A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marbella vs. Pompeii for Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Marbella or Pompeii?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Pompeii, 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 glamorous, fun-filled, and high energy resort town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a famous, iconic, and one-of-a-kind archeological site. Visitors also love the museums.

Marbella and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Marbella. Although Marbella and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Marbella has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Marbella is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is known for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Marbella and is known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also home to Plaza de los Naranjos.

How is Marbella different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Pompeii are world-renowned. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marbella is very good for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Marbella is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for Music?

Marbella is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Marbella has diverse options. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for Resorts?

Marbella is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Marbella is a perfect choice. 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.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Marbella is not to be missed. 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.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Marbella is renowned for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Marbella is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Marbella is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Pompeii?

Marbella is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for Families?

Marbella and Pompeii are both excellent 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.

Pompeii is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Marbella is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Marbella has plenty to offer. 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella and Pompeii are both good 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.

Pompeii is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Marbella or Pompeii Better for Students?

Pompeii is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marbella is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Pompeii. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Pompeii 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.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

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 Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii 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 Pompeii. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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 Pompeii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Pompeii?

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

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

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 archeological site of Pompeii offers museums. 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 Pompeii?

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.

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

Five days in Marbella or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archeological site 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marbella and Pompeii, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Marbella or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marbella is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marbella in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Pompeii averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Pompeii. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Marbella during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Marbella because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 19°C (67°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Pompeii. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Pompeii. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pompeii for the museums.

Marbella is much warmer than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Marbella usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Pompeii. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Pompeii. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Marbella