A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marseille vs. Brescia for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Marseille or Brescia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marseille or Brescia, 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. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Brescia

Brescia is a historic, undisovered, and authentic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Marseille and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Marseille or Brescia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Marseille than Brescia. Marseille is bigger than Brescia, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Marseille is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Brescia is more popular for its museums. Marseille is more touristy than Brescia and is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. Also, Marseille is famous for The Vieux Port. Brescia is well known for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Marseille different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Marseille
Brescia

Brescia is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Brescia. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marseille
Brescia

Marseille is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Marseille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

Brescia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Marseille or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Marseille
Brescia

Marseille is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Marseille is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Marseille or Brescia Better for Beaches?

Marseille
Brescia

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Brescia is not a beach destination.

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.

Brescia is not a beach destination.


Is Marseille or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Marseille
Brescia

Marseille is renowned for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic 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.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marseille or Brescia?

Marseille
Brescia

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Marseille and Brescia.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Marseille. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Brescia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Is Marseille or Brescia Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille
Brescia

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Brescia does not offer Christmas markets.

Marseille has Christmas markets worth visiting. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Brescia does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Marseille or Brescia Better for Families?

Marseille
Brescia

Neither Marseille nor Brescia are considered to be the most family-friendly destination.

Marseille is not always a place people visit with their families. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Brescia doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Marseille or Brescia Better for Couples?

Marseille
Brescia

Marseille is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Marseille frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.

Is Marseille or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marseille
Brescia

Marseille is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Marseille. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.


Is Marseille or Brescia Better for Students?

Marseille
Brescia

Marseille is well known for students. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Marseille is a great city to visit as a student. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

It's common for students to visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

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

Marseille
Brescia

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Marseille and Brescia.

Marseille has some public transit options. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

You'll find some public transit in Brescia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

Is Marseille or Brescia a more walkable city?

Marseille
Brescia

Marseille is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.


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

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Marseille?

How long in Marseille or Brescia?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Marseille than Brescia. 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 Marseille than Brescia 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 Marseille.


  • How many days in Marseille or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marseille 2-3 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Marseille or Brescia?

In Marseille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 shopping and museums around the city of Brescia. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brescia has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Marseille or Brescia?

In Marseille, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marseille has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Brescia. 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.

Five days in Marseille or Brescia?

Marseille is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic city of Brescia. 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 Marseille or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Marseille. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Brescia 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 Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Marseille?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Marseille is €148, while the average daily cost in Brescia is €144. 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 Marseille and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marseille 71
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marseille 142
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Marseille and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Marseille or Brescia? 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 Marseille


Hotels in Brescia


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: Marseille Hotel Prices and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marseille 28
    Brescia 19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Marseille

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Marseille:


  • Metro Pass
    3.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marseille

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

  • “Airport-Marseille Center Transfers: Luxury and Comfort VTC.”: $87
  • Airport Marseille Transfer to Marseille Old Port: $91
  • Aix en Provence-Transfer from or to Marseille Airport: $102
  • Arles-Transfer From or To Airport MARSEILLE: $218
  • Arrival Private Transfer Marseille Airport MRS to Marseille city or Port by Van: $101
  • Arrival Transfer: MRS Airport to Marseille in Business Car: $109
  • Cannes Private Transfer to Marseille Airport: $642
  • Departure Private Transfer Marseille city or Port to Marseile Airport MRS by Van: $101
  • Departure Private Transfer from Marseille city to Marseille Cruise Port by Van: $101
  • Departure Transfer: Marseille to MRS Airport in Business Car: $109
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Marseille Hotel or Address): $215
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to (MPCT) Marseille Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Marseille or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Marseille 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
    Marseille 42
    Brescia 47
Typical Food Prices in Marseille

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


  • Orangina
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marseille

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

  • Web-cooking workshop / French cuisine or French pastry: $35
  • No Diet Club - Unique food tour in Marseille! (Cours Julien): $63
  • Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $74
  • Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $86
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $86
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $93
  • Sunset Apéro Food tour: $95
  • Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $97
  • Marseille Sunset Apéro Food tour: $97
  • Evening Food Tour with Tastings: $102
  • Sunset Sailing Dinner in the Frioul Archipelago: $102
  • Marseille Miam Miam Food tour: $104

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brescia.

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marseille 38
    Brescia 31

Tours and Activities in Marseille

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Marseille:Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • Marseille Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Marseille Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Self-guided Like a Local Highlights Day Tour: $9.52
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Game & Sightseeing: $9.84
  • Panier District Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Humorous and Informative Tour of the Historic Center of La Ciotat: $11
  • Mucem Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $12

Tours and Activities in Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $402
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $223
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114
  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Brescia’s Historic Heart: A Family Exploration Tour: $288
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $386
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $197
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Christmastime Walking Tour: $719
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $118
  • CSTRents - Brescia Segway PT Authorized Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marseille 27
    Brescia 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Marseille

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

  • Marseille Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $21
  • Marseille Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $22
  • Marseille Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party: $43
  • New Year's Eve Bar Crawl Marseille France: $96
  • Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Bandol and Cassis: Full Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $143
  • Luberon: Full-Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $143
  • Full-day Wine Tour around Bandol & Cassis from Marseille: $146
  • Full-Day Wine Tour around Luberon from Marseille: $146
  • Côtes du Rhône Wine tour: Avignon, Palace of the Popes: $164
  • Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion : Avignon & Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour: $164
  • Marseille Shore Excursion - Full Day Wine Tour in Provence: $164

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


When comparing the travel costs between Marseille and Brescia, we can see that Marseille 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 Brescia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marseille or Brescia?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Brescia. When comparing the sizes of Marseille and Brescia, 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 Brescia?

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 Brescia in the Summer?

Both Brescia and Marseille during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Marseille because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

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

In Brescia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marseille. In the summer, Marseille often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Marseille gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets less rain in July than Brescia. Marseille gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marseille 24°C (75°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Marseille or Brescia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marseille and Brescia. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marseille this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Marseille is generally a little warmer than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 16°C (61°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during autumn. Marseille gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Marseille usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brescia. Marseille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marseille 16°C (61°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Marseille or Brescia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marseille as well as Brescia. Many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Brescia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Brescia can get quite cold in the winter. Marseille is much warmer than Brescia in the winter. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Marseille often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Marseille gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets less rain in January than Brescia. Marseille gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marseille 7°C (44°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Marseille or Brescia in the Spring?

Both Brescia and Marseille are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marseille in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Brescia for the natural beauty during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during spring. Marseille gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marseille usually receives less rain than Brescia. Marseille gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marseille 13°C (56°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Marseille

Marseille Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)