A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Marbella for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Beijing 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 Beijing 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.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Beijing is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Beijing travel costs.

Marbella

Marbella is a fun-filled, high energy, and ritzy resort town. With stunning beauty, Marbella attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Marbella travel costs.

Beijing and Marbella: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Marbella?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beijing than Marbella, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Beijing is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and big city activities, while Marbella is known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Marbella and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife.

How is Beijing different from Marbella?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Marbella?

Beijing is very popular for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Beijing are world-renowned. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Beijing or Marbella? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Beijing is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Marbella area. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Marbella is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

The nightlife in Beijing has something for everybody. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Music?

Marbella is a great destination for its music scene. However, Beijing 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.

Beijing is not a live music destination.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Resorts?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Beijing 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.

Beijing is not a resort destination.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Beijing 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.

Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Beaches?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Beijing 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.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for its Old Town?

Marbella is a resort town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Marbella offers a nice historic old town area. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Marbella?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Marbella is a world class destination for shoppers. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Beijing or Marbella More Beautiful?

Marbella is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Marbella attracts visitors from all around. With its seemingly endless sunshine, miles of sandy beaches, and surrounding mountain landscape, this is a beautiful destination.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Families?

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

Marbella is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Couples?

Marbella is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Beijing. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Marbella is a good city 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.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Students?

Beijing is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Marbella is not popular with students.

Beijing is a great city to visit as a student. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Marbella is not popular with students.

Is Beijing or Marbella Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Beijing can get you around easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

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 Beijing or Marbella a more walkable city?

Marbella is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Marbella Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marbella or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Marbella?

In either Beijing or Marbella, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Marbella because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-5 days is enough time in Marbella.

Families should spend more time in Marbella than Beijing. 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 Beijing. 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 Beijing than Marbella 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 Beijing.

One day in Beijing or Marbella?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Marbella, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Beijing or Marbella?

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Marbella, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marbella has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Marbella?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Marbella is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marbella has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Marbella?

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marbella. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Marbella. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Marbella?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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 Beijing 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 Beijing or Marbella in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Marbella. Most visitors come to Beijing 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.

In July, Beijing is generally around the same temperature as Marbella. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 27°C (80°F), 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 Beijing this time of the year. In the summer, Beijing often gets less sunshine than Marbella. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 348 hours of full sun.

Beijing receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Marbella. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Marbella in the Autumn?

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

Beijing is cooler than Marbella in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Marbella fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marbella during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Marbella. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Marbella in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Beijing in the winter. In the winter, Beijing is much colder than Marbella. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beijing in January average around -4°C (26°F), and Marbella averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Marbella. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marbella receives 171 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Marbella. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Marbella in the Spring?

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

In April, Beijing is generally cooler than Marbella. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (57°F), and Marbella fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Marbella during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Marbella receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Marbella. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Marbella receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marbella and Beijing