A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marbella vs. Stratford-upon-Avon for Couples, Families, Food, and Old Town

Should you visit Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon, 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a historic, quaint, and idyllic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Visitors also love the food and theater.

Marbella and Stratford-upon-Avon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marbella than Stratford-upon-Avon, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, and small town charm. Marbella is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Also, Marbella is famous for Plaza de los Naranjos. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Marbella different from Stratford-upon-Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Stratford-upon-Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is very popular for its theatre productions. However, Marbella is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Stratford-upon-Avon. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Marbella is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Marbella and Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Music?

Marbella is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Resorts?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Beaches?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for its Old Town?

Marbella and Stratford-upon-Avon both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Families?

Marbella is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Couples?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good resort town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Marbella is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Marbella and Stratford-upon-Avon.

Public transit is mostly limited in Marbella. There is a bus system through the area, but most visitors prefer to get around by car.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon a more walkable city?

Marbella is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable resort town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Marbella Worth Visiting? and Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stratford-upon-Avon or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

Families should spend more time in Marbella than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

In Marbella, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people visit Marbella for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marbella, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon?

In Marbella, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marbella, five days is sufficent for most.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that theater 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting Marbella. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort town offers something for everyone. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that theater 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 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Stratford-upon-Avon, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon in the Summer?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Marbella is a little warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Stratford-upon-Avon. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Autumn?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon 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. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year.

In the autumn, Marbella is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 107 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Stratford-upon-Avon. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Stratford-upon-Avon. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Stratford-upon-Avon. In January, Marbella is generally much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Stratford-upon-Avon. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Stratford-upon-Avon. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring for the small town charm.

Marbella is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 9°C (48°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 Stratford-upon-Avon. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 147 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Stratford-upon-Avon. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Stratford-upon-Avon and Marbella