A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marbella vs. Ravenna for Nightlife, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Marbella or Ravenna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Ravenna, 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a off-the-beaten-path, charming, and authentic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella and Ravenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Ravenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marbella than Ravenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Marbella is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Ravenna is more popular for its museums, food, and small town charm. Marbella is more touristy than Ravenna and is known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Also, Marbella is famous for Plaza de los Naranjos. Ravenna is well known for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires.

How is Marbella different from Ravenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ravenna 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 Ravenna can be an interesting and educational experience. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Ravenna is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Ravenna has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

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 Ravenna Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Marbella is a world class party destination. 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.

Ravenna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

Is Marbella or Ravenna Better for Music?

Marbella is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Ravenna is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Marbella while you're in town. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Ravenna is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Ravenna Better for Resorts?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Ravenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Ravenna Better for Beaches?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Ravenna Better for its Old Town?

Marbella is a good destination for its old town. However, Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Marbella. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Ravenna?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Marbella draws large crowds to its stores. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Many visitors go to Ravenna to go shopping. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

Is Marbella or Ravenna Better for Families?

Marbella and Ravenna are both great 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.

Ravenna is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

Is Marbella or Ravenna Better for Couples?

Marbella is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Ravenna frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

Is Marbella or Ravenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella and Ravenna are both notable 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.

Ravenna is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

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

Ravenna 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.

Ravenna has some public transit options. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.

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 Ravenna a more walkable city?

Marbella and Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is a very walkable destination. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ravenna or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Ravenna?

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

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

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.

Ravenna is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ravenna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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 Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marbella and Ravenna, we can see that Marbella is more expensive. And not only is Ravenna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ravenna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ravenna 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 Ravenna.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Ravenna?

Ravenna has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Ravenna, 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 Ravenna?

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 Ravenna in the Summer?

Both Ravenna and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ravenna in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Marbella is a little warmer than Ravenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Ravenna fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Ravenna. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Ravenna in the Autumn?

Both Ravenna and Marbella during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Ravenna for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Marbella is a little warmer than Ravenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Ravenna averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Marbella usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Ravenna. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Ravenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Ravenna. Most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ravenna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ravenna can be very cold. In January, Marbella is generally much warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Ravenna. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Ravenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Ravenna. The spring months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Ravenna this time of year.

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

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Ravenna. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ravenna and Marbella