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

Should you visit Marbella or Graz?

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

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

Graz

Graz is a historical, beautiful, and medieval city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella and Graz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Marbella or Graz?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Marbella than Graz. While Graz is larger than Marbella, Marbella has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Marbella is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Graz is more popular for its museums, food, and historical sights. Marbella is well known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Also, Marbella is famous for Plaza de los Naranjos. Graz is well known for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture.

How is Marbella different from Graz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Marbella
Graz

Graz 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 Graz can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marbella
Graz

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

Graz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

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 Graz Better for Nightlife?

Marbella
Graz

Marbella is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

Graz has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

Is Marbella or Graz Better for Music?

Marbella
Graz

Marbella is great for its live music scene. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a live music destination.


Is Marbella or Graz Better for Resorts?

Marbella
Graz

Marbella is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Graz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella
Graz

Marbella is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Graz Better for Beaches?

Marbella
Graz

Marbella is renowned for the beache. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a beach destination.


Is Marbella or Graz Better for its Old Town?

Marbella
Graz

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

Graz has a world-famous historical area. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

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 Graz?

Marbella
Graz

Marbella is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Graz. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Is Marbella or Graz Better for Families?

Marbella
Graz

Marbella and Graz are both very good 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.

Graz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.


Is Marbella or Graz Better for Couples?

Marbella
Graz

Marbella is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Graz is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Is Marbella or Graz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella
Graz

Marbella and Graz 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.

Graz is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Marbella or Graz Better for Students?

Marbella
Graz

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

Graz is a great city to visit as a student. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Marbella is not popular with students.


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

Marbella
Graz

Graz 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 Graz can get you around easily. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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 Graz a more walkable city?

Marbella
Graz

Graz 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 Graz. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore 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 Graz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Graz or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Graz?

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

Families should spend more time in Graz than Marbella. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Graz, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Marbella than Graz. 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 Graz 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 Graz.


  • How many days in Marbella or Graz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marbella 2-5 
    Graz 2-3

One day in Marbella or Graz?

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 city of Graz offers food and shopping. 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 Graz?

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.

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

Five days in Marbella or Graz?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the glamorous 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.

Graz 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 Graz?

The ritzy 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.

Graz 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Graz or Marbella?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Marbella is €117, while the average daily cost in Graz is €112. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Marbella and Graz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marbella 61
    Graz 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marbella 122
    Graz 134
Compare Hotels in Marbella and Graz

Looking for a hotel in Marbella or Graz? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Marbella


Hotels in Graz


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Marbella Hotel Prices and Graz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marbella 24
    Graz 18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marbella

Also for Marbella, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Malaga: Private Transfer Malaga Airport to Marbella: $235
  • Private Transfer from Gaucín to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $223
  • Private Transfer from Benaoján to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $214
  • Private Transfer from La Alcaidesa to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $205
  • Private Transfer from Manilva to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $175
  • Private Transfer from Sabinillas to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Estepona to Malaga (AGP) airport: $155
  • Private Transfer from Cómpeta to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $138
  • Private Transfer from El Paraíso to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $135
  • Private Transfer from San Pedro de Alcántara to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Istán to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from La Quinta Golf Resort to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

Also for Graz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58

Is it cheaper to fly into Marbella or Graz?

Prices for flights to both Graz and Marbella change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Marbella 38
    Graz 32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marbella

For Marbella, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Food Tour: $87
  • The Mediterranean Diet & Lifestyle Cooking Class.: $180
  • Gourmet Cooking Class & Culture in the rural Montes de Malaga.: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marbella 19
    Graz 13

Tours and Activities in Marbella

For Marbella, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 h Estepona Bay Tour: $47
  • 2 hours Quad Tour in Marbella - 1 quad for 1/2 persons 160€: $175
  • Antequera Classic Winery Tour: $206
  • Authentic Andalusia - Jeep Eco Tour (pick up from Marbella - Estepona) : $98
  • Bike City Tour Marbella: $32
  • Buggy Adventure with Incredible Views of the Sea and the Reservoir: $109
  • Caminito del Rey and Ardales Guided Tour from Costa del Sol: $75
  • Canyoning Experience Near Marbella (Benahavís River Walk): $43
  • Discover Marbella's Old Town with five-star private tour: $97
  • Dolphin Watching Adventure in Estepona Bay: $38
  • Dolphin Watching Tour on Sailboat in Marbella: $71
  • E-Bike Tour through Marbella/ Puerto Banús and San Pedro: $101

Tours and Activities in Graz

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Graz.

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marbella 5.71
    Graz 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Marbella

Also in Marbella, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Manilva & Gaucin Wine Tour from the Costa del Sol: $152
  • From Manilva Sunset Wine Tasting Tour with Tapas: $159
  • Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella: $195
  • From Antequera Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $213
  • From Axarquia Wine Tour with Wine Pairing Lunch: $234
  • Full-Day Private Ronda Wine Tour Experience from Marbella: $262
  • VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting and Gourmet Lunch Experience with Winemaker: $272


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


Which is Bigger, Marbella or Graz?

Graz has a larger population, and is about 85% larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Graz, 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 Graz?

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 Graz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Graz. Many visitors come to Marbella in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Graz for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Marbella is around the same temperature as Graz in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Graz fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Graz this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Graz during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

Graz receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Graz. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Graz receives 126 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marbella 25°C (77°F) 
    Graz 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Graz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Graz. Most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Graz because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marbella is a little warmer than Graz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Graz averages at about 13°C (55°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 Graz. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 139 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Graz. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Graz receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marbella 19°C (67°F) 
    Graz 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Graz in the Winter?

Both Graz and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Marbella because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Graz this time of year.

It's quite cold in Graz in the winter. In January, Marbella is generally much warmer than Graz. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Graz fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Graz during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 95 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Graz. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Graz receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marbella 12°C (54°F) 
    Graz 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Graz in the Spring?

Both Graz and Marbella during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Graz for the natural beauty.

Marbella is a little warmer than Graz in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Graz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Graz. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Graz receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marbella 16°C (60°F) 
    Graz 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Graz and Marbella

Marbella Graz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)