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

Should you visit Marbella or La Rochelle?

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

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

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a charming, peaceful, and relaxing coastal town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Marbella and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or La Rochelle?

You'll generally find more things to do in Marbella than La Rochelle. Marbella is bigger than La Rochelle, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Marbella is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while La Rochelle is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Marbella is more touristy than La Rochelle and is known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Also, Marbella is famous for Plaza de los Naranjos. La Rochelle is well known for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting.

How is Marbella different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

La Rochelle 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, La Rochelle is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is Marbella or La Rochelle Better for Music?

Marbella is great for its live music scene. However, La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or La Rochelle Better for Resorts?

Marbella is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or La Rochelle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

Marbella is very popular for the beache. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the beach.

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.

Many people head to La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Is Marbella or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

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

La Rochelle has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

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 Marbella or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

La Rochelle is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marbella is not a hiking destination.

La Rochelle has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Marbella is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or La Rochelle?

Marbella is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town 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.

Many visitors go to La Rochelle to go shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Is Marbella or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Marbella is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its family-friendly activities.

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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Marbella or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

Marbella and La Rochelle are both fantastic 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.

La Rochelle is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

Is Marbella or La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella and La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is Marbella or La Rochelle Better for Students?

La Rochelle is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marbella is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit La Rochelle. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle has some public transit options. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

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 La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Marbella and La Rochelle are very good 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.

La Rochelle is a very walkable destination. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Marbella or La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle.

Families should spend more time in Marbella than La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.

One day in Marbella or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the fun-filled resort town of Marbella. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

La Rochelle is a small town where visitors enjoy the 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 La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the glamorous destination of Marbella. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This resort town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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

Five days in Marbella or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the ritzy resort town of Marbella. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Marbella. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

La Rochelle is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 coastal town 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 Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Marbella and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marbella or La Rochelle?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 56% larger than the population of La Rochelle. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Marbella is a little warmer than La Rochelle in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Rochelle this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than La Rochelle. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marbella as well as La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Marbella is a little warmer than La Rochelle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 15°C (59°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 La Rochelle. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in October than La Rochelle. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or La Rochelle in the Winter?

Both La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle this time of year.

In January, Marbella is generally much warmer than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives around the same amount of rain as La Rochelle. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or La Rochelle in the Spring?

Both La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle for the beaches and the small town charm.

Marbella is a little warmer than La Rochelle in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than La Rochelle. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than La Rochelle. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Marbella