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

Should you visit Marbella or Lyon?

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

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

Lyon

Lyon is a authentic, historic, and beautiful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Lyon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lyon than Marbella. Lyon is bigger than Marbella, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lyon is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Marbella is well known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Marbella different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon is very popular for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Lyon are world-renowned. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lyon 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, Lyon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Marbella has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Lyon has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Is Marbella or Lyon Better for Music?

Marbella is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Lyon is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Marbella is very popular with diverse venues. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Lyon Better for Resorts?

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its resorts. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Lyon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Lyon Better for Beaches?

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for the beache. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

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

Lyon has a world-famous historical area. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

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 Lyon?

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Marbella make it a world-class shopping destination. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Marbella or Lyon Better for Families?

Marbella and Lyon are both superb destinations for the whole family.

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.

Lyon is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Marbella or Lyon Better for Couples?

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon 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.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Marbella or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lyon is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Marbella is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Marbella or Lyon Better for Students?

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

Lyon is a great destination for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Lyon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon a more walkable city?

Marbella and Lyon are superb 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.

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Lyon?

In either Marbella or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Marbella has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Marbella than Lyon. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Marbella than Lyon. 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 Lyon 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 Lyon.

One day in Marbella or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Marbella. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Lyon is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Lyon?

Marbella is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Marbella or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the fun-filled destination of Marbella. This resort town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marbella or Lyon?

The high energy resort town of Marbella offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Lyon 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 Lyon, we can see that Lyon 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 Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Lyon, 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 Lyon?

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 Lyon in the Summer?

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

Marbella is a little warmer than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the summer, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in July than Lyon. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Lyon in the Autumn?

Both Lyon 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 Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marbella is a little warmer than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Marbella or Lyon in the Winter?

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

Lyon can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Marbella is generally much warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets more rain in January than Lyon. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Lyon. Many visitors come to Marbella in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Marbella is a little warmer than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during spring. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marbella usually receives less rain than Lyon. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Marbella