A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marseille vs. Barcelona for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Marseille or Barcelona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marseille or Barcelona, 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.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a laid-back, historic, and cultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Marseille and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marseille or Barcelona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Marseille. Barcelona is bigger than Marseille, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is better known for its museums, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Marseille is more popular for its food, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Barcelona is more touristy than Marseille and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Marseille is well known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Marseille different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marseille or Barcelona?

Barcelona is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Barcelona can be an interesting and educational experience. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Marseille or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Marseille is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Marseille have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Both Marseille and Barcelona have first-rate vibes after the sun sets.

People head to Marseille just to party. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

The nightlife in Barcelona is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Marseille is not a live music destination.

Barcelona has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Marseille is not a live music destination.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Both Marseille and Barcelona have notable beaches worth visiting.

Marseille has a beach worth visiting. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Barcelona. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Marseille is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Marseille is one of the most recognized in the world. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Marseille or Barcelona?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Barcelona specifically to go shopping. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Marseille is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Barcelona does not offer Christmas markets.

Marseille is a nice place to see Christmas markets. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Barcelona does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for Families?

Barcelona is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Marseille is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Marseille is a very popular place to visit for couples. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Barcelona, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Marseille is a good city to visit for backpackers. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Barcelona is a great destination for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Students come from all over to stay in Marseille. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Is Marseille or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you to most places easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

You'll find some public transit in Marseille, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Is Marseille or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Marseille is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Marseille is very walkable. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Marseille Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Marseille?

How long in Marseille or Barcelona?

Both Marseille and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Marseille. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Marseille, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Marseille 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 Barcelona.

One day in Marseille or Barcelona?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint city of Marseille. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Marseille or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Marseille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Marseille or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic city of Marseille. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Marseille or Barcelona?

Marseille is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, 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 Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Marseille and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Marseille or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 99% larger than the population of Marseille. When comparing the sizes of Marseille and Barcelona, 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 Marseille or Barcelona?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marseille or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marseille as well as Barcelona. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marseille this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marseille is around the same temperature as Barcelona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marseille in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Barcelona averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. In the summer, Marseille often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Marseille gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets less rain in July than Barcelona. Marseille gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marseille or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Marseille are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Marseille is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 16°C (61°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Marseille gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Marseille usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Marseille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marseille or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Marseille during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marseille in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Marseille is cooler than Barcelona in the winter. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Marseille often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona. Marseille gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Barcelona. Marseille gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marseille or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marseille and Barcelona. Most visitors come to Marseille for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Marseille is around the same temperature as Barcelona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marseille in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Barcelona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Marseille gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marseille usually receives around the same amount of rain as Barcelona. Marseille gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Marseille