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

Should you visit Athens or Nuremberg?

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 Nuremberg. 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 vibrant, energetic, and historic 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a beautiful, historic, and fascinating city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Nuremberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Nuremberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens than Nuremberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Athens is more popular for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Nuremberg is known for its shopping 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. Nuremberg is popular for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Nuremberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Nuremberg and Athens.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Nuremberg that are not to be missed. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

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

Athens is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Athens or Nuremberg Better for Nightlife?

Athens is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many people head to Nuremberg for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

Is Athens or Nuremberg Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the fantastic old town areas in both Athens and Nuremberg.

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 Nuremberg can be explored in its historical center. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Nuremberg?

Nuremberg is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nuremberg. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Nuremberg Better for Families?

Both Athens and Nuremberg are very good 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.

Nuremberg is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

Is Athens or Nuremberg Better for Couples?

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

Nuremberg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

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 Nuremberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Nuremberg. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

Is Athens or Nuremberg Better for Students?

For students, both Athens and Nuremberg are very good places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Nuremberg is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

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

Athens and Nuremberg both offer very good public transit to get you around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Public transit in Nuremberg is fairly effecient and thorough. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

Is Athens or Nuremberg a more walkable city?

Athens and Nuremberg are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Nuremberg is very walkable. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nuremberg or Athens?

How long in Athens or Nuremberg?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nuremberg. 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 Nuremberg?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nuremberg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, 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 Nuremberg?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nuremberg. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Nuremberg?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Nuremberg. This city 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Nuremberg?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of Nuremberg. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg?

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 Nuremberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Nuremberg. Most visitors come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally a little warmer than Nuremberg. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Nuremberg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nuremberg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Nuremberg. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 236 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Nuremberg. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Nuremberg in the Autumn?

Both Nuremberg and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Athens because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nuremberg this time of year.

Athens is much warmer than Nuremberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Nuremberg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Nuremberg during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 122 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Athens or Nuremberg in the Winter?

Both Nuremberg and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nuremberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nuremberg. In the winter, Athens is much warmer than Nuremberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Nuremberg averages at about 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Nuremberg. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 47 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Athens or Nuremberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Nuremberg. Many travelers come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Nuremberg in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Nuremberg during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Nuremberg and Athens