A Travel Price Comparison for France Marseille vs. Dijon for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Marseille or Dijon?

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

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

Dijon

Dijon is a cultural, laid-back, and culinary city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Marseille and Dijon: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Marseille or Dijon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Marseille than Dijon. Marseille is bigger than Dijon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Marseille is better known for its nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Dijon is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Marseille is well known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. Also, Marseille is famous for The Vieux Port. Dijon is well known for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards.

How is Marseille different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Marseille
Dijon

Dijon 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 Dijon can be an interesting and educational experience. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marseille
Dijon

Foodies will find both Marseille and Dijon both to be fantastic destinations.

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.

Many restaurants in Dijon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

Is Marseille or Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Marseille
Dijon

Marseille is terrific for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Marseille is a must-see party destination. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Marseille or Dijon Better for Beaches?

Marseille
Dijon

Marseille is a popular place for its beaches. However, Dijon is not a beach destination.

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

Dijon is not a beach destination.


Is Marseille or Dijon Better for its Old Town?

Marseille
Dijon

Marseille is terrific for its historic old town. However, Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Marseille has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marseille or Dijon?

Marseille
Dijon

Marseille is notable for shopping. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Marseille or Dijon Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille
Dijon

Marseille is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Dijon does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Marseille. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Dijon does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Marseille or Dijon Better for Families?

Marseille
Dijon

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

Dijon is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

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 Dijon Better for Couples?

Marseille
Dijon

Marseille and Dijon are both very good to visit as a couple.

Marseille makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Couples visit Dijon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

Is Marseille or Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marseille
Dijon

Marseille and Dijon are both notable destinations for backpackers.

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

Dijon is a good city to visit for backpackers. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.


Is Marseille or Dijon Better for Students?

Marseille
Dijon

Marseille is notable for students. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Marseille is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Plenty of students visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

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

Marseille
Dijon

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

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 Dijon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

Is Marseille or Dijon a more walkable city?

Marseille
Dijon

Marseille is notable for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Marseille?

How long in Marseille or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Marseille or Dijon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dijon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Marseille, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dijon.

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

Couples should spend more time in Marseille than Dijon. 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 Dijon 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 Dijon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marseille 2-3 
    Dijon 2-4

One day in Marseille or Dijon?

In Marseille, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 shopping and museums around the city of Dijon. 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 Dijon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Dijon. 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 Dijon?

Marseille is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Marseille. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Dijon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Marseille or Dijon?

You'll find nightlife and food around the vibrant destination of Marseille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dijon 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Dijon 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 Dijon is €153. 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 Dijon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marseille 71
    Dijon 80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marseille 142
    Dijon 160
Compare Hotels in Marseille and Dijon

Looking for a hotel in Marseille or Dijon? 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 Dijon


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 Dijon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marseille 28
    Dijon 36
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:

  • Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal to Marseille - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Private Transfer from Marseille Airport (MRS) to Marseille Port: $35
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to Marseille - Arrival Private Transfer: $35
  • Marseille Terminal to Marseille Airport Departure Transfer: $35
  • Private Airport Transfer in Marseille from Marseille Provence airport, Marignane: $66
  • Private Transfer: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) to Marseille: $70
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to (MPCT) Marseille Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $71
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to Marseille- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $71
  • Private Transfer from Marseille Airport to Aix-en-Provence: $75
  • Marseille Airport transfers: $76
  • Private Transfer With an Electric Car in Marseille: $77
  • Aéroport Marseille Marignane : transfert Marseille centre: $81

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dijon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dijon:

  • 2 Hour Private Tour of Dijon - with Hotel Transfer: $433

Is it cheaper to fly into Marseille or Dijon?

