A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. Marbella for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

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Should you visit Mykonos or Marbella?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mykonos and Marbella. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a party-oriented, ritzy, and opulent Greek island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Marbella

Marbella is a ritzy, glamorous, and fun-filled resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Mykonos and Marbella: Pros and Cons

Mykonos
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Marbella
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular old town


How is Mykonos different from Marbella?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Marbella and Mykonos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for Food?

Mykonos
Marbella

Most foodies will appreciate the restaurant options in Mykonos a bit more than Marbella.

Eat your way through Mykonos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

Marbella is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.


Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Marbella

Both Mykonos and Marbella are comparable when it comes to partying.

The nightlife in Mykonos is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

Marbella is a world class party destination. European tourists flock to the town for its beaches and resorts. The town has a glamorous nightlife scene with exclusive clubs and ritzy cocktail bars, particularly in Puerto Banus and along the Golden Mile.

Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Marbella

There are resorts to choose from in both Mykonos and Marbella.

Vacationers flock to Mykonos for its luxury resorts. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Marbella is a great choice. From luxury to family-friendly, this area has plenty of resorts to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano Marbella, and Don Carlos Resort and Spa.

Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Marbella

You'll find places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Mykonos and Marbella.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Marbella a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are more than 100 dive sights and endless snorkeling opportunities in the area. There are deep offshore reefs that you can explore as well as shallower wrecks and caves.

Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Marbella

Mykonos and Marbella both offer beautiful beaches.

Many people visit Mykonos for it's beautiful beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Marbella. The area boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. They are hubs of activity with lots of energy, and there are more than 18 miles of sandy beach in the area. Popular options include Guadalmina Beach, San Pedro de Alcántara Beach, and Nueva Andalucía Beach.


Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Marbella

While Marbella and Mykonos both have old towns, overall Mykonos is more well-known.

With a famous historical old-town, Mykonos offers plenty to see. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Marbella has an old town worth visiting. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for Shopping?

Mykonos
Marbella

Both Mykonos and Marbella are good shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Many people travel to Marbella specifically to go shopping. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for Families?

Mykonos
Marbella

Families may find more to do in Marbella than Mykonos.

Marbella is a very kid-friendly resort town. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Marbella

Mykonos and Marbella both fun destinations for a couple.

Mykonos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Marbella makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon.


Is Mykonos or Marbella Better for Public Transit?

Mykonos
Marbella

Both Mykonos and Marbella offer public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Public transit is mostly limited in Marbella. There is a bus system through the area, but most visitors prefer to get around by car.

Is Mykonos or Marbella a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Marbella

Mykonos and Marbella both are comparable when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Mykonos on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

Marbella is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable and there are a number of hotels and nice resorts within a short walk of the town along a nice promenade.

Which city is cheaper, Marbella or Mykonos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €119, while the average daily cost in Marbella is €93. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mykonos and Marbella in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos €59
    Marbella €49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos €118
    Marbella €98
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Marbella

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Marbella? 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 Mykonos


Hotels in Marbella


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: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Marbella Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos €19
    Marbella €19
Typical Local Transportation prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    €5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    €13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Vryssi area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Tourlos area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Tagoo area up to 6 customers: $121
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Super Paradise area up to 6 customers: $121
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Platis Yalos area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Paraga area up to 6 customers: $121
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Paradise area up to 6 customers: $121
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Kalo Livadi area up to 6 customers: $121
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Kalafatis area up to 6 customers: $121
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Glastros area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Ftelia area up to 6 customers: $121
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Elia area up to 6 customers: $121

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marbella

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

  • Marbella to Malaga Airport (AGP) - Departure Private Van Transfer: $45
  • Marbella to Malaga Airport (AGP) - Departure Private Car Transfer: $61
  • Departure Private Transfer Business Car Marbella to Malaga airport AGP: $62
  • Departure Private Transfer Luxury Van Marbella to Malaga airport AGP: $92
  • TRANSFER MALAGA AIRPORT from/to PUERTO BANUS-PRICE ALL INCUSIVE: $106
  • TRANSFER MALAGA AIRPORT from/to MARBELLA-PRICE ALL INCLUSIVE: $106
  • Private Transfer from Las Chapas to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $111
  • Private Transfer from Elviria to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $111
  • Private Transfer from Hotel Marbella Beach Resort to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $111
  • Private Transfer from Marbesa to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $111
  • Private Transfer from Lomas De Cabopino to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $111
  • Private Transfer from Los Monteros to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $122

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Marbella?

Prices for flights to both Marbella and Mykonos 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
    Mykonos €38
    Marbella €31
Typical Food prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    €4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

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

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $74
  • Mykonos Cooking Class: $159

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marbella

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

  • Cooking courses at home & online: $75
  • Tapas & Paella Cooking Course: $80
  • Food Tour: $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos €18
    Marbella €15

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Best of Mykonos island, 4 hours private tour: $281
  • Delos Tour 3 to 5 customers: $505
  • Delos Tour 6 to 10 customers: $329
  • From 6.5-Hour Cruise to Delos and Rhenia: $100
  • Mykonos Shore Excursion: City & Island Tour: $250
  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $40
  • Discover Authentic Mykonos Tour: $51
  • Full-Day Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Lunch: $318
  • Full-Day Sightseeing Tour with Lunch: $159
  • Half-Day City Walking Tour and Island Bus Tour: $44
  • Little Venice Sunset Cruise: $57
  • South Coast Beach Hopping Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch: $139

Tours and Activities in Marbella

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

  • Secrets of Marbella walking tour (Group): $19
  • Marbella small group walking Tour: $24
  • Marbella group walking tour: $32
  • Bike City Tour Marbella: $32
  • Full-Day Gibraltar Shopping Tour from the Costa del Sol: $33
  • Guided Wine and Tapas Bike Tour: $40
  • Marbella Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $41
  • Paddle Boarding Tour on the beautiful Marbella Coast: $49
  • Sunset SUP Tour in Marbella: $61
  • Can-am Route Experience: $77
  • Original Marbella Tapas Adventure: $86
  • Marbella Gourmet Tapas Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $88

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos €16
    Marbella €4.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Marbella

Also in Marbella, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Tour of the Old Town with Wine Tasting & Tapas: $112
  • E-Mountain Bike & Wine Tour from Marbella to Sierra Blanca: $123
  • Manilva & Gaucin Wine Tour from the Costa del Sol: $160
  • Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella: $210
  • VIP Wine Tour through the Guadalhorce Valley & Wolf Sanctuary Visit: $360
  • Ronda Private Wine Tour and Tapas from Marbella: $406
  • VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting and Gourmet Lunch Experience with Winemaker: $778

About these numbers

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

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Mykonos vs. Marbella Travel Comparison

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