A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Marbella vs. Vitoria-Gasteiz for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Marbella or Vitoria-Gasteiz?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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.

Where Should I go: Marbella or Vitoria-Gasteiz?

Marbella

Marbella is a city in southern Spain in the province of Malaga. It is part of the Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun) and is located on the Mediterranean Sea between Malaga and the Strait of Gibraltar. It is one of the most important tourist cities in the area and receives many national and international tourists year round due to its climate and tourism structures. Marbella is a bit of a glamorous city due to its beauty and resort-type environment. The old town with its narrow cobbled streets and flower-filled plazas is packed with shops and art galleries selling boutique clothes and accessories, and handmade wares. The city has significant archaeological and historical heritage and many events and performances throughout the year.

Vitoria-Gasteiz

In the midst of a vast, starry night, medieval cathedrals and ancient buildings are scattered with light across the humming city. This is none other than Vitoria-Gasteiz, a town located in the province of Araba/Alava in northern Spain. Within its border, this city contains Basque Country's House of Parliament, the headquarters of the Government, and the Lehendakari's (Prime Minister's) official residence. In 2012, Vitoria-Gasteiz was awarded the title of European Green Capital and now is one of the top five places to live in Spain. This multicultural city is chock full of amazing national history as well as unique cultural traditions. Vitoria-Gasteiz is also well known for its festivals, including Azkena rock festival, FesTVal, Vitoria-Gasteiz jazz festival, and the Virgen Blanca Festivities. Whether you seek to explore its world-renowned wineries or dine in a chic restaurant, Vitoria-Gasteiz holds an endless amount of possibilities.

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 Spain, and The Best Budget Tours to Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Vitoria-Gasteiz 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz is €146. 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marbella 61
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marbella 122
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 138
Compare Hotels in Marbella and Vitoria-Gasteiz

Looking for a hotel in Marbella or Vitoria-Gasteiz? 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz


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 Vitoria-Gasteiz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marbella 24
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 34

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 Vitoria-Gasteiz?

Prices for flights to both Vitoria-Gasteiz 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
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 51

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
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 36

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marbella 5.71
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 23

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 Vitoria-Gasteiz, we can see that Vitoria-Gasteiz 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Vitoria-Gasteiz 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marbella or Vitoria-Gasteiz?

Vitoria-Gasteiz has a larger population, and is about 87% larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella and Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz?

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 Vitoria-Gasteiz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 25°C (77°F), and Vitoria-Gasteiz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Vitoria-Gasteiz during summer. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Vitoria-Gasteiz receives 188 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marbella usually receives less rain than Vitoria-Gasteiz. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Vitoria-Gasteiz receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marbella 25°C (77°F) 
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Vitoria-Gasteiz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Vitoria-Gasteiz. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marbella this time of year.

Marbella is a little warmer than Vitoria-Gasteiz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Vitoria-Gasteiz fluctuates around 16°C (62°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 Vitoria-Gasteiz. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vitoria-Gasteiz receives 125 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Vitoria-Gasteiz. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Vitoria-Gasteiz receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marbella 19°C (67°F) 
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Vitoria-Gasteiz in the Winter?

Both Vitoria-Gasteiz 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.

In the winter, Marbella is a little warmer than Vitoria-Gasteiz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marbella in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Vitoria-Gasteiz averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Vitoria-Gasteiz during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Vitoria-Gasteiz receives 77 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Vitoria-Gasteiz. In January, Marbella usually receives less rain than Vitoria-Gasteiz. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Vitoria-Gasteiz receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marbella 12°C (54°F) 
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Marbella or Vitoria-Gasteiz in the Spring?

Both Vitoria-Gasteiz 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.

In April, Marbella is generally a little warmer than Vitoria-Gasteiz. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 16°C (60°F), and Vitoria-Gasteiz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Vitoria-Gasteiz. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vitoria-Gasteiz receives 117 hours of full sun.

Vitoria-Gasteiz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Vitoria-Gasteiz. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Vitoria-Gasteiz receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marbella 16°C (60°F) 
    Vitoria-Gasteiz 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Vitoria-Gasteiz and Marbella

Marbella Vitoria-Gasteiz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 10°C (50°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (62°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 10°C (50°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)