Bordeaux is larger than Marbella, Marbella has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marbella is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Bordeaux is more popular for its museums, food, and big city activities. Bordeaux is more touristy than Marbella and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Marbella is well known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Also, Marbella is famous for Plaza de los Naranjos.

How is Marbella different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux?

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

Bordeaux offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bordeaux 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, Bordeaux is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Marbella just to party. 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 Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Marbella or Bordeaux Better for Music?

Marbella is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Bordeaux Better for Resorts?

Marbella is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Bordeaux Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

Marbella is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

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.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Marbella and Bordeaux both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Marbella. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Bordeaux offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Bordeaux?

Marbella is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Marbella make it a world-class shopping destination. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Marbella or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Marbella is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Marbella or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Marbella is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Bordeaux is a great resort town if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Is Marbella or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella and Bordeaux are both notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Marbella. 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.

Bordeaux is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Marbella or Bordeaux Better for Students?

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

Bordeaux is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

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

The public transit in Bordeaux can get you around easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

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 Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Marbella and Bordeaux are very good when it comes to walkability.

Marbella is a very walkable resort town. 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.

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Bordeaux?

In either Marbella or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Marbella has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Marbella than Bordeaux. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Marbella than Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux 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.

One day in Marbella or Bordeaux?

The beautiful resort town of Marbella offers shopping and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The beautiful city of Bordeaux offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Marbella or Bordeaux?

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

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

Five days in Marbella or Bordeaux?

Marbella is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marbella, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bordeaux is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bordeaux, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marbella or Bordeaux?

Marbella is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux in the Summer?

Both Bordeaux and Marbella during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marbella in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Marbella is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Bordeaux, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the summer, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in July than Bordeaux. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Bordeaux. Most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marbella is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Marbella usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marbella or Bordeaux in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Bordeaux. The winter months attract visitors to Marbella because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

In January, Marbella is generally much warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bordeaux. Marbella usually gets less rain in January than Bordeaux. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Bordeaux in the Spring?

Both Bordeaux and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Marbella is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during spring. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marbella usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Marbella