A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Marbella for Nightlife, Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Marbella 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a authentic, vibrant, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Marbella

Marbella is a fun-filled, high energy, and ritzy 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.

Thiva (Thebes) and Marbella: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marbella than Thiva (Thebes), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Marbella is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Thiva (Thebes) is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Marbella is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Also, Marbella is famous for Plaza de los Naranjos. Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Marbella?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Thiva (Thebes) is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Thiva (Thebes) can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Marbella offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Thiva (Thebes). It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Marbella is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for Music?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a live music destination.

Marbella has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a live music destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for Resorts?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is very popular for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.

Marbella is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Marbella is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is very popular for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Marbella is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is a resort town with good options for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Marbella to see the old town. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Marbella make it a world-class shopping destination. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Marbella is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is a resort town with good options for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Marbella is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels in the area for backpackers who want to enjoy this part of Spain's cost. There's also a lively nightlife scene and plenty of opportunities to meet others.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Thiva (Thebes) is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Thiva (Thebes) has some public transit options. There are local buses in the area.

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


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Marbella

Marbella is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Marbella is a very walkable resort town. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Marbella Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marbella or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Marbella than Thiva (Thebes) 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 Marbella.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Marbella 2-5

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

The city of Thiva (Thebes) offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Marbella, you'll find nightlife and live music. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

Thiva (Thebes) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Thiva (Thebes), a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Marbella is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

Thiva (Thebes) is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marbella. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

Thiva (Thebes) is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the resort town of Marbella. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Marbella or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Marbella is €117. 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Marbella in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Marbella 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Marbella 122
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Marbella

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes)


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: Marbella Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Marbella 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marbella

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

  • Costa del Sol: Private 1-Way Transfer to/from Malaga Airport: $75
  • From Malaga: Private Transfer Malaga Airport to Marbella: $235
  • Private Transfer from Algarrobo to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $109
  • Private Transfer from Alhaurín El Grande to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $67
  • Private Transfer from Benahavís to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $131
  • Private Transfer from Benajarafe to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $70
  • Private Transfer from Benamargosa to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $120
  • Private Transfer from Benaoján to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $214
  • Private Transfer from Estepona to Malaga (AGP) airport: $155
  • Private Transfer from Fuengirola to Malaga (AGP) airport: $64
  • Private Transfer from Guadalmina to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $131
  • Private Transfer from La Quinta Golf Resort to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $132

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

Prices for flights to both Marbella and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Marbella 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marbella

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

  • Food Tour: $87
  • Gourmet Cooking Class & Culture in the rural Montes de Malaga.: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Marbella 19

Tours and Activities in Marbella

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

  • Discover the Old Town through a Self-Guided Tour: $4.60
  • Marbella Old Town Walking Tour : $15
  • Sightseeing Walking Tour: $21
  • Guided tour and olive oil tasting in Alhaurin el Grande (Málaga) : $22
  • Marbella Old Town: Group Tour with a True Local: $24
  • Marbella Old Town group tour with a True Local: $24
  • group walking Tour: $26
  • Explore Marbella Old Town: Tapas Tasting Adventure: $27
  • Marbella like a Local: Customized Guided Tour: $32
  • Bike City Tour Marbella: $32
  • Dolphin Watching Adventure in Estepona Bay: $38
  • Canyoning Experience Near Marbella (Benahavís River Walk): $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Marbella 5.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Marbella

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

  • Manilva & Gaucin Wine Tour from the Costa del Sol: $152
  • From Manilva Sunset Wine Tasting Tour with Tapas: $159
  • Ronda Full Day Wine Tour from Marbella: $195
  • From Antequera Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $213
  • From Axarquia Wine Tour with Wine Pairing Lunch: $234
  • Full-Day Private Ronda Wine Tour Experience from Marbella: $262
  • VIP Ronda Wine Tour and Tasting and Gourmet Lunch Experience with Winemaker: $271


When comparing the travel costs between Thiva (Thebes) and Marbella, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Marbella Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) and Marbella, 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Marbella. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Marbella in the summer. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Marbella fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 348 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets more rain in July than Marbella. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Marbella 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella in the Autumn?

Both Marbella and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marbella this time of year.

In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Marbella. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Marbella averages at about 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella during autumn. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Marbella. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Marbella 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella in the Winter?

Both Marbella and Thiva (Thebes) during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) is generally cooler than Marbella. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 10°C (51°F), and Marbella fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) often gets less sunshine than Marbella. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 171 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in January than Marbella. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Marbella 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Marbella in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Marbella. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Marbella in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Marbella in the spring. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Marbella fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella during spring. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Marbella. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Marbella 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Marbella and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Marbella
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in)