Prices for flights to both Dijon 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
    Dijon 48
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:

  • Bakeries,Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $67
  • Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $75
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $87
  • Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $87
  • E-Bike and Food Tour: $92
  • Sunset Apéro Food tour: $97
  • Marseille Food Tour - Bakeries, Chocolate and Patisseries: $99
  • Sunset Sailing Dinner in the Frioul Archipelago: $103
  • Evening Food Tour with Tastings: $103
  • Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $103
  • Marseille Miam Miam Food tour: $105
  • Marseille Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marseille 38
    Dijon 25

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: $3.26
  • Marseille:Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.34
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.34
  • Marseille Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.50
  • Panier District Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $8.68
  • Self-guided Like a Local Highlights Day Tour: $9.66
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Game & Sightseeing: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Humorous and Informative Tour of the Historic Center of La Ciotat: $11
  • Mucem Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Dijon

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dijon are as follows:

  • DIJON : Private Walking Tour: $179
  • Dijon : City Walking Tour with Audio Guide (Office Tourisme): $7.60
  • Dijon City Tour : Highlights Tour with Gourmet Break: $61
  • Dijon Private Guided Walking Tour: $299
  • Dijon private guided city tour: $382
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour through the City: $5.99
  • Bike tour and Tastings in the Vineyards of Burgundy: $72
  • City Tour with a French-speaking Guide: $13
  • Historic Guided Walking Tour: $390
  • Half Day Tour of the Cote de Nuits Vineyards from Dijon: $97
  • More than just Mustard: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Dijon: $5.99
  • Private city tour - Dijon the essential - 2h: $239

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marseille 27
    Dijon 29

Sample the Local Flavors in Marseille

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

  • Marseille Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $28
  • Marseille Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $36
  • Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $97
  • New Year's Eve Bar Crawl Marseille France: $98
  • Bandol and Cassis: Full Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $146
  • Luberon: Full-Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $146
  • Full-day Wine Tour around Bandol & Cassis from Marseille: $148
  • Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion : Avignon & Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour: $151
  • From Provence Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting: $163
  • Côtes du Rhône Wine tour: Avignon, Palace of the Popes: $165
  • Marseille Shore Excursion - Full Day Wine Tour in Provence: $166
  • From Bandol and Cassis Wine Tasting Tour: $179

Sample the Local Flavors in Dijon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dijon:

  • Wine Tasting in Dijon - Masterclass Pinot Noir: $39
  • Wine Tasting in Dijon - Chardonnay Masterclass: $39
  • Cheese and Wine Tasting of Burgundy: $49
  • La Cave du Palais Burgundy Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Wine Tasting Workshop with Tastings: $65
  • Small-Group Burgundy Tour with Wine Tastings from Dijon: $74


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


Which is Bigger, Marseille or Dijon?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Dijon. When comparing the sizes of Marseille and Dijon, 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 Dijon?

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 Dijon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marseille as well as Dijon. Many visitors come to Marseille in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Dijon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Marseille is a little warmer than Dijon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marseille in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Dijon averages at about 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dijon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. In the summer, Marseille often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Marseille gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets less rain in July than Dijon. Marseille gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marseille 24°C (75°F) 
    Dijon 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Marseille or Dijon in the Autumn?

Both Dijon and Marseille are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Dijon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Marseille is generally a little warmer than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 16°C (61°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during autumn. Marseille gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Marseille usually receives more rain than Dijon. Marseille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marseille 16°C (61°F) 
    Dijon 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Marseille or Dijon in the Winter?

Both Dijon and Marseille during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Marseille because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dijon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Dijon in the winter. Marseille is much warmer than Dijon in the winter. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Dijon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Marseille often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Marseille gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets less rain in January than Dijon. Marseille gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marseille 7°C (44°F) 
    Dijon 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Marseille or Dijon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marseille and Dijon. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marseille this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dijon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Marseille is a little warmer than Dijon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marseille in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Dijon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during spring. Marseille gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marseille usually receives less rain than Dijon. Marseille gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marseille 13°C (56°F) 
    Dijon 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Dijon and Marseille

Marseille Dijon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)