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

Should you visit Delft 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 Delft 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.

Delft

Delft is a quaint, charming, and historic town. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Delft travel costs.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. Marseille is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Marseille travel costs.

Delft and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Delft or Marseille?

You'll generally find more things to do in Marseille than Delft. Marseille is bigger than Delft, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Marseille is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Delft is more popular for its museums and attractions. Marseille is more touristy than Delft and is known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. Also, Marseille is famous for The Vieux Port. Delft is well known for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery.

How is Delft different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Delft
Marseille

Delft 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 Delft. There are several museums that highlight the culture and history of the area. The Vermeer Center offers an immersive experience into the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born in the city. The Royal Delft Factory teaches visitors about the city's iconic blue-and-white pottery. The Delft Museum of Technology and the Old Church also provide insight into the city's engineering, cultural, and religious history.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Delft
Marseille

Marseille is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Delft. There are several local dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or a frikandel (a Dutch snack). The town has countless casual eateries and cozy cafes where you can enjoy pastries, coffee, and Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken). There's also a selection of international restaurants around town that serve Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Local markets and street food stalls provide affordable options, such as fresh herring or delicious Dutch cheese.

Is Delft or Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Delft
Marseille

Marseille is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Delft is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Delft is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It has a low-key and relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of cozy pubs, bars, and cafes, many of which are located along the scenic canals.

Is Delft or Marseille Better for Beaches?

Delft
Marseille

Marseille is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Delft 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.

Delft is not a beach destination.


Is Delft or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Delft
Marseille

Marseille is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Delft. The city's old town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and cobblestone streets. The heart of the old town is centered around the Market Square, where you'll find iconic landmarks such as the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) and the City Hall.

Is the Shopping Better in Delft or Marseille?

Delft
Marseille

Marseille is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Marseille. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Delft offers some nice shopping areas. The city center is home to many unique shops selling local crafts, Dutch design, and traditional Delftware pottery, making it a great place for souvenirs. You'll also find popular international brands and stores along the main shopping streets. For a more local shopping experience, visit the weekly market in the Market Square, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and regional goods.

Is Delft or Marseille More Beautiful?

Delft
Marseille

Marseille is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Marseille is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's beauty comes from its historic architecture and beautiful neighborhoods.

Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Delft or Marseille Better for Families?

Delft
Marseille

Delft is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Delft is a family-friendly town. There are boat tours on the canals. There's also the Vermeer Center which has an interactive experience where you can learn about the famous artist, Johannes Vermeer, in a way that's engaging and educational. The Royal Delft Factory is another great stop, where children can see traditional blue-and-white pottery being made and even try painting their own ceramics. If your kids need to stretch their legs, there's the Delftse Hout park which has a large playground, nature trails, and even a petting zoo.

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 Delft or Marseille Better for Couples?

Delft
Marseille

Marseille is a very popular place for romance. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Marseille makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Delft makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities for couples like walking through the picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. There are also quaint cafes and romantic restaurants. You can also take a boat ride along the canals or enjoy a peaceful walk through Delftse Hout park.

Is Delft or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Delft
Marseille

Marseille is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Delft is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Marseille is a good city to visit for backpackers. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Delft is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some affordable accommodation options, but many backpackers head to Delft as a day trip from the nearby city of The Hague.


Is Delft or Marseille Better for Students?

Delft
Marseille

Both Delft and Marseille are high quality destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Delft. It is home to Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), which is a well respected technical university. The city has a vibrant student atmosphere, with plenty of student-friendly cafes, bars, and activities.

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

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

Delft
Marseille

Delft is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Delft can get you to most places easily. There's a bus network that is reliable and convenient. The city's train station is centrally located and offers direct connections to major cities in the Netherlands, making it a great hub for exploring the region.

You'll find some public transit in Marseille, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Is Delft or Marseille a more walkable city?

Delft
Marseille

Delft 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 Delft. The town's compact size and charming layout mean that most of the main attractions, such as the Old Church, New Church, and Market Square, are within walking distance of each other.

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 Delft Worth Visiting? and Is Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Delft?

How long in Delft or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Delft and Marseille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marseille than in Delft. Usually, 1 day is a good amount of time for Delft, and 2-3 days is enough time in Marseille.

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

Couples should spend more time in Marseille than Delft. 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 Delft 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.


  • How many days in Delft or Marseille? Ideal Length of Stay
    Delft 1 
    Marseille 2-3

One day in Delft or Marseille?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Delft. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Delft has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Marseille, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this energetic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Delft or Marseille?

You'll find museums and food around the quaint destination of Delft. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Delft or Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint town of Delft. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Marseille is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Marseille. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Delft or Marseille?

