A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Baden-Baden vs. Flam for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Baden-Baden or Flam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Baden-Baden or Flam, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and peaceful spa town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Flam

Flam is a natural, breathtaking, and beautiful village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Baden-Baden and Flam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baden-Baden. Although Baden-Baden and Flam are popular destinations, Baden-Baden has more sights and attractions for tourists. Baden-Baden is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Flam attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Flam is more touristy than Baden-Baden and is popular for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port. Baden-Baden is famous for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals. It is also well known for The Thermal Baths.

How is Baden-Baden different from Flam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Baden-Baden
Flam

Baden-Baden is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

Baden-Baden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.


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

Baden-Baden
Flam

Baden-Baden is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Baden-Baden, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Flam. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants as well.

Is Baden-Baden or Flam Better for Nightlife?

Baden-Baden
Flam

Baden-Baden is a good destination for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Baden-Baden has a few options to choose from. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.

Is Baden-Baden or Flam Better for Hiking?

Baden-Baden
Flam

Flam is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its hiking trails.

Flam is a popular spot for hiking. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Baden-Baden. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.


Is the Shopping Better in Baden-Baden or Flam?

Baden-Baden
Flam

Baden-Baden is a good destination for shopping. However, Flam is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Baden-Baden. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.

Is Baden-Baden or Flam Better for Families?

Baden-Baden
Flam

Baden-Baden and Flam are both great destinations for the whole family.

Baden-Baden is a very kid-friendly spa town. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Flam. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.

Is Baden-Baden or Flam Better for Couples?

Baden-Baden
Flam

Baden-Baden and Flam are both great to visit as a couple.

Baden-Baden is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Flam makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.


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

Baden-Baden
Flam

Flam is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Baden-Baden
Flam

Flam is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for times when you don't have a car.

Flam has a few public transit options. There is a local bus service through the area.

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

Is Baden-Baden or Flam a more walkable city?

Baden-Baden
Flam

Flam 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.

Flam is a very walkable village. There are many great walks in the area.

Baden-Baden is a somewhat walkable spa town. 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 Baden-Baden Worth Visiting? and Is Flam Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Baden-Baden or Flam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Baden-Baden or Flam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Baden-Baden than Flam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Baden-Baden, and 1-2 days is enough time in Flam.

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

Couples should spend more time in Baden-Baden than Flam. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Baden-Baden that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Flam 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 Flam.


  • How many days in Baden-Baden or Flam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baden-Baden 1-3 
    Flam 1-2

One day in Baden-Baden or Flam?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Baden-Baden. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Flam is a small town with plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Baden-Baden or Flam?

Baden-Baden is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Flam might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This village offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Baden-Baden or Flam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Baden-Baden. This spa town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Because Flam is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Baden-Baden or Flam?

The peaceful spa town of Baden-Baden offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Since Flam is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Norway, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Flam or Baden-Baden?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Baden-Baden is €154, while the average daily cost in Flam is €104. 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 Baden-Baden and Flam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baden-Baden 87
    Flam 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baden-Baden 174
    Flam 108
Compare Hotels in Baden-Baden and Flam

Looking for a hotel in Baden-Baden or Flam? 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 Baden-Baden


Hotels in Flam


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: Baden-Baden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baden-Baden 33
    Flam 16

Is it cheaper to fly into Baden-Baden or Flam?

Prices for flights to both Flam and Baden-Baden 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
    Baden-Baden 41
    Flam 33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baden-Baden 34
    Flam 16

Tours and Activities in Baden-Baden

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

  • Baden-Baden Private walking tour: $374
  • Baden-Baden Yuletide Stroll: Experience the Festive Charm: $359
  • Christmas Market Walking Tour: $254
  • Powerful Women Themed Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Private Guided KNUMO e-Scooter Tour VIP: $138
  • Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $248
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $232
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $252
  • Private Walking Tour in Baden Neuweirs Vineyard: $653
  • Romance in Baden-Baden – Private Walking Tour: $252
  • Scenic Baden-Baden Walking Tour: Discovering Historic Charm: $373

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baden-Baden 12
    Flam 3.44


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Baden-Baden and Flam, we can see that Baden-Baden is more expensive. And not only is Flam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Flam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Flam 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 Flam.

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


Which is Bigger, Baden-Baden or Flam?

Baden-Baden has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Flam. When comparing the sizes of Baden-Baden and Flam, 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 Baden-Baden or Flam?

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 Baden-Baden or Flam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Baden-Baden as well as Flam. Many travelers come to Baden-Baden for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Flam in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Baden-Baden is generally a little warmer than Flam. Daily temperatures in Baden-Baden average around 20°C (67°F), and Flam fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Flam. Baden-Baden usually gets less rain in July than Flam. Baden-Baden gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Flam receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baden-Baden 20°C (67°F) 
    Flam 15°C (58°F)

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

Both Flam and Baden-Baden are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Baden-Baden in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Flam for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Baden-Baden is a little warmer than Flam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baden-Baden averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Flam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. In October, Baden-Baden usually receives less rain than Flam. Baden-Baden gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Flam receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baden-Baden 11°C (52°F) 
    Flam 9°C (48°F)

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

Both Flam and Baden-Baden during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Baden-Baden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Flam because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Flam can be very cold. Baden-Baden can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Baden-Baden is around the same temperature as Flam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baden-Baden in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Flam averages at about 2°C (35°F).

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Baden-Baden usually gets less rain in January than Flam. Baden-Baden gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Flam receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baden-Baden 2°C (35°F) 
    Flam 2°C (35°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Baden-Baden and Flam. The spring months attract visitors to Baden-Baden because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Flam this time of year.

In April, Baden-Baden is generally much warmer than Flam. Daily temperatures in Baden-Baden average around 10°C (50°F), and Flam fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Flam receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Baden-Baden usually receives less rain than Flam. Baden-Baden gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Flam receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baden-Baden 10°C (50°F) 
    Flam 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Flam and Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden Flam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 102 mm (4 in) 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 109 mm (4.3 in) 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Jul 20°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 75 mm (3 in) 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in)