A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marrakech vs. Boston for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Marrakech or Boston?

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

Should I visit Marrakech or Boston? 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.

Marrakech

Marrakech is a ancient, cultural, and high-energy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Marrakech is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Marrakech travel costs.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Boston offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Boston travel costs.

Marrakech and Boston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Marrakech or Boston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Boston than Marrakech. While Marrakech is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Marrakech is more popular for its shopping and impressive beauty. Marrakech is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail.

How is Marrakech different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Marrakech
Boston

Boston 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, Boston has many famous sights for visitors. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Marrakech or Boston Better for Theater?

Marrakech
Boston

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Marrakech is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Marrakech is not a theatre destination.

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

Marrakech
Boston

Dining out at restaurants in both Marrakech and Boston can be an enjoyable experience.

Marrakech has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Marrakech or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Marrakech
Boston

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Marrakech or Boston Better for Music?

Marrakech
Boston

Boston is a popular place for its music scene. However, Marrakech is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Marrakech is not a live music destination.

Is Marrakech or Boston Better for Beaches?

Marrakech
Boston

Boston is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Marrakech is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Marrakech is not a beach destination.

Is Marrakech or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Marrakech
Boston

It's fun to wander around the amazing old towns in both Marrakech and Boston.

With a famous historical old-town, Marrakech offers plenty to see. 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.

The rich history of Boston can be explored in its historical center. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.


Is the Shopping Better in Marrakech or Boston?

Marrakech
Boston

Marrakech is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Marrakech or Boston More Beautiful?

Marrakech
Boston

Marrakech is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

Marrakech is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It is most beautiful as the sun sinks low and the color become strikingly pink.

Boston is a beautiful place to visit, too. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.

Is Marrakech or Boston Better for Families?

Marrakech
Boston

Boston 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, Boston is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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 Marrakech or Boston Better for Couples?

Marrakech
Boston

Marrakech is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Marrakech is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Marrakech or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marrakech
Boston

Marrakech is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Marrakech is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Marrakech or Boston Better for Students?

Marrakech
Boston

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

Many students frequent Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Marrakech is not popular with students.


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

Marrakech
Boston

Boston 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 Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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

Is Marrakech or Boston a more walkable city?

Marrakech
Boston

Boston 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 Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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 Marrakech Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Marrakech?

How long in Marrakech or Boston?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston 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 Boston.


  • How many days in Marrakech or Boston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marrakech 3-7 
    Boston 3-5

One day in Marrakech or Boston?

Marrakech is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

You'll find museums and theater around the city of Boston. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.


A weekend in Marrakech or Boston?

Marrakech is a great place to explore. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the classic big city of Boston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Five days in Marrakech or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marrakech. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the proud city of Boston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Marrakech or Boston?

Marrakech is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Boston 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Morocco, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Boston or Marrakech?

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

  • Marrakech Prices
    Morocco Prices
    Boston Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marrakech $103
    Boston $291

The average daily cost (per person) in Marrakech is $103, while the average daily cost in Boston is $291. 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 Marrakech and Boston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marrakech $59
    Boston $166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marrakech $118
    Boston $332
Compare Hotels in Marrakech and Boston

Looking for a hotel in Marrakech or Boston? 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 Marrakech


Hotels in Boston


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: Marrakech Hotel Prices and Boston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marrakech $14
    Boston $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech

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

  • Horse Riding in Palmeraie Grove 2 hour ride & transfer- Marrakech: $5.00
  • Private Transfer Marrakech Menara Airport RAK to City Hotels: $5.00
  • Marrakech Airport Transfer: $5.01
  • Marrakech Airport Transfer (ONE WAY pick-up OR/OU ONE WAY drop-off): $7.14
  • Marrakech Airport Transfer (ONE WAY pick-up OR/OU ONE WAY drop-off): $7.14
  • Marrakech Airport Transfer ( ONE WAY pick-up OR/OU ONE WAY drop-off): $7.14
  • Marrakech Airport Transfer : $8.93
  • Private Transfer To/From Marrakech Airport: $9.52
  • Marrakech Airport Transfer: $9.52
  • Marrakech Menara Airport to City Transfer: $9.52
  • Private transfer from airport Menara Marrakech To Riad/Hotel or Opposite way: $9.52
  • Marrakech Airport Transfer : $10

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Round trip Airport Transfer: Boston Logan to Downton Boston : $300
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Boston (hotel OR airport pick-up): $196
  • Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $190
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $192
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $192
  • Private Transfer from Flynn Cruise Port to Boston Airport (BOS): $81
  • Private Transfer from Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Newport Port: $192
  • Private Transfer from Boston City to Boston (BOS) Airport: $113
  • Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $192
  • Private Transfer from Boston Airport to Providence RI: $294
  • Private Transfer from Boston Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port: $82
  • Private Transfer from Boston (BOS) Airport to Boston City: $112

Is it cheaper to fly into Marrakech or Boston?