Delft is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the energetic destination of Marseille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Marseille or Delft?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Delft is €146, while the average daily cost in Marseille is €179. 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 Delft and Marseille in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Delft 76
    Marseille 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Delft 152
    Marseille 142
Compare Hotels in Delft and Marseille

Looking for a hotel in Delft 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 Delft


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: Delft Hotel Prices and Marseille Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Delft 7.14
    Marseille 28

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:

  • Transfer Marseille Provence Airport ↔ Le Castellet: $245
  • Transfer Marseille Provence Airport ↔ Cruise Port: $114
  • Transfer Marseille Airport ⟺ Cruise Port Terminal: $154
  • Transfer Marseille Airport to Marseille city center: $155
  • Transfer Marseille Airport to Gordes or L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: $274
  • Transfer (MRS) Marseille ⟺ Arles Cruise Port: $275
  • Transfer : $93
  • Taxi Marseille Airport-Transfer Marseille Airport: $84
  • TRANSFER ROUNDTRIP PORT TO CASSIS: $349
  • TRANSFER MARSEILLE CRUISE PORT➦ AIRPORT: $137
  • TRANSFER MARSEILLE AIRPORT ➦CRUISE PORT: $137
  • Provence airport transfers: $143

Is it cheaper to fly into Delft or Marseille?

Prices for flights to both Marseille and Delft 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
    Delft 64
    Marseille 73

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:

  • Web-cooking workshop / French cuisine or French pastry: $38
  • Marseille Miam Miam Food tour: $114
  • Marseille Food Tour – Full Meal of Local Tastes by Do Eat Better: $118
  • Aix-en-Provence 3-Hour Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Great Marseille Ebike and Food Tour: $131
  • Private Food Tour in Marseille 3 Hours with a local expert.: $154

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Delft 11
    Marseille 38

Tours and Activities in Delft

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

  • Delft - Private Historic Walking Tour: $456
  • Delft - Step/scootertour in and around the city: $29
  • Delft Private Walking Tour: $294
  • Canal Cruise with Guided Commentary: $16
  • Canal House Museum 'Paul Tetar van Elven' Ticket: $14
  • City Center Walking Tour: $22
  • City Tour with Dutch Food and Drink: $93
  • Entrance Ticket for the Old and New Churches: $11
  • Guided Walking Tour: $199
  • Half-Day Vermeer Tour with Church and Museum Visit: $223
  • Hugo de Groot Walking Tour: $14
  • Open Boat Canal Cruise with Skipper: $112

Tours and Activities in Marseille

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

  • Full Day Marseille Tour Especially Designed for Cruise Travelers: $82
  • Guided Sea Kayaking Tour in the Calanques: $90
  • A Day in Provence Small Group Tour from Marseille: $197
  • A Perfect Day of Discovery from the Cruise Port of Marseille: $80
  • Adventure route in Cassis - Via Corda Philémon: $90
  • Aix-en-Provence: Half-Day Shore Excursion Tour: $646
  • Bookbinding experience in the Vieux Port: $102
  • Calanques National Park Kayak Day Tour: $130
  • Calanques Trilogy Electric Bike Tour from Marseille: $72
  • Canyoning Half Day Tour from La Ciotat : $81
  • Cassis : Two Calanques Tour by Electric Mountain Bike: $48
  • Cassis National Park E-Mountain Bike Experience with Virtual Guide: $54

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Delft 16
    Marseille 27

Sample the Local Flavors in Delft

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Delft:

  • Craft Beer Tasting in Medieval Brewery with Snacks: $19

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: $24
  • Short Day Tour around Aix en Provence and Wine Tasting : $130
  • Côtes du Rhône Wine tour: Avignon, Palace of the Popes: $179
  • From Marseille Cruise Port : Avignon & Wine Tasting: $187
  • Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion : Avignon & Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour: $190
  • Marseille Shore Excursion - Full Day Wine Tour in Provence: $197
  • Avignon and Côtes du Rhône Wine Tasting Tour: $211
  • From Marseille : Sidecar Wine Tour to Cassis and Bandol: $287
  • Cassis, Bandol, Le Castellet wine tour: Cliffs and Vineyards: $411
  • Marseille Vieux Port & Wine Tasting - Private Tour: $1,116


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Delft and Marseille, we can see that Marseille is more expensive. And not only is Delft much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Delft would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Delft 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 Delft.

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


Which is Bigger, Delft or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Delft. When comparing the sizes of Delft 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 Delft 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 Delft or Marseille in the Summer?

Both Marseille and Delft are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Delft for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Marseille because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Delft is generally cooler than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Delft average around 17°C (62°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Delft. Delft usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during summer. Delft gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Delft usually receives more rain than Marseille. Delft gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Delft 17°C (62°F) 
    Marseille 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Delft or Marseille in the Autumn?

Both Marseille and Delft during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Delft because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

Delft is much colder than Marseille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Delft averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Delft often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Delft gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun.

Delft usually gets less rain in October than Marseille. Delft gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Delft 11°C (51°F) 
    Marseille 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Delft or Marseille in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Delft and Marseille. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Delft this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Delft in the winter. In the winter, Delft is much colder than Marseille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Delft in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Marseille averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Delft usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during winter. Delft gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Delft usually receives more rain than Marseille. Delft gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Delft 2°C (36°F) 
    Marseille 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Delft or Marseille in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Delft as well as Marseille. Additionally, many visitors come to Marseille in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Delft is generally much colder than Marseille. Daily temperatures in Delft average around 8°C (46°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. In the spring, Delft often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Delft gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun.

Delft usually gets more rain in April than Marseille. Delft gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Delft 8°C (46°F) 
    Marseille 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Marseille and Delft

Delft Marseille
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)