A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Baden-Baden for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Baden-Baden?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Baden-Baden. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a historic, ancient, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and peaceful spa town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Athens and Baden-Baden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Baden-Baden?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens than Baden-Baden, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Athens is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Baden-Baden is known for its hiking. Athens is more touristy than Baden-Baden and is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Baden-Baden is popular for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Baden-Baden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Baden-Baden?

Athens is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Athens are among the most recognizable in the world. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Baden-Baden. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Baden-Baden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Baden-Baden can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

For foodies, Baden-Baden is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

Is Athens or Baden-Baden Better for Nightlife?

Athens is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Athens just to party. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Baden-Baden. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

Is Athens or Baden-Baden Better for its Old Town?

Athens is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Baden-Baden does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Athens is revered around the world. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Baden-Baden does not have a historic old town.

Is Athens or Baden-Baden Better for Hiking?

Baden-Baden is a good destination for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Baden-Baden offers some nice hiking trails. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Baden-Baden?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Baden-Baden both offer plenty of good spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Baden-Baden is a great destination for shopping. The city is filled with boutiques that sell jewelry, chocolate, designer fashion, and fine wine. There are several pedestrian shopping streets including the popular Lange-Strasse.

Is Athens or Baden-Baden Better for Families?

Both Athens and Baden-Baden are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Baden-Baden is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of opportunities to get into nature with hikes and wildlife reserves. There's also a funicular and castles to explore as well as several kid-friendly museums.

Is Athens or Baden-Baden Better for Couples?

Baden-Baden is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Baden-Baden is a great spa town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a spa town, so there are thermal baths that couples can enjoy. There are also many gardens and walks through the countryside. The old town is picturesque and the castles are fun to explore.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Baden-Baden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Baden-Baden is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find a hostel or two in town, but most of the tourists aren't backpackers so you may have trouble meeting other like-minded travelers.

Is Athens or Baden-Baden Better for Students?

Athens is a well-known place for students. However, Baden-Baden is not popular with students.

Athens is a great city to visit as a student. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Baden-Baden is not popular with students.

Is Athens or Baden-Baden Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Athens can get you around easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Public transit is mostly limited in Baden-Baden. There are a number of bus lines that run around town.

Is Athens or Baden-Baden a more walkable city?

Athens is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Baden-Baden is a somewhat walkable city. It's possible to walk around parts of town, but it's easier to explore with a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Baden-Baden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Baden-Baden or Athens?

How long in Athens or Baden-Baden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Baden-Baden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Baden-Baden. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-3 days is enough time in Baden-Baden.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Baden-Baden 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Baden-Baden?

Athens is a energetic city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Baden-Baden. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Baden-Baden?

Athens is a historic big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Baden-Baden is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Baden-Baden?

Athens is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baden-Baden. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Baden-Baden?

Athens is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Baden-Baden. This spa town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Baden-Baden?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Baden-Baden. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Baden-Baden, 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 Athens or Baden-Baden?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Baden-Baden in the Summer?

Both Baden-Baden and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Baden-Baden for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Athens is generally a little warmer than Baden-Baden. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In Baden-Baden, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Baden-Baden. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baden-Baden receives 231 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Baden-Baden. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Baden-Baden in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Baden-Baden. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Baden-Baden because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Athens is much warmer than Baden-Baden in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Baden-Baden during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Baden-Baden receives 91 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Baden-Baden. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Baden-Baden in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Baden-Baden. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Baden-Baden this time of year.

It's quite cold in Baden-Baden in the winter. In the winter, Athens is much warmer than Baden-Baden. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Baden-Baden averages at about 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Baden-Baden. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baden-Baden receives 35 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Baden-Baden. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Baden-Baden in the Spring?

Both Baden-Baden and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Baden-Baden for the natural beauty.

In April, Athens is generally much warmer than Baden-Baden. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Baden-Baden during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Baden-Baden receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Baden-Baden. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Baden-Baden and Athens