A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Bamberg for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Antwerp or Bamberg?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Bamberg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a cultural, historical, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a scenic, storybook, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Antwerp and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Bamberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp than Bamberg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Antwerp is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bamberg attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also well known for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antwerp or Bamberg?

Antwerp
Bamberg

Antwerp is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antwerp
Bamberg

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Bamberg can be an enjoyable experience.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Antwerp. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Bamberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Antwerp or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Bamberg

Antwerp is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Antwerp offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Antwerp or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Bamberg

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Bamberg offers plenty to see. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.


Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Bamberg?

Antwerp
Bamberg

Antwerp is an amazing port city to visit for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Antwerp is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Antwerp or Bamberg Better for Families?

Antwerp
Bamberg

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Bamberg.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Bamberg offers lots of family activities. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Antwerp or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Bamberg

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Bamberg has plenty to offer. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

Antwerp is a good port city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.


Is Antwerp or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Bamberg

Antwerp and Bamberg are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Antwerp or Bamberg Better for Students?

Antwerp
Bamberg

Antwerp is a well-known place for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Antwerp is a great port city to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

Is Antwerp or Bamberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antwerp
Bamberg

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Antwerp and Bamberg.

You'll find some public transit in Antwerp, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

While Bamberg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Antwerp or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Bamberg

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Bamberg on foot is easy. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

Antwerp is a very walkable destination. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Bamberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antwerp and Bamberg. In our opinion, Antwerp has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Antwerp than Bamberg. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Bamberg 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 Antwerp.


  • How many days in Antwerp or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antwerp 1-3 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Antwerp or Bamberg?

In Antwerp, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bamberg, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antwerp or Bamberg?

In Antwerp, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer.

In Bamberg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bamberg has to offer.


Five days in Antwerp or Bamberg?

Antwerp is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bamberg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Bamberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Antwerp?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Antwerp is €123, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is €127. 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 Antwerp and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Antwerp or Bamberg? 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 Antwerp


Hotels in Bamberg


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: Antwerp Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Bamberg 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68
  • Transfer from Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Luxury Car or Van: $73
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $141
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $163
  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $274

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Antwerp 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
    Antwerp 39
    Bamberg 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

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

  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antwerp 8.21
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

Here are a few actual costs in Antwerp for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Historical Walking Tour in the Old City: $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.27
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.09
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audioguide App: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp: $16
  • Walking Tour Big five Rubens' churches (audio): $16

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56
  • Bayreuth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided tour - World Heritage Fascination: $14
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $19
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $21
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antwerp 18
    Bamberg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

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

  • Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


When comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Bamberg, we can see that Bamberg 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 Antwerp Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Bamberg?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Bamberg, 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 Antwerp or Bamberg?

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 Antwerp or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Bamberg. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antwerp is generally cooler than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 17°C (63°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Bamberg. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Bamberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Antwerp is a little warmer than Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in October than Bamberg. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bamberg can be very cold during winter. Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Antwerp is much warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antwerp in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Antwerp during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the natural beauty.

In April, Antwerp is generally cooler than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 8°C (47°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bamberg. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Antwerp

Antwerp Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)