A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Kiel for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Arachova or Kiel?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Kiel, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Kiel

Kiel is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and waterfront city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Arachova and Kiel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Arachova or Kiel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Kiel are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm, while Kiel attracts visitors for its beaches and big city activities. Arachova is more touristy than Kiel and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Kiel is famous for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival.

How is Arachova different from Kiel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Kiel Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Kiel

Arachova is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Kiel is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Kiel is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Kiel?

Arachova
Kiel

Both Arachova and Kiel have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Kiel offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Kiel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Kiel

Arachova is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Arachova. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Kiel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Arachova or Kiel Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Kiel

Arachova is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

If you're looking for night time activities Kiel has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.


Is Arachova or Kiel Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Kiel

Kiel is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

Kiel has a beach worth visiting. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Kiel Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Kiel

Arachova is well known for its old town. However, Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Arachova. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Is Arachova or Kiel Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Kiel

Arachova is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Kiel is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Kiel is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Kiel?

Arachova
Kiel

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kiel and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kiel. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Arachova or Kiel Better for Families?

Arachova
Kiel

Arachova is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Arachova is a very kid-friendly town. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Kiel offers lots of family activities. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

Is Arachova or Kiel Better for Couples?

Arachova
Kiel

Arachova is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Kiel is a good town for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.


Is Arachova or Kiel Better for Students?

Arachova
Kiel

Kiel is a nice place to visit for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Kiel is popular with students. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

Arachova is not popular with students.

Is Arachova or Kiel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Kiel

Arachova is a popular place for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Arachova or Kiel a more walkable city?

Arachova
Kiel

Arachova and Kiel both are nice when exploring on foot.

Arachova is somewhat walkable. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

Kiel is a somewhat walkable place. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.


For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Kiel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kiel or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Kiel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Kiel. In our opinion, Arachova has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arachova than Kiel. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-3 days is enough time in Kiel.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arachova than Kiel 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 Arachova.


  • How many days in Arachova or Kiel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Kiel 1-3

One day in Arachova or Kiel?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arachova. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Kiel offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Kiel?

Arachova is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kiel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kiel, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Kiel?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Arachova. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kiel is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Arachova or Kiel?

The bustling town of Arachova offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Kiel is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Kiel or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Kiel is €138. 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 Arachova and Kiel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Kiel 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Kiel 134
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Kiel

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Kiel? 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 Arachova


Hotels in Kiel


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: Kiel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Kiel 54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kiel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kiel:

  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM) - Departure Private Transfer: $118
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $118
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $235
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg: $645
  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg city: $79
  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Port to Hamburg Airport: $79

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Kiel?

Prices for flights to both Kiel and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Kiel 39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Kiel 19

Tours and Activities in Kiel

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

  • Lübeck Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Laboe Naval Memorial: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Kiel's Historical Port: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore this Historic Port: $12
  • SEA LIFE Timmendorfer Strand Admission Ticket: $16
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • City Sightseeing Kiel Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • Lübeck stories - an exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • Kiel Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private Walking Tour of Kiel: $97

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Kiel 12


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Kiel?

Kiel has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Kiel, 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 Arachova or Kiel?

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 Arachova or Kiel in the Summer?

Both Kiel and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kiel for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Arachova is much warmer than Kiel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Kiel averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Kiel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 219 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Kiel. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Kiel 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Kiel in the Autumn?

Both Kiel and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kiel because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Arachova is generally much warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the autumn, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 102 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Kiel. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Kiel 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Kiel in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Kiel. The winter months attract visitors to Arachova because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kiel this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kiel in the winter. Arachova is much warmer than Kiel in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Kiel fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 39 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Kiel. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Kiel 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Kiel in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Kiel. The small town charm are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kiel for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Arachova is much warmer than Kiel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Kiel averages at about 7°C (44°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the spring, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 171 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Kiel. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Kiel 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Kiel and Arachova

Arachova Kiel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 7°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 16°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)