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

Should you visit Marbella or Piazza Armerina?

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

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

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a historic, charming, and authentic town. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Marbella and Piazza Armerina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Piazza Armerina?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marbella than Piazza Armerina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Marbella is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Piazza Armerina is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Marbella is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Also, Marbella is famous for Plaza de los Naranjos. Piazza Armerina is well known for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Marbella different from Piazza Armerina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina can be an interesting and educational experience. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marbella and Piazza Armerina offer notable 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 Piazza Armerina area. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Marbella or Piazza Armerina Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Marbella is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Marbella or Piazza Armerina Better for Music?

Marbella is notable for its live music scene. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Piazza Armerina Better for Resorts?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Piazza Armerina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Piazza Armerina Better for Beaches?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Piazza Armerina Better for its Old Town?

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina to see the historical old town. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

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 Piazza Armerina?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marbella or Piazza Armerina Better for Families?

Marbella is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Marbella or Piazza Armerina Better for Couples?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Piazza Armerina is a good resort town for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

Is Marbella or Piazza Armerina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella is a good destination for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

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

Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina has some public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

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 Piazza Armerina a more walkable city?

Marbella and Piazza Armerina are great 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.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable destination. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Piazza Armerina or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Piazza Armerina?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marbella or Piazza Armerina to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marbella than Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina.

Families should spend more time in Marbella than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina?

The fun-filled destination of Marbella offers live music and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Piazza Armerina offers museums 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 Piazza Armerina?

The resort town of Marbella offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

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

Five days in Marbella or Piazza Armerina?

Marbella is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Marbella. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Piazza Armerina 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 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 Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marbella and Piazza Armerina, we can see that Marbella is more expensive. And not only is Piazza Armerina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Piazza Armerina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Piazza Armerina 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 Marbella would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Marbella than you might in Piazza Armerina.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Piazza Armerina?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Piazza Armerina, 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 Piazza Armerina?

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 Piazza Armerina in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Piazza Armerina. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Piazza Armerina in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Marbella is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Piazza Armerina. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the summer, Marbella often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Piazza Armerina. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 325 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Marbella or Piazza Armerina in the Autumn?

Both Piazza Armerina and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marbella in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marbella is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Piazza Armerina during autumn. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Marbella usually receives less rain than Piazza Armerina. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marbella or Piazza Armerina in the Winter?

Both Piazza Armerina and Marbella during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Piazza Armerina because of the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Piazza Armerina. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Piazza Armerina. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 153 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Marbella or Piazza Armerina in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Piazza Armerina. The spring months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Marbella is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Piazza Armerina during spring. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marbella usually receives more rain than Piazza Armerina. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Piazza Armerina and Marbella