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

Should you visit Marbella or Rome?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Rome, 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 fun-filled, high energy, and ritzy resort town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Rome

Rome is a popular, ancient, and archeological city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Marbella and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Marbella, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Marbella is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Marbella and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife.

The Colosseum

How is Marbella different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Rome are world-renowned. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Rome 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, Rome is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

The first-rate nightlife scene is relatively similar in Marbella and Rome.

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.

People head to Rome just to party. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

Is Marbella or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is very popular for its live music scene. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Rome. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Marbella. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Is Marbella or Rome Better for Resorts?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Rome is not a resort destination.

Marbella is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Rome Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Marbella is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Rome Better for Beaches?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Marbella is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Marbella is a resort town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

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.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Rome?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Marbella and Rome.

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.

Rome is a world class destination for shoppers. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Is Marbella or Rome Better for Families?

Marbella and Rome are both high quality 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.

Rome is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Is Marbella or Rome Better for Couples?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Marbella is a great resort town for couples, as it 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.

Rome is a great resort town if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Marbella or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rome is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

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

Rome is a great destination for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

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

Rome has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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 Rome a more walkable city?

Rome 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 Rome. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Rome?

Both Marbella and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Marbella. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

Families should spend more time in Marbella than Rome. 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 Rome. 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 Rome 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 Rome.

One day in Marbella or Rome?

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.

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

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.

Rome is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the ritzy 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.

Rome is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rome, 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 Rome?

The ritzy 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.

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Marbella during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the summer, Marbella often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rome. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in July than Rome. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Rome. Many travelers come to Marbella for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rome in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during autumn. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Marbella usually receives less rain than Rome. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marbella or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Rome. Many visitors come to Marbella in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

In the winter, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Rome. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Rome. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Marbella is a little warmer than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marbella in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Rome during spring. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marbella usually receives less rain than Rome. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Marbella