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

Should you visit Marbella or Como?

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

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

Como

Como is a trendy, fun, and vibrant lake area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Marbella and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Como?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marbella than Como, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Como is known for its museums, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Como is more touristy than Marbella and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. 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 Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

While most people don't head to Como specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Como 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, Como is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

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 Como Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Marbella is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Marbella or Como Better for Music?

Marbella is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Como is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Marbella has diverse options. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Como is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Como Better for Resorts?

Marbella is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Como is not a resort destination.

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.

Como is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Como Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Como is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Marbella specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Como is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Como Better for Beaches?

Marbella is renowned for the beach. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Como. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Is Marbella or Como Better for its Old Town?

Marbella is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Como 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.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Marbella or Como Better for Hiking?

Como 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 Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Marbella is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Como?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Marbella and Como.

Known for shopping, Marbella draws large crowds to its stores. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Como is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Is Marbella or Como Better for Families?

Marbella and Como are both superb 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.

Como is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Is Marbella or Como Better for Couples?

Marbella and Como are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Marbella has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Como is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Is Marbella or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Como 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 Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

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

Como 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.

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

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 Como a more walkable city?

Marbella and Como are superb 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.

Como is a very walkable destination. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Como or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Marbella or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Marbella due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

One day in Marbella or Como?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Marbella. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful lake area of Como offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Como?

Marbella is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Como is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this lake area 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 Como, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Como?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the high energy destination of Marbella. This resort town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Como 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 Como?

The fun-filled resort town of Marbella offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Como 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 lake area 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 from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marbella and Como, we can see that Como is more expensive. And not only is Marbella much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marbella would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marbella 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como than you might in Marbella.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Como?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Como, 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 Como?

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 Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Como this time of year.

In the summer, Marbella is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marbella in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Como averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Como. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Como during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Como. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Como in the Autumn?

Both Como and Marbella during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Como for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 19°C (67°F), and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Como. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

Como gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Como. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Como in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Como. Many travelers come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Como in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Como can get quite cold in the winter. Marbella is much warmer than Como in the winter. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Como during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Como. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Como in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Como. Many visitors come to Marbella in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Marbella is a little warmer than Como. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marbella in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Como averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Como. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Como. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Como and Marbella