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

Should you visit Marbella or The Hague?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or The Hague, 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

The Hague

The Hague is a international, bustling, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Marbella and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Marbella or The Hague?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Marbella than The Hague. While The Hague is larger than Marbella, Marbella has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Marbella is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while The Hague attracts visitors for its food and big city activities. Marbella is more touristy than The Hague and is known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also well known for Plaza de los Naranjos. The Hague is famous for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.

How is Marbella different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between The Hague and Marbella. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Marbella
The Hague

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

The Hague has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

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 The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for nightlife. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Marbella has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

The people in The Hague know how to have a good time. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Is Marbella or The Hague Better for Music?

Marbella
The Hague

It can be fun to see live music in either Marbella and The Hague.

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.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in The Hague. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Is Marbella or The Hague Better for Resorts?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a resort destination.


Is Marbella or The Hague Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or The Hague Better for Beaches?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its beaches. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or The Hague Better for its Old Town?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella is very good for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Marbella is a good destination for visiting its old town. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or The Hague?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for shopping. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Marbella. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Is Marbella or The Hague Better for Families?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Marbella is a very family-friendly destination. 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 The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

Is Marbella or The Hague Better for Couples?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.


Is Marbella or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella and The Hague are both nice 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.

The Hague is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Is Marbella or The Hague Better for Students?

Marbella
The Hague

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

The Hague is a great destination for students. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Marbella
The Hague

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

The public transit in The Hague can get you around easily. There are bus and tram lines throughout 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 The Hague a more walkable city?

Marbella
The Hague

Marbella is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Marbella is very walkable. 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.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or The Hague?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marbella and The Hague. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marbella than in The Hague. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 1-3 days is enough time in The Hague.

Families should spend more time in Marbella than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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.


  • How many days in Marbella or The Hague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marbella 2-5 
    The Hague 1-3

One day in Marbella or The Hague?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the resort town of Marbella. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The Hague is a big city with plenty to do. 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 The Hague?

You'll find live music and food around the ritzy destination of Marbella. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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


Five days in Marbella or The Hague?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the fun-filled resort town of Marbella. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer.

The Hague 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 The Hague?

Marbella is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The Hague 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 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 Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague or Marbella?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Marbella is €117, while the average daily cost in The Hague is €178. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Marbella and The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marbella 61
    The Hague 104
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marbella 122
    The Hague 208
Compare Hotels in Marbella and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Marbella or The Hague? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Marbella


Hotels in The Hague


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Marbella Hotel Prices and The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marbella 24
    The Hague 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marbella

Also for Marbella, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Vip Transfer from Malaga Airport to Fuengirola or Marbella: $21
  • TRANSFER MALAGA AIRPORT from OR to MARBELLA-PRICE ALL INCLUSIVE: $104
  • Private Transfer from Vélez-Málaga to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Torrox to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $120
  • Private Transfer from Torrox Costa to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $120
  • Private Transfer from Torre del Mar to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from San Pedro de Alcántara to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Sabinillas to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Mezquitilla to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $127
  • Private Transfer from Marbesa to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Manilva to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $175
  • Private Transfer from Los Monteros to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $107

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

Also for The Hague, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278

Is it cheaper to fly into Marbella or The Hague?

Prices for flights to both The Hague and Marbella change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Marbella 38
    The Hague 55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marbella

For Marbella, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Food Tour: $87
  • The Mediterranean Diet & Lifestyle Cooking Class.: $180
  • Gourmet Cooking Class & Culture in the rural Montes de Malaga.: $191

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marbella 19
    The Hague 34

Tours and Activities in Marbella

For Marbella, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 h Estepona Bay Tour: $47
  • 2 hours Quad Tour in Marbella - 1 quad for 1/2 persons 160€: $175
  • Antequera Classic Winery Tour: $206
  • Authentic Andalusia - Jeep Eco Tour (pick up from Marbella - Estepona) : $98
  • Bike City Tour Marbella: $32
  • Buggy Adventure with Incredible Views of the Sea and the Reservoir: $109
  • Caminito del Rey and Ardales Guided Tour from Costa del Sol: $75
  • Canyoning Experience Near Marbella (Benahavís River Walk): $49
  • Discover Marbella's Old Town with five-star private tour: $97
  • Dolphin Watching Adventure in Estepona Bay: $38
  • Dolphin Watching Tour on Sailboat in Marbella: $71
  • E-Bike Tour through Marbella/ Puerto Banús and San Pedro: $101

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • Amsterdam: The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam Private Day Tour: $535
  • Bicycle tour The Hague Highlights: $27
  • Boattour The Hague and Scheveningen: $187
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Den Haag: Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Discover Delft with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover The Hague's city center with an Outside Escape game tour: $27
  • Drive it yourself electric Dune & Summer Flower GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric History and Castle GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric Tulip and Flower Fields GPS audio tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marbella 5.71
    The Hague 30

Sample the Local Flavors in Marbella

Also in Marbella, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Manilva & Gaucin Wine Tour from the Costa del Sol: $152
  • From Manilva Sunset Wine Tasting Tour with Tapas: $159
  • Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella: $195
  • From Antequera Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $213
  • From Axarquia Wine Tour with Wine Pairing Lunch: $234
  • Full-Day Private Ronda Wine Tour Experience from Marbella: $262
  • VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting and Gourmet Lunch Experience with Winemaker: $272

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


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


Which is Bigger, Marbella or The Hague?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and The Hague, 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 The Hague?

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 The Hague in the Summer?

Both The Hague 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 The Hague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marbella is generally a little warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 25°C (77°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in The Hague. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than The Hague. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marbella 25°C (77°F) 
    The Hague 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Marbella or The Hague in the Autumn?

Both The Hague 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. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to The Hague this time of year.

Marbella is much warmer than The Hague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and The Hague fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in October than The Hague. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marbella 19°C (67°F) 
    The Hague 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Marbella or The Hague in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in The Hague. In the winter, Marbella is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marbella in January average around 12°C (54°F), and The Hague averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than The Hague. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marbella 12°C (54°F) 
    The Hague 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Marbella or The Hague in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marbella as well as The Hague. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to The Hague in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Marbella is generally much warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 16°C (60°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 8°C (46°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 The Hague. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than The Hague. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marbella 16°C (60°F) 
    The Hague 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for The Hague and Marbella

Marbella The Hague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)