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

Should you visit Marbella or Lucerne?

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

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

Lucerne

Lucerne is a cultural, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Lucerne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marbella than Lucerne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Lucerne is known for its museums, historical sights, and big city activities. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also home to Plaza de los Naranjos. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips.

How is Marbella different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lucerne 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 Lucerne can be an interesting and educational experience. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marbella and Lucerne 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 Lucerne area. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Marbella or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Marbella or Lucerne Better for Music?

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

Lucerne is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Lucerne Better for Resorts?

Marbella is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Lucerne is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Marbella for its luxury resorts. 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.

Lucerne is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Lucerne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is very popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Marbella. 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.

Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Lucerne Better for Beaches?

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

Marbella offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne 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 Lucerne to see the historical old town. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

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 Lucerne?

Marbella is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Is Marbella or Lucerne Better for Families?

Marbella is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Marbella or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Marbella is very popular for couples. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Marbella is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Is Marbella or Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

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

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around 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 Lucerne a more walkable city?

Marbella is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Lucerne?

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

Families should spend more time in Marbella than Lucerne. 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 Lucerne. 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne?

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 beautiful city of Lucerne offers food and shopping. 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 Lucerne?

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.

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

Five days in Marbella or Lucerne?

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.

Lucerne 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 Lucerne?

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.

Lucerne 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marbella and Lucerne, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Marbella much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marbella would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marbella and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne than you might in Marbella.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marbella Expensive? and Is Lucerne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Lucerne?

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

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 Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Lucerne. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marbella is a little warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marbella in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Lucerne averages at about 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lucerne this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Lucerne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Lucerne. Many visitors come to Marbella in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 19°C (67°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°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 Lucerne. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Marbella or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lucerne can be very cold. Marbella is much warmer than Lucerne in the winter. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Lucerne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Lucerne. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Lucerne in the Spring?

Both Lucerne and Marbella during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.

In the spring, Marbella is a little warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marbella in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Lucerne averages at about 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Lucerne. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Marbella