Prices for flights to both Boston and Marrakech 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
    Marrakech $29
    Boston $86
Typical Food Prices in Marrakech

For Marrakech, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Orange Juice on the Square
    $0.33
  • Breakfast
    $1.33
  • Dates
    $0.66
  • Olives
    $1.00
  • Sandwich
    $1.43
  • Souvenir Spices
    $6.86

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech

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

  • Marrakesh: Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride, Dinner and Show: $9.00
  • Sunset Dinner in the Agafay Desert: $10
  • Agafay Desert Dinner, Camel Ride & Quad Biking.: $12
  • Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner Show – From Marra: $12
  • Agafay Desert Quad & Camel Rides with Dinner Show: $12
  • Marrakech Agafay Camel ride,Dinner , Fire Show: $12
  • Camel Ride in the Agafay Desert, Dinner and Fire Show: $12
  • Agafay Desert: Camel ride, dinner and fire show: $12
  • Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride with Dinner in Camp: $13
  • Morocco's Top Cooking Classes For Authentic berber Cuisine in the Atlas Mountain: $13
  • Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride and Dinner Experience: $13
  • Camel Ride at Marrakech Desert Agafy with Dinner: $13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.

  • Self Guided "The North End Pizza, Cannoli and Picnic" Solo Walking Tour : $5.50
  • Morning Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $65
  • Boston Pizza Lovers Food & History Walking Food Tour: $69
  • North End Pizza Walking Tour with 3 Slices & Cannoli: $69
  • 2-Hour Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef in Boston: $75
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $75
  • Pizza, Beer, and Paul Revere Tour: $75
  • City Cruises Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $89
  • Boston’s Politically Incorrect North End Food tour: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marrakech $11
    Boston $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Marrakech's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Palace Tickets
    $2.21
  • Golf at Atlas Golf
    $63

Tours and Activities in Marrakech

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

  • Luxury Full-Day Atlas Mountains and Agafay Desert Tour: $9.52
  • Small group to Atlas Mountains 4valleys;Waterfulls and camel Ride experience : $11
  • Group shared day tour to Ourika valley & Atlas Mountains: $11
  • Atlas Mountains ourika valley Guided Tour: $11
  • Atlas Mountains Ourika Valley Guided Tour From Marrakech : $11
  • Full-Day Tour from Marrakech to the Imlil & Toubkal Valley: $11
  • Marrakech Culture Tour Guided Half Day Exploration of Medina: $12
  • Medina Walking Tour with Souk Shopping in Marrakech: $12
  • Shopping tour Marrakech Souks: $12
  • Marrakech Airport to Hotel – Your Premium Arrival Experience: $12
  • Marrakech Cultural Tour Madrasa Ben Youssef and Secret Garden: $12
  • Atlas Mountain Full Day Tour with Three Valleys and Waterfalls: $12

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

  • Boston Massachusetts Private Photography Tour: $130
  • Freedom Trail Walking Tour: $26
  • Salem Witch Tour: $80
  • "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $30
  • 1 Hour Boston Segway Tour: $69
  • 1 If By Land Walking Tours: $45
  • 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour of Boston With *20+ Stops: $48
  • 1692 Salem Day Tour: $35
  • 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $35
  • 2 Hour Boston Historical and Heritage Walking Tour: $5.00
  • 2-Day Niagara Falls USA Tour from Boston: $49

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marrakech $10
    Boston $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Marrakech

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Marrakech:

  • Marrakech Nightlife Adventure: The Ultimate Pub Crawl: $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Bar Crawl Back Bay Beat Bar Craw: $15
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $35
  • 2 Hour Historic Pub Crawl in Boston: $35
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $36
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $56
  • Boston Freedom Trail History Pub Crawl Small-Group Tour: $60
  • Freedom Trail History Tour and Brewery Taste: $71
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Boston: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Distillery in Boston: $75


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marrakech and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Marrakech much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Marrakech is in Africa and Boston is in North America, 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Marrakech Expensive? and Is Boston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marrakech or Boston?

Marrakech has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Marrakech and Boston, 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.