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

Should you visit Marbella or Lille?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Lille, 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 ritzy, glamorous, and fun-filled resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Lille

Lille is a under-rated, fascinating, and cultural city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Marbella and Lille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Lille?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Marbella than Lille. While Lille is larger than Marbella, Marbella has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marbella is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Lille is more popular for its museums, food, and historical sights. Marbella is more touristy than Lille and is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Also, Marbella is famous for Plaza de los Naranjos. Lille is well known for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

How is Marbella different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lille 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 Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lille 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, Lille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

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 Lille Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Lille has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

Is Marbella or Lille Better for Music?

Marbella is notable for its live music scene. However, Lille is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Marbella. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Lille is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Lille Better for Resorts?

Marbella is very popular for its resorts. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Lille Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Lille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Lille Better for Beaches?

Marbella is very popular for the beache. However, Lille is not a beach destination.

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.

Lille is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Lille Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Lille to see the historical old town. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

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 Lille?

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

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.

Lille is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Is Marbella or Lille Better for Families?

Marbella is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Marbella is a very kid-friendly resort town. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Marbella or Lille Better for Couples?

Marbella is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Lille is a good resort town for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Marbella or Lille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella and Lille 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.

Lille is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Marbella or Lille Better for Students?

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

Lille is a great city to visit as a student. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Lille 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 Lille can get you around easily. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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 Lille a more walkable city?

Lille 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 Lille. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored 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 Lille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lille or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Lille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marbella and Lille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marbella than in Lille. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lille.

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

One day in Marbella or Lille?

In Marbella, many people enjoy the live music and food that this fun-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful city of Lille offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marbella or Lille?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marbella. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Five days in Marbella or Lille?

Marbella is a fun place to experience. In Marbella, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Lille 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 Lille?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the ritzy destination of Marbella. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lille 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Lille?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Lille, 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 Lille?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marbella or Lille in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Lille. The summer months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lille this time of year.

Marbella is a little warmer than Lille in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Lille fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lille. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the summer, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Lille. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 202 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in July than Lille. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Lille in the Autumn?

Both Lille and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marbella is much warmer than Lille. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Lille averages at about 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Lille during autumn. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Marbella usually receives less rain than Lille. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marbella or Lille in the Winter?

Both Lille and Marbella during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lille in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lille can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Marbella is generally much warmer than Lille. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Lille fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Lille. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets more rain in January than Lille. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Lille receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Lille in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Lille. Many visitors come to Marbella in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lille for the natural beauty during these months.

Marbella is much warmer than Lille in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Lille fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Lille during spring. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marbella usually receives less rain than Lille. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lille and Marbella