Which place is cheaper, Paris or Marrakech?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Marrakech or Paris?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Marrakech or Paris? 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.
Paris
Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.
Marrakech and Paris: Pros and Cons
Marrakech
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Scenic old town
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
- Less popular for nightlife
- Public transit not as usable
Paris
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Numerous theater shows
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Popular at Christmas
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Good public transit
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to the Eiffel Tower
Is there more to do in Marrakech or Paris?
You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Marrakech. Paris is bigger than Marrakech, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Marrakech is more popular for its historical sights. Marrakech is well known for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. Paris is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower.
The Eiffel Tower
How is Marrakech different from Paris?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Paris 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 Paris?
Marrakech
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.
With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Paris has many famous sights for visitors. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.
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.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for Theater?
Marrakech
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Marrakech is not a theatre destination.
The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.
Marrakech is not a theatre destination.
Is the Food Better in Marrakech or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Marrakech
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.
For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.
With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Marrakech makes for a great culinary experience. 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.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for Nightlife?
Marrakech
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.
The nightlife in Paris is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.
Marrakech has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for Music?
Marrakech
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Marrakech is not a live music destination.
Paris has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.
Marrakech is not a live music destination.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for its Old Town?
Marrakech
Paris
Marrakech is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.
Marrakech has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.
Paris does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Marrakech or Paris?
Marrakech
Paris
Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Marrakech and Paris.
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.
Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for Christmas?
Marrakech
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Marrakech does not offer Christmas activities.
Known for its popular Christmas activities, Paris draws large crowds. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.
Marrakech does not offer Christmas activities.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for Families?
Marrakech
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.
Marrakech is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for Couples?
Marrakech
Paris
With fun activities for couples, both Marrakech and Paris make for a first-rate place to visit.
Marrakech makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.
For those traveling as a couple, Paris has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Marrakech
Paris
Marrakech and Paris are both first-rate destinations 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.
Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for Students?
Marrakech
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Marrakech is not popular with students.
Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.
Marrakech is not popular with students.
Is Marrakech or Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Marrakech
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.
Visitors in Paris can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.
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 Paris a more walkable city?
Marrakech
Paris
Marrakech and Paris are high quality when it comes to 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.
Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Marrakech Worth Visiting? and Is Paris Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Paris or Marrakech?
How long in Marrakech or Paris?
Both Marrakech and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Paris has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Paris than Marrakech. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Paris than Marrakech. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Paris than Marrakech. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Marrakech 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 Paris.
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How many days in Marrakech or Paris? Ideal Length of StayMarrakech 3-7Paris 3-7
One day in Marrakech or Paris?
Each neighborhood in Marrakech has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.
You'll find museums and theater around the city of Paris. 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.
A weekend in Marrakech or Paris?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marrakech. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.
You'll find theater and nightlife around the iconic big city of Paris. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
Five days in Marrakech or Paris?
Marrakech is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Marrakech has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.
You'll find nightlife and live music around the iconic city of Paris. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
A week in Marrakech or Paris?
Each neighborhood in Marrakech has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is often enough time to do most activities.
Paris is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayMarrakech $70Paris $253
The average daily cost (per person) in Marrakech is $70, while the average daily cost in Paris is $253. 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 Paris in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personMarrakech $47Paris $164
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomMarrakech $94Paris $328
Compare Hotels in Marrakech and Paris
Looking for a hotel in Marrakech or Paris? 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.
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 Paris Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Marrakech $6.42Paris $23
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech
Also for Marrakech, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Transfer From Marrakech To Fez: $455
- One way transfer from Fes to Marrakech: $370
- Private Transfer between Marrakech and Casablanca: $315
- City to City Transfer - Marrakesh > Merzouga: $300
- Agadir and Marrakech airport transfer : $294
- Agadir private transfer from Ouirgane to Agadir airport (AGA): $294
- Transfer Marrakech to Tangier: $290
- Private Premium Transfert From / To Marrakech To / From Tangier: $288
- Private Transfer From Casablanca to Marrakesh: $285
- Private Premium Transfert From / To Marrakech To / From Meknes: $282
- Agadir private transfer from Imlil to Agadir airport (AGA): $275
- Transfer Marrakech to Fes: $260
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:
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Metro$6.97
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Train from Airport$9.80
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Metro tickets$7.41
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Train$22
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris
Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- transfer from CDG/ORLY airport to Paris ,multilingual driver: $69
- Versailles: Skip-the-Line Day Tour & Transfer from Paris: $2,612
- Versailles Round-Trip Transfers: Multiple Departures: $53
- Versailles Palace Guided Tour with Coach Transfer from Paris: $60
- VERSAILLES CASTLE Private Round-Trip Transfer from Paris in Van: $193
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Paris HTL-APT (CDG): $101
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Orly APT-HTL (ORY): $96
- Transfers between Paris and Paris Airports/Disneyland/Versailles: $94
- Transfers Chatèau Versailles: $87
- Transfer in private vehicle from Paris Orly Airport (ORY) - Disney: $60
- Transfer in private vehicle from Paris City - Paris Orly Airport (ORY): $47
- Transfer in private vehicle from Disney - Paris Airport (CDG): $60
Is it cheaper to fly into Marrakech or Paris?
