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

Should you visit Marbella or Catania?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Catania, 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 ritzy, glamorous, and fun-filled 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.

Catania

Catania is a lively, youthful, and fun port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Marbella and Catania: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Catania?

You'll generally find more things to do in Catania than Marbella. Catania is bigger than Marbella, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Catania is better known for its museums, food, hiking, and big city activities, while Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Marbella is well known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Catania is well known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. Also, Catania is famous for Mount Etna.

How is Marbella different from Catania?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Catania offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Catania 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, Catania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

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 Catania Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

Catania has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Is Marbella or Catania Better for Music?

Marbella is notable for its live music scene. However, Catania is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Marbella. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Catania is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Catania Better for Resorts?

Marbella is very popular for its resorts. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Catania Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Catania Better for Beaches?

Marbella is very popular for the beache. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

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.

Catania has a beach worth visiting. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Is Marbella or Catania Better for its Old Town?

Marbella and Catania 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.

Catania offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Is Marbella or Catania Better for Hiking?

Catania 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 Catania. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Marbella is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Catania?

Marbella is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Is Marbella or Catania Better for Families?

Marbella and Catania are both excellent 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.

Catania is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

Is Marbella or Catania Better for Couples?

Marbella is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

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.

Catania is a good resort town for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Marbella or Catania Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania 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 Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

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 Catania Better for Students?

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

Catania is a great port city to visit as a student. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Catania 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 Catania can get you around easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

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 Catania a more walkable city?

Marbella and Catania are excellent 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.

Catania is a very walkable destination. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Catania or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Catania?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marbella or Catania to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marbella than Catania 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 Catania.

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

One day in Marbella or Catania?

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 port city of Catania offers food and shopping. 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 Catania?

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.

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

Five days in Marbella or Catania?

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.

Catania is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Catania?

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.

Catania is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 port 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Catania?

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

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 Catania in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Catania. 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 Catania because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marbella is around the same temperature as Catania in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Catania fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the summer, Marbella often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Catania. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Catania receives 325 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in July than Catania. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Catania receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Catania in the Autumn?

Both Catania and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Marbella because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Catania this time of year.

In the autumn, Marbella is around the same temperature as Catania. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Catania averages at about 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Catania during autumn. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Catania receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Catania. In October, Marbella usually receives less rain than Catania. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Catania receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marbella or Catania in the Winter?

Both Catania and Marbella during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Catania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Catania. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Catania fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Catania. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Catania receives 153 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets more rain in January than Catania. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Catania receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Catania in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Catania. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Catania in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Marbella is around the same temperature as Catania in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Catania fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Catania during spring. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Catania receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marbella usually receives more rain than Catania. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Catania receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Catania and Marbella