A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marrakech vs. Auxerre for Couples, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Marrakech or Auxerre?

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

Should I visit Marrakech or Auxerre? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Marrakech

Marrakech is a fascinating, ancient, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a undiscovered, authentic, and under-rated town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Marrakech and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Marrakech or Auxerre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marrakech. Although Marrakech and Auxerre are popular destinations, Marrakech has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marrakech is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre attracts visitors for its small town charm. Marrakech is more touristy than Auxerre and is known for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. It is also well known for Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Auxerre is famous for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Marrakech different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marrakech or Auxerre?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Marrakech is great for its historical sights. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Marrakech specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While wandering the medina is an attraction in and of itself, there are also several sights that you should specifically check out. The iconic Djemaa el-Fnaa, or the city's main square, is best visited as the sun goes down. Other notable landmarks include Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle Gardens, and Medersa Ben Youssef.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


Is the Food Better in Marrakech or Auxerre? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Marrakech is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Marrakech has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Moroccan food is amazing and you'll enjoy grilled meats, tagines, couscous, and more. The city is more touristy than some parts of Morocco so you'll find the quality of the food can vary a bit, but it's still a culinary delight. Marrakesh is also a great city for taking a cooking class.

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Marrakech or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Marrakech is very good for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Marrakech has a few options to choose from. Although alcohol is hard to come by, you'll find it in most western style restaurants and high end hotel chains. The city has more bars and nightclubs than you'd expect. There's also a great nighttime energy with many locals heading outside in the evening. Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, comes to life with street vendors, performers, and people during the nighttime hours.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Marrakech or Auxerre Better for its Old Town?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Marrakech is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Marrakech offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The historic medina is filled with spices, antiques, art, and pottery. The culture and experience of wandering the medina will have you feeling like you stepped back in time.

Auxerre does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Marrakech or Auxerre?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Marrakech is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Marrakech specifically to go shopping. Shop your way through the street stalls and sample perfumes, spices, produce, and more. You'll find everything from souvenir trinkets to local items and authentic antiques.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marrakech or Auxerre Better for Families?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Marrakech is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Marrakech. Kids will enjoy exploring a new culture and wandering through the medina. The food is very kid-friendly and during the evening the main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, comes to life with street performers, vendors, and entertainment. Families can also take cooking classes or head into the desert for a camel trek.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Marrakech or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Marrakech is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Marrakech has plenty to offer. There are many wonderful restaurants and fascinating places for couples to explores. Wandering the medina or visiting the gardens make for a romantic and adventurous getaway.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.


Is Marrakech or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Marrakech is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Marrakech, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is very affordable and there are countless riads that are budget-friendly. There are enough backpackers around town that it's not hard to meet fellow travelers.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

Is Marrakech or Auxerre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Auxerre is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.

Auxerre has some public transit options. There are buses around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marrakech. While there are local buses, most people take taxis around town when they can't walk. Taxis are affordable and convenient.

Is Marrakech or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Marrakech
Auxerre

Marrakech is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Marrakech is a very walkable destination. The medina is the best area to walk around but it's very easy to get lost. Outside of the medina you'll want to keep your eyes open for motorbikes and the occasional donkey.

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.


For even more information, also check out Is Marrakech Worth Visiting? and Is Auxerre Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Marrakech?

How long in Marrakech or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marrakech or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marrakech than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marrakech, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

Families should spend more time in Marrakech than Auxerre. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Marrakech, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Marrakech than Auxerre. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Marrakech that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Marrakech than Auxerre 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 Marrakech.


  • How many days in Marrakech or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marrakech 3-7 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Marrakech or Auxerre?

Because Marrakech is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Auxerre. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Auxerre has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Marrakech or Auxerre?

Because Marrakech is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and food around the authentic destination of Auxerre. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Marrakech or Auxerre?

