A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Marbella vs. Hondarribia for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Marbella or Hondarribia?

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

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

Where Should I go: Marbella or Hondarribia?

Marbella

Marbella is a city in southern Spain in the province of Malaga. It is part of the Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun) and is located on the Mediterranean Sea between Malaga and the Strait of Gibraltar. It is one of the most important tourist cities in the area and receives many national and international tourists year round due to its climate and tourism structures. Marbella is a bit of a glamorous city due to its beauty and resort-type environment. The old town with its narrow cobbled streets and flower-filled plazas is packed with shops and art galleries selling boutique clothes and accessories, and handmade wares. The city has significant archaeological and historical heritage and many events and performances throughout the year.

Hondarribia

The characteristic Spanish buildings painted in the brightest, most vibrant of colors only match the true spirit of the town, Hondarribia, Spain. Hondarribia is located on the west shore of Bidasoa river's mouth in Gipuzkoa of Basque Country. The town is rich in its Spanish history, holding both an ancient old quarter with walls and a castle within. Hondarribia is also known for its gorgeous beach of bright blue water across the Bidasoa alongside the fertile, roaming mountain of Jaizkibel. What's more, Hondarribia faces the border of Hendaye, France, so if you are yearning to expand your cultural learning, take a service boat over to Spain's friendly neighbor! No matter if you want to explore the ancient architecture or enjoy the cooling waters of the bay, Hondarribia is definitely a location known for its beauty and activity!

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Spain, The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Hondarribia or Marbella?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Marbella Prices
    Spain Prices
    Hondarribia Prices
    Spain Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marbella 145
    Hondarribia 162

The average daily cost (per person) in Marbella is €145, while the average daily cost in Hondarribia is €162. 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 Hondarribia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marbella 61
    Hondarribia 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marbella 122
    Hondarribia 140
Compare Hotels in Marbella and Hondarribia

Looking for a hotel in Marbella or Hondarribia? 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 Hondarribia


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 Hondarribia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marbella 24
    Hondarribia 32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marbella

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

  • Vip Transfer from Malaga Airport to Marbella: $112
  • Vip One Way Transfer from Malaga Airport to Malaga City: $39
  • Vip Malaga Private Transfer to Marbella: $100
  • TRANSFER MALAGA AIRPORT from OR to PUERTO BANUS-PRICE ALL INCUSIVE: $132
  • TRANSFER MALAGA AIRPORT from OR to MARBELLA-PRICE ALL INCLUSIVE: $120
  • Private Transfer from Torrox to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $284
  • Private Transfer from Torreblanca to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $259
  • Private Transfer from Las Chapas to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $296
  • Private Transfer from La Quinta Golf Resort to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $171
  • Private Transfer from Estepona to Malaga (AGP) airport: $170
  • Private Transfer from Alhaurín El Grande to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $224
  • Costa del Sol: Private 1-Way Transfer to/from Malaga Airport: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Marbella or Hondarribia?

Prices for flights to both Hondarribia 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 66
    Hondarribia 71

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marbella

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

  • Flamenco Show & Dinner in Fuengirola/Mijas - Tipi Tapa Restaurant: $34
  • Marbella Food Tour with Tapas & Drinks with a Local: $95
  • Explore Marbella Old Town: Authentic Tapas Food Tour: $105
  • Marbella Old Town: Authentic Tapas Food Tour With Local Guide: $107
  • Marbella Food Tour: Tapas, Drinks and Delights with a Local: $107
  • Chefcooking Paella from our Andalusian Grandmother at a Family Farm: $107

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marbella 19
    Hondarribia 22

Tours and Activities in Marbella

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

  • Guided tour to Caminito del Rey from the Costa del Sol: $67
  • 2 h Estepona Bay Tour: $47
  • 2 hours Quad Tour Marbella - 170€ per Quad up to 2 people: $100
  • 2-Hour Catamaran Tour along the Costa Tropical and Malaga Coast: $46
  • Active Sailing Experience in Marbella: $119
  • Authentic Andalusia - Jeep Eco Tour (pick up from Marbella - Estepona) : $138
  • Boat experience in Marbella: $576
  • Buggy Adventure with Incredible Views of the Sea and the Reservoir: $120
  • Caminito del Rey and Ardales Guided Tour from Costa del Sol: $84
  • Catamaran Sailing Experience Manilva Dolphins Tapas and Welcome Drink: $83
  • Catamaran Sailing Experience Manilva Tapas Drink Dolphins Swim Stop: $119
  • Discover Marbella's Old Town with five-star private tour: $121

Tours and Activities in Hondarribia

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

  • From San Sebastian: Hondarribia, San Pedro & San Juan Tour: $65
  • Get to know Hondarribia by sea. Audio-guided boat tour: $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marbella 5.71
    Hondarribia 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Marbella

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

  • From Antequera Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $816
  • From Axarquia Wine Tour with Wine Pairing Lunch: $1,110


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


Which is Bigger, Marbella or Hondarribia?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Hondarribia. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Hondarribia, 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 Hondarribia?

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 Hondarribia in the Summer?

Both Hondarribia and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Hondarribia. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 25°C (77°F), and Hondarribia fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Hondarribia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Hondarribia during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Hondarribia receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Hondarribia. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Hondarribia receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marbella 25°C (77°F) 
    Hondarribia 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Hondarribia in the Autumn?

Both Hondarribia and Marbella during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marbella in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Marbella is a little warmer than Hondarribia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Hondarribia fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Hondarribia. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hondarribia receives 144 hours of full sun.

Hondarribia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Hondarribia. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hondarribia receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marbella 19°C (67°F) 
    Hondarribia 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Hondarribia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Hondarribia. Most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Marbella is a little warmer than Hondarribia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marbella in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Hondarribia averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Hondarribia during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Hondarribia receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hondarribia receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Marbella usually receives less rain than Hondarribia. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Hondarribia receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marbella 12°C (54°F) 
    Hondarribia 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Hondarribia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Hondarribia. The spring months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Hondarribia. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 16°C (60°F), and Hondarribia fluctuates around 12°C (54°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 Hondarribia. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hondarribia receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hondarribia. Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Hondarribia. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Hondarribia receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marbella 16°C (60°F) 
    Hondarribia 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Hondarribia and Marbella

Marbella Hondarribia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)