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

Should you visit Marbella or Edinburgh?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Edinburgh, 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a gothic, ancient, and charming 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. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Marbella and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Edinburgh?

You'll generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Marbella. Edinburgh is bigger than Marbella, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Marbella is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Edinburgh is more touristy than Marbella and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Marbella is well known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife.

How is Marbella different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its theatre productions. However, Marbella is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Marbella is not a theatre destination.

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

Marbella is a resort town with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Marbella is a must-see party destination. 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.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is very popular for its live music scene. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Marbella. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for Resorts?

Marbella is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

Marbella is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Marbella is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for Beaches?

Marbella is terrific for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Marbella is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

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

Edinburgh has a world-famous historical area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

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 Edinburgh?

Marbella is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Marbella and Edinburgh are both high quality 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.

Edinburgh is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Marbella is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Marbella is a great resort town for couples, as it 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.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Is Marbella or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Edinburgh is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh Better for Students?

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

Edinburgh is a great city to visit as a student. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

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 Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Edinburgh?

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

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

One day in Marbella or Edinburgh?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the resort town of Marbella. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Edinburgh offers theater and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find live music and food around the high energy destination of Marbella. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Edinburgh?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the ritzy resort town of Marbella. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer.

Edinburgh is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

Marbella is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Edinburgh 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marbella and Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marbella is much warmer than Edinburgh in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Marbella during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marbella for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marbella is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Edinburgh. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Edinburgh in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Edinburgh. Many visitors come to Marbella in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. In January, Marbella is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Edinburgh. Most visitors come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Marbella is much warmer than Edinburgh in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°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 Edinburgh. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Edinburgh. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Marbella