A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tokyo vs. Marrakech for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tokyo or Marrakech?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Marrakech? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a eclectic, cutting edge, and high tech city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Marrakech

Marrakech is a fascinating, ancient, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo and Marrakech: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Marrakech?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Marrakech than Tokyo. While Tokyo is larger than Marrakech, Marrakech has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Marrakech is very popular for its historical sights, while Tokyo attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities. Marrakech is more touristy than Tokyo and is known for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. It is also well known for Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Tokyo is famous for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks.

How is Tokyo different from Marrakech?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tokyo or Marrakech?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tokyo has many famous sights for visitors. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Many visitors head to Marrakech specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While wandering the medina is an attraction in and of itself, there are also several sights that you should specifically check out. The iconic Djemaa el-Fnaa, or the city's main square, is best visited as the sun goes down. Other notable landmarks include Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle Gardens, and Medersa Ben Youssef.

Is the Food Better in Tokyo or Marrakech? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Tokyo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Marrakech makes for a great culinary experience. Moroccan food is amazing and you'll enjoy grilled meats, tagines, couscous, and more. The city is more touristy than some parts of Morocco so you'll find the quality of the food can vary a bit, but it's still a culinary delight. Marrakesh is also a great city for taking a cooking class.

Is Tokyo or Marrakech Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

The nightlife in Tokyo is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Marrakech has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Although alcohol is hard to come by, you'll find it in most western style restaurants and high end hotel chains. The city has more bars and nightclubs than you'd expect. There's also a great nighttime energy with many locals heading outside in the evening. Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, comes to life with street vendors, performers, and people during the nighttime hours.

Is Tokyo or Marrakech Better for Music?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Marrakech is not a live music destination.

Tokyo has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Marrakech is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Marrakech Better for its Old Town?

Marrakech is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Marrakech is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic medina is filled with spices, antiques, art, and pottery. The culture and experience of wandering the medina will have you feeling like you stepped back in time.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Marrakech?

If you're looking to go shopping, Tokyo and Marrakech both offer plenty of first-rate spots.

Many people travel to Tokyo specifically to go shopping. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Marrakech is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shop your way through the street stalls and sample perfumes, spices, produce, and more. You'll find everything from souvenir trinkets to local items and authentic antiques.

Is Tokyo or Marrakech Better for Families?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tokyo is a very family-friendly destination. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Marrakech is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring a new culture and wandering through the medina. The food is very kid-friendly and during the evening the main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, comes to life with street performers, vendors, and entertainment. Families can also take cooking classes or head into the desert for a camel trek.

Is Tokyo or Marrakech Better for Couples?

Marrakech is renowned for couples. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Marrakech makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. There are many wonderful restaurants and fascinating places for couples to explores. Wandering the medina or visiting the gardens make for a romantic and adventurous getaway.

Tokyo is a very popular place to visit for couples. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Is Tokyo or Marrakech Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marrakech is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Marrakech, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is very affordable and there are countless riads that are budget-friendly. There are enough backpackers around town that it's not hard to meet fellow travelers.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Tokyo or Marrakech Better for Students?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Marrakech is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Marrakech is not popular with students.

Is Tokyo or Marrakech Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.

Visitors in Tokyo can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marrakech. While there are local buses, most people take taxis around town when they can't walk. Taxis are affordable and convenient.

Is Tokyo or Marrakech a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Tokyo. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Marrakech is very walkable. The medina is the best area to walk around but it's very easy to get lost. Outside of the medina you'll want to keep your eyes open for motorbikes and the occasional donkey.

For even more information, also check out Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marrakech or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Marrakech?

Both Tokyo and Marrakech have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Tokyo has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Tokyo than Marrakech. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Marrakech 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 Tokyo.

One day in Tokyo or Marrakech?

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. 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 Marrakech, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tokyo or Marrakech?

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marrakech. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tokyo or Marrakech?

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Marrakech is a fun place to experience. In Marrakech, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tokyo or Marrakech?

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Marrakech, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this high-energy big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Morocco.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Marrakech?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Marrakech. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Marrakech, 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.