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

Should you visit Athens or Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg. 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a charming, picturesque, and impressive city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Athens or Strasbourg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Athens than Strasbourg. Athens is bigger than Strasbourg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Athens is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Strasbourg is more popular for its shopping and 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. Strasbourg is well known for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens
Strasbourg

Athens is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Athens from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Strasbourg can be an interesting and educational experience. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.


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

Athens
Strasbourg

Athens is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Athens has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Athens or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Strasbourg

Athens is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Athens or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Strasbourg

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Athens and Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg can be explored in its historical center. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.


Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Strasbourg?

Athens
Strasbourg

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg Better for Families?

Athens
Strasbourg

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

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

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Athens or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Athens
Strasbourg

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

Strasbourg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

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 Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Strasbourg

Athens is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

It's common for backpackers to visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Athens or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Athens
Strasbourg

Athens is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Athens is very popular with students. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Athens
Strasbourg

Athens and Strasbourg both offer high quality 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 Strasbourg is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.


Is Athens or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Athens
Strasbourg

Athens and Strasbourg are high quality 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.

Strasbourg is very walkable. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Athens?

How long in Athens or Strasbourg?

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

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

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

One day in Athens or Strasbourg?

When visiting Athens, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Athens or Strasbourg?

When visiting Athens, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

Athens, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Strasbourg. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg 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 Athens and Strasbourg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Strasbourg 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Strasbourg 134
Compare Hotels in Athens and Strasbourg

Looking for a hotel in Athens or Strasbourg? 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 Strasbourg


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 Strasbourg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Strasbourg 44
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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Strasbourg

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

  • Private Transfer Strasbourg to Europa Park: $251
  • Door-to-Door private transfer and driver from Strasbourg to Basel: $233
  • Private Transfer from Strasbourg Train Station to Hotel: $64
  • Private transfer Strasbourg Airport: $59
  • Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: $58

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Strasbourg?

Prices for flights to both Strasbourg 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
    Strasbourg 44
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Strasbourg

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

  • Strasbourg Private Food Tour: experience the city like a local!: $93
  • Strasbourg Food Tour : Gourmet private Tour with tastings: $102
  • Strasbourg Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Strasbourg 24

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 Strasbourg

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

  • 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway: $64
  • Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg: $148
  • Alsace Wine Odyssey: Full-Day Private Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Alsace Wine Route Small Group Half-Day Tour with Tasting from Strasbourg: $107
  • Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour from Strasbourg: $175
  • Alsatian brunch with immersive cellar tour: $49
  • Alsatian tour, tasting and meal - 100% immersive experience: $60
  • Christmas Joy in Strasbourg Walking Tour: $641
  • Culinary city tour in Strasbourg with tastings: $104
  • Gems of Alsace: Private Full-Day Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Gourmet Bike Tour with a Locals in Strasbourg: $71
  • Guided Tours of Strasbourg Cathedral: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Strasbourg:

  • Aperitif at the winemaker with cellar visit and wine tasting in Alsace: $11
  • Wine tasting and immersive cellar tour: $20
  • Wine tour, tasting and picnic basket: $38
  • From Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip: $118
  • Medieval Villages and Wine Tasting from Strasbourg: $120
  • Strasbourg : Wine Tour by bike with a local: $150
  • Wine Tasting Private Tour: $545


When comparing the travel costs between Athens and Strasbourg, we can see that Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Athens or Strasbourg?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Athens or Strasbourg in the Summer?

Both Strasbourg and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Strasbourg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Strasbourg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Strasbourg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Strasbourg. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    Strasbourg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Athens or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

Both Strasbourg and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Athens is generally much warmer than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets more rain in October than Strasbourg. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Strasbourg 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Athens or Strasbourg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Strasbourg. Most visitors come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Strasbourg can be very cold. Athens is much warmer than Strasbourg in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Strasbourg 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Athens or Strasbourg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Strasbourg. The spring months attract visitors to Athens because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year.

In the spring, Athens is a little warmer than Strasbourg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Strasbourg. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Strasbourg 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Athens

Athens Strasbourg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)