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

Should you visit Mykonos or Marseille?

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 Marseille. 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 postcard perfect, glamourous, and party-oriented Greek island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Mykonos and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Marseille?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Mykonos than Marseille. While Marseille is larger than Mykonos, Mykonos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mykonos is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Marseille is known for its christmas markets. Mykonos is more touristy than Marseille and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. It is also home to the traditional windmills near Chora. Marseille is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Mykonos different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mykonos or Marseille?

Mykonos
Marseille

Mykonos is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Mykonos
Marseille

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Marseille can be an enjoyable experience.

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.

For foodies, Marseille is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

Is Mykonos or Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Marseille

Both Mykonos and Marseille are world-class 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.

Marseille is a world class 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.

Is Mykonos or Marseille Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Marseille

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Marseille is not a resort destination.

Mykonos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Marseille is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Marseille Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Marseille

Mykonos is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Marseille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Mykonos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Marseille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Marseille Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Marseille

Mykonos is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mykonos. 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.

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 Mykonos or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Marseille

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Mykonos and Marseille.

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.

The rich history of Marseille can be explored in its historical center. 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.


Is Mykonos or Marseille Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Marseille

Mykonos is not a good area for its hiking trails. However, Marseille is not a hiking destination.

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Marseille?

Mykonos
Marseille

Mykonos 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 Mykonos specifically to go shopping. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

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 Mykonos or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Mykonos
Marseille

Marseille is a good destination for its Christmas markets. However, Mykonos 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.

Mykonos does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Mykonos or Marseille Better for Families?

Mykonos
Marseille

Most people don't think of either Mykonos or Marseille as a family destination.

Mykonos is not the most family-friendly destination. 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.

Marseille is not always a place people visit with their families. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Mykonos or Marseille Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Marseille

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

Mykonos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

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 Mykonos or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Marseille

Marseille is a good destination for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Marseille. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.


Is Mykonos or Marseille Better for Students?

Mykonos
Marseille

Marseille is a well-known place for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

Many students visit Marseille. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Mykonos
Marseille

Both Mykonos and Marseille offer good 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.

Marseille has some public transit options. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Is Mykonos or Marseille a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Marseille

Mykonos 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 Mykonos. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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 Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mykonos and Marseille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mykonos than in Marseille. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Marseille.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Mykonos or Marseille? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Marseille 2-3

One day in Mykonos or Marseille?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint Greek island of Mykonos. 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.

In Marseille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Mykonos or Marseille?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the ritzy destination of Mykonos. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Marseille, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marseille has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Marseille?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the glamourous Greek island of Mykonos. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this Greek island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this Greek island has to offer.

Marseille is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Mykonos or Marseille?

Mykonos is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Marseille. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Marseille or Mykonos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €149, while the average daily cost in Marseille is €148. 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 Mykonos and Marseille in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Marseille 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Marseille 142
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Marseille

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Marseille? 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 Marseille


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 Marseille Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Marseille 28
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 services and Tours: $88
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Ftelia area up to 6 customers: $77
  • Transfer Service in Mykonos: $44
  • Schatz Luxury Transfer : $88
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel-mini van: $65
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel-mini bus: $76
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel with Sedan: $54
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with minivan: $65
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with minibus: $76
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with Sedan: $54
  • Private Transfer:From your hotel to Windmills with mini van: $65
  • Private Transfer:From your hotel to Windmills with mini bus: $76

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Marseille?

Prices for flights to both Marseille 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 48
    Marseille 42
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: $71
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $102
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $109
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $110
  • 5 Hours Sunset Tour to Delos and Rhenia Island with Dinner : $144
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $163
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $166
  • Private Authentic Greek Brunch Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Local: $254
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $287
  • Private Cooking Class At The Home Of A Mykonian Family: $619

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.
    Mykonos 23
    Marseille 38

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • All Inclusive Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with S/Y Olga M: $155
  • Mykonos Gems for the First Time Cruise Visitors: $85
  • Mykonos Island Tour: $84
  • "Mykonos Private Tour: Town Wonders & Beach Break : $220
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $39
  • 4 Hour Private Island Tour in Mykonos - Mykonos in a day: $166
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $155
  • All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation): $155
  • Ancient Delos and Rhenia Island Cruise from Tourlos: $110
  • Best of Mykonos Island 4-Hour Private Tour: $293
  • Captivating Love Tour Around Mykonos: $193
  • Catamaran Day & Sunset Cruises with meals Drinks and transportation: $133

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Marseille 27

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

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

  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $74
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $75
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $81
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $83
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $130
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $130
  • Luxurious All-in-One Mykonos Party Tour with Wine Tasting: $165

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


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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Mykonos. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Marseille, 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.