Prices for flights to both Paris 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
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Food Meals for one dayMarrakech $13Paris $45
Typical Food Prices in Marrakech
For Marrakech, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
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Orange Juice on the Square$0.30
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Breakfast$1.22
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Dates$0.61
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Olives$0.91
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Sandwich$1.32
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Souvenir Spices$6.30
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech
For Marrakech, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Evenings Experiencing a Sunset Dinner in the Agafay Desert: $14
- Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride and Dinner from Marrakech: $15
- Agafay Desert Package, Quad Bike, Camel Ride and Dinner Show: $16
- Online Moroccan Cooking Class: $17
- Cooking Lesson at the Ouirgane Ecolodge with Lunch: $19
- Dinner in Agafay desert from Marrakech & camel riding: $19
- Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner & Camel Ride & Show: $21
- From Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride and Dinner: $21
- Marrakech desert: Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner Show: $21
- Marrakech Agafay Desert show with Dinner Sunset Camel Ride: $21
- Restaurant Dinner Experience with Hotel Pickup: $21
- Quad bike dinner & magic show agafay desert: $22
Typical Food Prices in Paris
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:
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Ice Cream$8.71
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Breakfast$7.62
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Breakfast for 2$32
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Dinner on River Cruise$94
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Dinner$62
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Cheese$14
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris
For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Paris : Bistronomic early dinner cruise: $53
- Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise: $60
- Seine Cruise Departure from Pont Alexandre III with Dinner Included: $61
- Paris : Pastries and Tragedies, The food tour of Montmartre: $64
- Le Marais Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $67
- Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise: $67
- Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $69
- 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Bistro Dinner: $69
- No Diet Club - Paris : Night food tour - Montmartre: $70
- Feed the Mood: Local & small-group Food Tour of Versailles: $71
- Seine River Sightseeing Cruise and Dinner at Le Bistro Parisien: $76
- Paris Food Tour: $76
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Marrakech $7.14Paris $84
Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Marrakech's activities, tours, and tickets:
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Palace Tickets$2.03
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Golf at Atlas Golf$57
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
- 2 days Tour Marrakech-Ouarzazatte: $189
- Agafay Desert: Three Valley Guided Tour From Marrakech : $21
- Atlas Mountains Horseback Ride Day Tour From Marrakech : $51
- Atlas Mountains Tour & three valleys with camel ride : $24
- Atlas Mountains and Berber villages & Waterfalls Day Tour from Marrakech : $26
- Best Marrakech Private walking tour: $44
- City Tour Marrakech with guide 1/2 day: $33
- Desert Agafay & Berber Villages Day Tour From Marrakech including Camel Ride: $50
- Desert Thrills: Quad Biking Adventures in Palmeraie Marrakech: $44
- Experience Spa Hammam Massage and Camel tour: $105
- Food Tasting Tour in Marrakech medina : $70
Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris
For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
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Louvre Entry for Two$20
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Admission to Pantheon$5.45
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Catacombs (2)$25
Tours and Activities in Paris
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.
- Audio-Guided Montparnasse Tower Tour with Priority Admission: $39
- Day Tour- Normandy Omaha Beach - Cemetery - Cider Tasting: $286
- Guided Eiffel Tower Tour and Boat Cruise River Seine Sightseeing: $83
- Guided Tour to Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Chronicles: $54
- Guided Walking Tour & Parisian Drink Tasting at Montmartre Paris: $39
- Musée d'Orsay Rebels Passion Colour. A Private Guided Tour: $133
- Musée d'Orsay Skip-the-Line Fully Guided Tour: $57
- Notre-Dame Walking Tour with Skip The Line Sainte-Chapelle Entry: $62
- Paris Boat River Seine Cruise Sightseeing TICKETS: $22
- Paris Christmas Market Tour: $299
- Paris Sightseeing Tour with Seine River Cruise from Disneyland®: $95
- Skip-the-Line Paris Catacombs Special Access Tour: $131
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayMarrakech $15Paris $27
Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:
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Wine$15
Sample the Local Flavors in Paris
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:
- City Center Guided Pub Crawl with Shots & Club Entry: $11
- Paris Pub Crawl: Party and Meet with International Travelers: $13
- Latin Quarter Guided Pub Crawl to Bars and Clubs: $16
- Original Paris Pub Crawl : $17
- Pub Crawl with Shots and Nightclub Entry: $22
- Paris Bar Crawl: $24
- Paris Latin Quarter Pub Crawl Bars and Clubs: $24
- Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $32
- Paris Gin Craft Distillery Tour and Tasting: $33
- Guided Visit and Wine Tasting in a Royal Wine Cellar in Paris: $40
- Paris St Germain Wine Tasting: $43
- French Rosé Wine Tasting in Paris: $44
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marrakech and Paris, we can see that Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Marrakech or Paris?
Paris has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Marrakech. When comparing the sizes of Marrakech and Paris, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.