Marrakech is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marrakech has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the undiscovered town of Auxerre. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Marrakech or Auxerre?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marrakech. Because Marrakech is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Auxerre is a popular choice for travelers. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Morocco, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Marrakech?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Marrakech is $69, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is $121. 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 Marrakech and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marrakech $46
    Auxerre $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marrakech $92
    Auxerre $110
Compare Hotels in Marrakech and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Marrakech or Auxerre? 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 Marrakech


Hotels in Auxerre


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: Marrakech Hotel Prices and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marrakech $6.30
    Auxerre $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech

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

  • Private Transfer From Marrakech To Fez: $444
  • One way transfer from Fes to Marrakech: $361
  • Private Transfer between Marrakech and Casablanca: $309
  • Agadir private transfer from Ouirgane to Agadir airport (AGA): $290
  • Agadir and Marrakech airport transfer : $290
  • Transfer Marrakech to Tangier: $286
  • Private Transfer From Casablanca to Marrakesh: $278
  • Agadir private transfer from Imlil to Agadir airport (AGA): $271
  • Private Transfer From Marrakech To Agadir Or Agadir To Marrakech : $268
  • Transfert Departure Marrakech City to Casablanca Airport: $265
  • City to City Transfer - Marrakesh > MHamid: $260
  • Private Transfer from Marrakech Menara (RAK) Airport to Taroudant: $255

Is it cheaper to fly into Marrakech or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Marrakech 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
    Marrakech $13
    Auxerre $37
Typical Food Prices in Marrakech

For Marrakech, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Orange Juice on the Square
    $0.30
  • Breakfast
    $1.20
  • Dates
    $0.60
  • Olives
    $0.90
  • Sandwich
    $1.29
  • Souvenir Spices
    $6.18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech

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

  • Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride and Dinner from Marrakech: $15
  • Online Moroccan Cooking Class: $17
  • Cooking Lesson at the Ouirgane Ecolodge with Lunch: $19
  • Restaurant Dinner Experience with Hotel Pickup: $21
  • Sunset in Agafay: Dinner, Camel, Quad-Book Adventure with Viator: $22
  • Typical Moroccan Dinner at the inhabitant in Marrakech: $22
  • Marrakesh: Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner with a Show and Transfers : $22
  • Dinner Show in Agafay Desert with Quad Bike & Camels: $22
  • Dinner Show Under stars in Agafay Desert with Sunset Camel Ride: $22
  • Dinner in Desert Marrakech and Camel ride at Sunset: $23
  • Magical Dinner & Agafay Desert ,Under The Stars: $24
  • Moroccan Cooking Class with a Local Chef: $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marrakech $7.01
    Auxerre $19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Marrakech's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Palace Tickets
    $1.99
  • Golf at Atlas Golf
    $56

Tours and Activities in Marrakech

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

  • 10 Hours tour from marrakech to ouarzazate: $44
  • 3 Day Sahara Desert Tour From Marrakech ending in Fez city: $251
  • 3 Days Tour - Marrakech To Fez via Sahara Desert Erg chebbi: $207
  • Agafay Desert: Three Valley Guided Tour From Marrakech : $21
  • Atlas Mountains Horseback Ride Day Tour From Marrakech : $50
  • Atlas Mountains, Berber Villages & Waterfall Tour: $25
  • City Tour Marrakech with guide 1/2 day: $21
  • Desert Agafay & Berber Villages Day Tour From Marrakech including Camel Ride: $49
  • Desert tour small group with luxury tent: $98
  • Food Tasting Tour in Marrakech medina : $70
  • Full Day Desert Agafay & Atlas Mountains Tour With Camel Ride : $48
  • Full Day Guided Tour in Ouzoud Waterfalls : $30

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

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

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marrakech $15
    Auxerre $6.58

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Auxerre:

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marrakech and Auxerre, we can see that Auxerre is more expensive. And not only is Marrakech much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Marrakech is in Africa and Auxerre is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Marrakech would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marrakech 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 Auxerre would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auxerre than you might in Marrakech.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marrakech Expensive? and Is Auxerre Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marrakech or Auxerre?

Marrakech has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Auxerre. When comparing the sizes of Marrakech and Auxerre, 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.