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

Should you visit Athens or Fussen?

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 Fussen. 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 energetic, historic, and ancient 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Fussen

Fussen is a charming, picturesque, and quintesential town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Athens and Fussen: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Athens or Fussen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Fussen are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Fussen is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Athens 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. Fussen is popular for its romantic atmosphere and its proximity to the Neuschwanstein Castle.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Fussen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens
Fussen

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Athens are world-renowned. 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 Fussen. Most people stopping in town are on their way to or from the Neuschwanstein Castle. It is one of the most famous castles in Germany as many people say it was the inspiration for the Disney Castle.


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

Athens
Fussen

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Fussen area. Many restaurants embrace the fairytale setting and offer their own storybook atmosphere. This is a well worn tourist path, so you'll find a number of restaurants serving traditional dishes specifically for the tourists.

Is Athens or Fussen Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Fussen

Athens is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Fussen is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Fussen is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Athens or Fussen Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Fussen

Visitors enjoy the amazing old town areas in both Athens and Fussen.

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 Fussen can be explored in its historical center. The small old town is filled with classic German charm.


Is Athens or Fussen Better for Hiking?

Athens
Fussen

Fussen is great for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Fussen for the hiking trails. The countryside offers a number of beautiful trails that pass through forests and meadows. You'll also find waterfalls and nice viewpoints. The hikes are very well marked with excellent signage.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Fussen?

Athens
Fussen

Athens is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Fussen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Athens. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Fussen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Athens or Fussen Better for Families?

Athens
Fussen

Athens is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

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

Fussen is a family-friendly place to visit. Neuschwanstein Castle is not far away, and it's a big part of why some families may stay in this small town. Kids will also enjoy wandering around the old town and grabbing ice cream. Just outside of town is Lechfall, which is a manmade waterfall and a little further is the Treetop Walkway. The surrounding area also has a lot of natural beauty as well as giant alpine slides.


Is Athens or Fussen Better for Couples?

Athens
Fussen

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

Fussen is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It sits at the end of Germany's Romantic Road and the small town does not disappoint. For many, it's a stopover while visiting the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, but the surrounding countryside is also beautiful and worth exploring.

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 Fussen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Fussen

Athens is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Athens is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Fussen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For its small size, the town has a number of hostels to choose from. Prices are reasonable, so this is a nice option for backpackers passing through the area.

Is Athens or Fussen Better for Students?

Athens
Fussen

Athens is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Fussen is not popular with students.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Fussen is not popular with students.


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

Athens
Fussen

Athens is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

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.

Fussen has a few public transit options. There are buses through the region including buses to Neuschwanstein Castle.

Is Athens or Fussen a more walkable city?

Athens
Fussen

Fussen 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.

Fussen is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's easy to walk from one side of the old town to the other in half an hour.

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 Fussen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fussen or Athens?

How long in Athens or Fussen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Fussen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Fussen. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-3 days is enough time in Fussen.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Fussen 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 Fussen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Fussen 2-3

One day in Athens or Fussen?

Athens 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.

Fussen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Athens or Fussen?

Athens is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Fussen 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 Fussen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fussen. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Fussen?

Athens 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.

Fussen is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Oktoberfest Tours in Germany, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Fussen 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 Fussen is €210. 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 Fussen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Fussen 109
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Fussen 218
Compare Hotels in Athens and Fussen

Looking for a hotel in Athens or Fussen? 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 Fussen


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 Fussen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Fussen 54
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:

  • From Paros: Helicopter Transfer to Greek Islands or Athens: $2,695
  • From Meteora Private Day Trip with Transfer: $1,048
  • From Ancient Corinth Day Trip with Private Transfer: $461
  • Private Transfer to/from Volos: $449
  • From Private Cape Sounion Sunset Tour with Transfer: $299
  • Transfer from Athens airport to Epidavros up to 4 customers: $298
  • Athens Airport to Kyllini Transfer or from Kyllini to Athens: $291
  • Private Transfer From Athens To Lefkada: $284
  • Private Transfer From Athens To Meteora - Kalabaka: $273
  • Private Transfer through Athens Attractions at Night: $273
  • Vip Transfer From/To Athens Center - Lavrio Port: $273
  • Private Transfer From Athens To Ancient Olympia: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Fussen?

Prices for flights to both Fussen 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
    Fussen 59
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

Typical Food Prices in Fussen

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


  • Lunch
    10

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Fussen 60

Tours and Activities in Athens

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

  • Acropolis/Athens Highlights Private Evening Tour (5 hours) from Athens, Piraeus: $87
  • Ancient Corinth Canal Epidavrous Nafplio Private Tour 8Hours: $180
  • Apostle Paul's Footsteps in Athens Christian Private Tour 5Hours: $142
  • Delphi full day V.R audio guided tour with entry ticket: $48
  • EPIDAURUS & NAFPLIO : Private Full Day Tour From Athens 6 Hours : $173
  • Full Day Tour in Athens with Lunch: $147
  • Half Day Private Tour on Highlights of Classical Athens: $158
  • Layover Private Tour in Athens: $245
  • Mycenae Lions Gate Epidaurus & Nafplio Full Day Private Tour 8H : $191
  • Self-Guided Tour at the Romantic Island of Hydra from Athens: $284
  • Traditional Villages Full day Tour in Santorini: $59
  • "Acropolis Half-day Tour and City Visit": $168

Tours and Activities in Fussen

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

  • Füssen Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $254
  • Neuschwanstein Castle Ticket +Guide: $41
  • Neuschwanstein Castle Tour with Skip the Line from Hohenschwangau: $64
  • Neuschwanstein ticket+ City Bike from Fuessen: $51
  • Private tour of the best of Fussen - Sightseeing, Food & Culture with a local: $225
  • Skip The Line Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Hohenschwangau: $60
  • Skip the Line: Neuschwanstein Castle Private Tour From Füssen or Hohenschwangau: $270
  • Skip-the-Line: Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Hohenschwangau: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Fussen 20

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Fussen, we can see that Fussen 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 Fussen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fussen 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 Fussen Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Athens or Fussen?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Fussen. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Fussen, 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.