A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marbella vs. Livorno for Nightlife, Beaches, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Marbella or Livorno?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Livorno, 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Livorno

Livorno is a waterfront, friendly, and down-to-earth port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Marbella and Livorno: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Livorno?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Marbella than Livorno. While Livorno is larger than Marbella, Marbella has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Livorno is known for its museums and big city activities. Marbella is more touristy than Livorno and is known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also home to Plaza de los Naranjos. Livorno is popular for its large port and its great seafood.

How is Marbella different from Livorno?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Livorno 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 Livorno specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The waterfront promenade and New Venice are nice to explore. There's an aquarium in town as well as a fun central market.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marbella and Livorno offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Livorno area. As a port city, this is the place to try seafood. Many dishes include calamari, shrimp, or freshly caught fish. The city is less touristy than most in Italy, so even the food has an authentic and down-to-earth vibe.

Is Marbella or Livorno Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Livorno. Most visitors arrive by cruise ship, and depart in the evening, but the city is large and for those that stay the night, there are a number of bars and clubs around town.

Is Marbella or Livorno Better for Music?

Marbella is great for its music scene. However, Livorno 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.

Livorno is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Livorno Better for Resorts?

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

Livorno is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Livorno Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Livorno 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.

Livorno is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Livorno Better for Beaches?

Marbella is renowned for the beach. However, Livorno is not a good destination for its beaches.

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.

Livorno is a good spot to see the beach. The beaches are pebbly or rocky, so you won't really find a long stretch of sandy beach where you can relax. They can also stay very crowded.

Is Marbella or Livorno Better for its Old Town?

Marbella is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Livorno does not have a historic old town.

Marbella has an old town worth visiting. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Livorno does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Livorno?

Marbella is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Livorno is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Marbella specifically to go shopping. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Livorno is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping street in town is Via Grande. It's generally filled with major chain stores and familiar brands.

Is Marbella or Livorno Better for Families?

Marbella is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Livorno is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Marbella. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Livorno is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a nice aquarium as well as outdoor recreational activities like cycling and boating. There's a beach and parks where kids can stretch their legs and run around as well.

Is Marbella or Livorno Better for Couples?

Marbella is renowned for couples. Also, Livorno is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

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.

Livorno is a nice destination for couples. There are some nice museums as well as parks and boat rides that couples can enjoy. There's also an aquarium and a beach.

Is Marbella or Livorno Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Livorno is not a good destination 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.

Livorno is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this city, so you won't find many hostels around town. It's a relatively affordable place to stay with some fun entertainment options if you do pass through.

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

Livorno 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.

Livorno has some public transit options. There are buses around town including lines that run from the central train station to the port.

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 Livorno a more walkable city?

Marbella is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Livorno is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

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.

Livorno is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but if you're arriving by cruise ship, you'll want to take a shuttle bus from the port.

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

Should I spend more time in Livorno or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Livorno?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marbella or Livorno to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marbella than Livorno because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 1-2 days is enough time in Livorno.

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

One day in Marbella or Livorno?

In Marbella, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The port city of Livorno offers nightlife and food. 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 Livorno?

In Marbella, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marbella has to offer.

Livorno is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Livorno, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Livorno?

Marbella is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marbella has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Livorno 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 Livorno?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marbella. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Marbella. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Livorno is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Livorno?

Livorno has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Livorno, 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 Livorno?

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 Livorno in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Livorno. The summer months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Livorno this time of year.

In the summer, Marbella is around the same temperature as Livorno. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marbella in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Livorno averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Livorno this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Livorno during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Livorno receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Livorno. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 24 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Livorno in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Livorno. 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 Livorno for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Livorno. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 19°C (67°F), and Livorno fluctuates around 16°C (61°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 Livorno. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Livorno receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Livorno. Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Livorno. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Livorno in the Winter?

Both Livorno and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Livorno in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Marbella is much warmer than Livorno in the winter. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Livorno fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Livorno during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Livorno receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Livorno. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Livorno in the Spring?

Both Livorno and Marbella during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marbella in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Livorno for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Marbella is a little warmer than Livorno. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marbella in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Livorno averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Livorno. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Livorno receives 192 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Livorno. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Livorno receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Livorno and Marbella