A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marseille vs. Los Angeles for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Marseille or Los Angeles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marseille or Los Angeles, 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a glamourous, diverse, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Marseille and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marseille or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Marseille. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Marseille attracts visitors for its historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Los Angeles is more touristy than Marseille and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood. Marseille is famous for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Marseille different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Los Angeles has many famous sights for visitors. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Marseille is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Marseille is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Marseille and Los Angeles both to be world-class 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 Los Angeles have been singled out for their culinary prowess. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Both Marseille and Los Angeles have world-class 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 Los Angeles is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for Music?

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

Los Angeles has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Marseille is not a live music destination.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Marseille is not a resort destination.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Marseille is not a resort destination.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Marseille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Marseille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Marseille. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for its Old Town?

Marseille is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Los Angeles draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marseille or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles specifically to go shopping. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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 Los Angeles Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Los Angeles does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Marseille. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Los Angeles does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Los Angeles has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date 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.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles Better for Students?

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

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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 Los Angeles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Marseille and Los Angeles.

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 Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Marseille or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Marseille is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Marseille?

How long in Marseille or Los Angeles?

Both Marseille and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Marseille. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Marseille, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Marseille or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic city of Marseille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the energetic destination of Marseille. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Los Angeles?

The energetic city of Marseille offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

People visit Los Angeles 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. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Marseille or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Marseille. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marseille and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Marseille much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Marseille is in Europe and Los Angeles is in North America, 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 Marseille would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marseille 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Marseille.

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

Which is Bigger, Marseille or Los Angeles?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marseille or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Marseille are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marseille for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marseille is around the same temperature as Los Angeles in the summer. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In July, Marseille usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Marseille gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marseille or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and Marseille during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marseille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Marseille is cooler than Los Angeles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marseille in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 64°F (18°C).

Marseille usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Marseille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marseille or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marseille and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In January, Marseille is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 7°C (44°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In January, Marseille usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. Marseille gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marseille or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marseille as well as Los Angeles. The spring months attract visitors to Marseille because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

Marseille is cooler than Los Angeles in the spring. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

Marseille usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Marseille gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Marseille