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

Should you visit Marseille or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marseille or San Diego, 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a idyllic, fun-filled, and hip coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Marseille and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marseille or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego than Marseille, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Diego is more popular for its museums, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Marseille is known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. San Diego is more touristy than Marseille and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Marseille is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Marseille different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Diego 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 San Diego can be an interesting and educational experience. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marseille is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Marseille, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Marseille or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

Marseille is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

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.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Marseille or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Marseille is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, San Diego has diverse options. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Marseille is not a live music destination.

Is Marseille or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Marseille is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Marseille is not a resort destination.

Is Marseille or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

San Diego has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Marseille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marseille or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego 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 San Diego are among the best in the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific 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 San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Marseille is renowned for its old town. However, San Diego 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Marseille or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marseille or San Diego?

Marseille is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Marseille is well-known for its shopping. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Marseille or San Diego Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, San Diego 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.

San Diego does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Marseille or San Diego Better for Families?

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

San Diego is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marseille and San Diego are both good destinations for backpackers.

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

San Diego is a good city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Marseille or San Diego Better for Students?

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

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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

Marseille is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Marseille offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Marseille or San Diego a more walkable city?

Marseille is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Marseille?

How long in Marseille or San Diego?

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

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

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

One day in Marseille or San Diego?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint city of Marseille. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of San Diego. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 San Diego?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of San Diego. 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 coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Marseille or San Diego?

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

You'll find nightlife and live music around the relaxed coastal city of San Diego. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Marseille or San Diego?

Marseille is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marseille and San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego 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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marseille or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 54% larger than the population of Marseille. When comparing the sizes of Marseille and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marseille and San Diego. Many travelers come to Marseille for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marseille is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 24°C (75°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than San Diego during summer. Marseille gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marseille usually receives more rain than San Diego. Marseille gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marseille or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marseille as well as San Diego. Many visitors come to Marseille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Marseille is cooler than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. In the autumn, Marseille often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Marseille gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Marseille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marseille or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Marseille are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Marseille is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marseille in January average around 7°C (44°F), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Marseille usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Marseille gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marseille usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Diego. Marseille gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marseille or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Marseille during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Marseille because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In April, Marseille is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 13°C (56°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marseille. In the spring, Marseille often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Marseille gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Marseille usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Marseille gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Marseille