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

Should you visit Nagano or Marseille?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nagano and Marseille can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nagano

Nagano is a scenic, historic, and traditional city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

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.

Nagano and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Marseille?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Nagano than Marseille. While Marseille is larger than Nagano, Nagano has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Nagano is more popular for its skiing, museums, resorts, hiking, and big city activities, while Marseille is known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Nagano is popular for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also home to Zenko-ji Temple. Marseille is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Nagano different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for Skiing?

Nagano is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Marseille is not a skiing destination.

Nagano draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Marseille is not a skiing destination.

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

Nagano 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 Nagano can be an interesting and educational experience. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marseille is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Marseille have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

Dining out in Nagano is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Marseille is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Marseille is a must-see 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.

Nagano offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for Resorts?

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

Nagano has a few great resort options. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Marseille is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for Beaches?

Marseille is a city with good options for the beache. However, Nagano 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.

Nagano is not a beach destination.

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Marseille is terrific for its old town. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Marseille has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Nagano offers a nice historic old town area. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for Hiking?

Nagano 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 Nagano. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Marseille?

Marseille is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice 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 Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Nagano does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for Families?

Nagano is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nagano. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

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 Nagano or Marseille Better for Couples?

Marseille is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Marseille is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nagano and Marseille are good places to visit.

Nagano is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

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

Is Nagano or Marseille Better for Students?

Marseille is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Marseille. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Nagano is a good city to visit for students. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

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

Nagano and Marseille both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Nagano offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

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

Is Nagano or Marseille a more walkable city?

Marseille is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nagano and Marseille. In our opinion, Marseille has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Marseille than Nagano. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagano, and 2-3 days is enough time in Marseille.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Marseille than Nagano 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 Marseille.

One day in Nagano or Marseille?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the city of Nagano. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagano has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Marseille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Marseille?

You'll find nightlife and food around the traditional destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Marseille is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagano or Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic city of Nagano. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nagano or Marseille?

Nagano is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Marseille. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Nagano 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.

When is the best time to visit Nagano or Marseille?

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 Nagano or Marseille in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Marseille. Most visitors come to Nagano for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Marseille because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nagano is around the same temperature as Marseille. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nagano in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Marseille averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during summer. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagano usually receives more rain than Marseille. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagano or Marseille in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Marseille. The autumn months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

In October, Nagano is generally around the same temperature as Marseille. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 16°C (60°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. In the autumn, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagano usually gets more rain in October than Marseille. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Marseille in the Winter?

Both Marseille and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Nagano in the winter. Nagano is much colder than Marseille in the winter. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Marseille fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Marseille during winter. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. In January, Nagano usually receives more rain than Marseille. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nagano or Marseille in the Spring?

Both Marseille and Nagano during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Marseille in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nagano is cooler than Marseille. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nagano in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Marseille averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun.

Nagano usually gets more rain in April than Marseille. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Marseille and Nagano