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

Should you visit Athens or Bamberg?

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 Bamberg. 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a storybook, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Athens and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Acropolis
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Athens or Bamberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Athens than Bamberg. Athens is bigger than Bamberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Athens is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Bamberg is more popular for its impressive beauty. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Bamberg is well known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bamberg 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 Bamberg?

Athens
Bamberg

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Athens that are not to be missed. 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.

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 Athens or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens
Bamberg

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Athens is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Athens or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Bamberg

Athens is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Athens has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Bamberg

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Athens and Bamberg.

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

The rich history of Bamberg can be explored in its historical center. 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Bamberg?

Athens
Bamberg

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Bamberg both offer plenty of notable 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.

Bamberg is a great destination for shopping. 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 Athens or Bamberg Better for Families?

Athens
Bamberg

Athens is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Athens is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Bamberg is a family-friendly city. 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 Athens or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Athens
Bamberg

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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

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 Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Bamberg

Athens is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Athens is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Bamberg is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Athens or Bamberg Better for Students?

Athens
Bamberg

Athens is a well-known place for students. However, Bamberg 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.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Athens
Bamberg

Athens is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Bamberg has some public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Athens or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Athens
Bamberg

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Bamberg is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Athens?

How long in Athens or Bamberg?

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

Families should spend more time in Athens than Bamberg. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Bamberg than Athens. 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 Athens 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 Athens.


  • How many days in Athens or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Athens or Bamberg?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Bamberg?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Bamberg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Bamberg?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Bamberg. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Athens?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €127, 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 Athens and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Athens and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Athens 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 Athens


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: Athens Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Bamberg 14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:


  • Airport Bus for Two
    6.40
  • Metro
    1.50
  • Metro
    2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

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

  • Bus Transfer to/from Argos: $14
  • One way Private Transfer Athens City Center to / from Piraeus Port: $20
  • Private Transfer from Piraeus Port and Hotels to Athens: $22
  • Athens Hotels To Piraeus Port-Hotels Luxury Transfer Services: $22
  • Private transfer between Athens hotels and Piraeus Port: $22
  • From Athens Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Rafina Port: $24
  • Athens Private Transfer: Piraeus Cruise Port to Central Athens : $24
  • Private Transfer from Athens City to Piraeus Port: $26
  • Piraeus Port: Private One-Way Transfer to Athens City Center: $26
  • Athens City to Athens Airport Easy Van and Minibus Transfer: $28
  • Athens Airport to Athens City Easy Van and Minibus Transfer: $28
  • AIRPORT TRANSFER in Athens : $28

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Athens 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
    Athens 37
    Bamberg 41
Typical Food Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:


  • Ice cream
    3.00
  • Souvlaki
    2.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $24
  • Street Food Tour Market & City Centre: $42
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $46
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $51
  • Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $52
  • Middle-eastern Cuisine Cooking Class with Meal: $52
  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide and 7 Tastings: $57
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Organic Lunch on Poros: $60
  • Alternative, truly authentic food tour in secret Athens: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Class with Meal: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Classes in Athina: $64
  • Light Lunch Tasting & Cooking Demo: $67

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Athens

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.

  • Meouzo Online City Tour: $3.20
  • Self-guided First Discovery Walk and Reading Tour: $3.21
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour into Byzantine Gems: $4.60
  • A Neoclassical Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
  • 360 Virtual tour of Ancient Athens: $6.00
  • Herakleidon Museum of Ancient Greek Technology: Entry Ticket: $6.42
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Athens: $6.53
  • Ancient Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Ancient Agora of Athens Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • The Best of Piraeus: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Greece: Tourist eSIM Data Plan: $7.18
  • Ancient Agora: Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.48

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Bamberg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

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

  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $17
  • Greek Wine Tasting: $23
  • Premium Wine Tastings: $35
  • Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $43
  • Athens Wine Tasting: $44
  • Old Town Athens Wine Tasting: $52
  • Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $52
  • 2 Hours Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $53
  • Best rated Acropolis Wine Tasting : $53
  • Greek food and wine tasting: $53
  • Rare Greek Wine Tasting w/Sommelier by the Acropolis: $59
  • Wine Tasting and Storytelling in a Historical Square in Athina: $60

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 Athens and Bamberg, we can see that Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Athens or Bamberg?

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

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 Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg 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 Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Bamberg averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In Bamberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Bamberg. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Athens or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Bamberg. 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 Bamberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Athens is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Athens or Bamberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Bamberg. 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 Bamberg this time of year.

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

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bamberg. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Athens or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg 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 Bamberg for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Athens is much warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bamberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Bamberg. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Athens

Athens Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)