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

Should you visit Marbella or Versailles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Versailles, 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 high energy, ritzy, and glamorous 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.

Versailles

Versailles is a ornate, opulent, and historic palace. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the museums.

Marbella and Versailles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Marbella or Versailles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Marbella than Versailles. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Marbella is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Versailles attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Versailles is more touristy than Marbella and is known for its long running history and its grand architecture. Marbella is famous for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also well known for Plaza de los Naranjos.

How is Marbella different from Versailles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Marbella
Versailles

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Versailles are world-renowned. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Versailles is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marbella. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is Marbella or Versailles Better for Nightlife?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Marbella or Versailles Better for Music?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is a great resort town for live music. However, Versailles is not a live music destination.

Marbella has a thriving music scene. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Versailles is not a live music destination.


Is Marbella or Versailles Better for Resorts?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Versailles is not a resort destination.

Marbella offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Versailles is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Versailles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Versailles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Marbella specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Versailles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Versailles Better for Beaches?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for its beaches. However, Versailles is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Marbella are among the best in 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.

Versailles is not a beach destination.


Is Marbella or Versailles Better for its Old Town?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Versailles 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.

Versailles does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Versailles?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marbella or Versailles Better for Families?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is a great resort town for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known 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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.


Is Marbella or Versailles Better for Couples?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is an amazing resort town to visit for romance. Also, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace for its romantic activities.

Marbella has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Versailles is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

Is Marbella or Versailles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Marbella
Versailles

Versailles 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 Versailles can get you around easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

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 Versailles a more walkable city?

Marbella
Versailles

Marbella and Versailles are superb 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.

Versailles is a very walkable destination. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

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

Should I spend more time in Versailles or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Versailles?

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

Families should spend more time in Marbella than Versailles. 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 Versailles. 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 Versailles 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 Versailles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marbella 2-5 
    Versailles 1-2

One day in Marbella or Versailles?

With live music and food around the glamorous resort town of Marbella, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful palace of Versailles 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 Versailles?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Marbella, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this resort town.

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


Five days in Marbella or Versailles?

Marbella, a popular resort town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this resort town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Versailles 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 Versailles?

Marbella is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Versailles 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 palace 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 Sightseeing Tours in France, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Versailles 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 Versailles is €234. 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 Versailles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marbella 61
    Versailles 128
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marbella 122
    Versailles 256
Compare Hotels in Marbella and Versailles

Looking for a hotel in Marbella or Versailles? 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 Versailles


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 Versailles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marbella 24
    Versailles 53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marbella

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

  • From Malaga: Private Transfer Malaga Airport to Marbella: $235
  • Private Transfer from Gaucín to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $223
  • Private Transfer from Benaoján to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $214
  • Private Transfer from La Alcaidesa to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $205
  • Private Transfer from Manilva to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $175
  • Private Transfer from Sabinillas to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $174
  • Private Transfer from Estepona to Malaga (AGP) airport: $155
  • Private Transfer from Cómpeta to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $138
  • Private Transfer from El Paraíso to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $135
  • Private Transfer from San Pedro de Alcántara to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Istán to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Benahavís to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132

Is it cheaper to fly into Marbella or Versailles?

Prices for flights to both Versailles 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
    Versailles 67

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marbella 19
    Versailles 45

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 Versailles

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Versailles.

  • Versailles Palace Private Family Tour Designed for Kids: $261
  • Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket: $67
  • Private Guided Tour of the Palace: $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marbella 5.71
    Versailles 18

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


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


Which is Bigger, Marbella or Versailles?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 40% larger than the population of Versailles. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Versailles, 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Versailles. The summer months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Versailles. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 25°C (77°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Versailles this time of the year. In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Versailles during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 239 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Versailles. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marbella 25°C (77°F) 
    Versailles 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Versailles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Versailles. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Versailles for the natural beauty of the area.

Marbella is a little warmer than Versailles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Versailles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Versailles. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 126 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marbella 19°C (67°F) 
    Versailles 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Versailles in the Winter?

Both Versailles and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Versailles in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Versailles can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Marbella is much warmer than Versailles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marbella in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Versailles averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Versailles during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Versailles. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marbella 12°C (54°F) 
    Versailles 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Versailles in the Spring?

Both Versailles and Marbella during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marbella in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Versailles for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Versailles. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 16°C (60°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Versailles. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 173 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Versailles. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marbella 16°C (60°F) 
    Versailles 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Versailles and Marbella

Marbella Versailles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)