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

Should you visit Marseille or Milan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marseille or Milan, 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. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Milan

Milan is a chic, cultural, and trendy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Marseille and Milan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marseille or Milan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Milan than Marseille. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Milan is very popular for its museums, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Marseille attracts visitors for its beaches, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Marseille is more touristy than Milan and is known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. Milan is famous for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also well known for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Marseille different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Milan 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 Milan can be an interesting and educational experience. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Marseille and Milan both to be first-rate 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 Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Is Marseille or Milan Better for Nightlife?

Both Marseille and Milan 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 Milan is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Is Marseille or Milan Better for Music?

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

Milan has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Marseille is not a live music destination.

Is Marseille or Milan Better for Beaches?

Marseille is a city with good options for the beach. However, Milan is not a beach destination.

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.

Milan is not a beach destination.

Is Marseille or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Marseille and Milan both have first-rate historical old towns that attract visitors.

The historic old town of Marseille is revered around 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.

With a famous historical old-town, Milan offers plenty to see. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Marseille or Milan?

Milan 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 Milan specifically to go shopping. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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 Milan Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a city with good options for visiting Christmas markets. However, Milan 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.

Milan does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Marseille or Milan Better for Families?

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

Milan is a family-friendly city. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

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 Milan Better for Couples?

Marseille and Milan are both high quality 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 Milan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Marseille or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Milan 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 Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

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 Milan Better for Students?

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

Milan is a great destination for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

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

Milan is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Milan can get you around easily. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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 Milan a more walkable city?

Milan is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Milan. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Milan or Marseille?

How long in Marseille or Milan?

In either Marseille or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Milan than Marseille because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Marseille, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milan 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 Milan.

One day in Marseille or Milan?

In Marseille, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this energetic 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.

People visit Milan because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milan has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Marseille or Milan?

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.

People visit Milan because there is so much to do. 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.

Five days in Marseille or Milan?

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.

People visit Milan 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 Milan?

You'll find nightlife and food around the energetic 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.

Milan 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.

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Marseille or Milan?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Marseille. When comparing the sizes of Marseille and Milan, 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 Milan?

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 Milan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marseille and Milan. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marseille this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Milan for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marseille is around the same temperature as Milan in the summer. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Milan fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Milan this time of the year. In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Milan during summer. Marseille gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marseille usually receives less rain than Milan. Marseille gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marseille or Milan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marseille as well as Milan. Many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Milan in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marseille is around the same temperature as Milan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marseille in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Milan averages at about 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. In the autumn, Marseille often gets more sunshine than Milan. Marseille gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Milan. Marseille usually gets less rain in October than Milan. Marseille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marseille or Milan in the Winter?

Both Milan and Marseille are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marseille in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Milan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Milan can be very cold during winter. In January, Marseille is generally a little warmer than Milan. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 7°C (44°F), and Milan fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Milan during winter. Marseille gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marseille usually receives less rain than Milan. Marseille gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marseille or Milan in the Spring?

Both Milan and Marseille during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marseille for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Milan because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Marseille is around the same temperature as Milan in the spring. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Milan fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. In the spring, Marseille often gets more sunshine than Milan. Marseille gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 176 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets less rain in April than Milan. Marseille gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Milan and Marseille