A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marbella vs. Bruges for Nightlife, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Marbella or Bruges?

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

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

Bruges

Bruges is a historic, charming, and historic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella and Bruges: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Bruges?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Marbella. Although Marbella and Bruges are about the same size, Marbella has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Bruges is known for its museums, food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is more touristy than Marbella and is known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also home to Plaza de los Naranjos.

How is Marbella different from Bruges?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bruges can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Bruges has a huge number of terrific restaurants. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

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 Bruges Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Marbella is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Marbella or Bruges Better for Music?

Marbella is great for its music scene. However, Bruges 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.

Bruges is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Bruges Better for Resorts?

Marbella is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Bruges is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Marbella for its luxury resorts. 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.

Bruges is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Bruges Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is very popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bruges 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.

Bruges is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Bruges Better for Beaches?

Marbella is very popular for the beach. However, Bruges is not a beach destination.

Marbella offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Bruges is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Bruges Better for its Old Town?

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

Bruges has a world-famous historical area. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

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 Marbella or Bruges?

Marbella is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Marbella or Bruges Better for Families?

Marbella is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Marbella or Bruges Better for Couples?

Marbella is very popular for couples. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Bruges is a very popular place to visit for couples. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

Is Marbella or Bruges Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges 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 Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

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 Bruges Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bruges 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.

Bruges has some public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

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 Bruges a more walkable city?

Bruges 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 Bruges. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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 Marbella Worth Visiting? and Is Bruges Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bruges or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Bruges?

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

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

One day in Marbella or Bruges?

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.

The beautiful city of Bruges offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Bruges?

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.

Bruges 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bruges, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Bruges?

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.

Bruges 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 Bruges?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the ritzy 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.

Bruges is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Bruges?

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

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 Bruges in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Bruges. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bruges in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marbella is a little warmer than Bruges. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marbella in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Bruges averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bruges this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Bruges during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Bruges. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Bruges in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Bruges. Many visitors come to Marbella in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bruges for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Marbella is generally much warmer than Bruges. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 19°C (67°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 12°C (54°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 Bruges. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 105 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Bruges. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Bruges in the Winter?

Both Bruges and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bruges because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bruges can be very cold. Marbella is much warmer than Bruges in the winter. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Bruges fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Bruges during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Bruges. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Bruges in the Spring?

Both Bruges and Marbella during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bruges this time of year.

In the spring, Marbella is much warmer than Bruges. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marbella in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bruges averages at about 8°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Bruges. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 158 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Bruges. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bruges and Marbella