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

Should you visit Bamberg or Alesund?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Bamberg or Alesund, 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.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a historic, beautiful, and scenic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Alesund

Alesund is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg and Alesund: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bamberg or Alesund?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Alesund. Although Bamberg and Alesund are both popular with visitors, Alesund has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Alesund is more popular for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Bamberg is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Alesund and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Alesund is popular for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords. It is also home to the Art Nouveau Center.

How is Bamberg different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bamberg or Alesund?

Bamberg
Alesund

Both Bamberg and Alesund have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Bamberg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Alesund offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.


Is the Food Better in Bamberg or Alesund? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bamberg
Alesund

Alesund is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Alesund makes for a great culinary experience. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

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 Bamberg or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Bamberg
Alesund

Alesund is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and 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 Bamberg or Alesund Better for its Old Town?

Bamberg
Alesund

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Bamberg is revered around the world. 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.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bamberg or Alesund?

Bamberg
Alesund

Both Bamberg and Alesund are good shopping destinations.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Bamberg or Alesund Better for Families?

Bamberg
Alesund

Bamberg and Alesund are both good destinations for the whole family.

Bamberg is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Alesund is a family-friendly town. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Is Bamberg or Alesund Better for Couples?

Bamberg
Alesund

Bamberg is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Bamberg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Alesund makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.


Is Bamberg or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bamberg
Alesund

Bamberg is a popular place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Bamberg or Alesund Better for Students?

Bamberg
Alesund

Alesund is a nice place to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Alesund is a good city to visit for students. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Bamberg
Alesund

Both Bamberg and Alesund offer good public transit options.

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

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.


Is Bamberg or Alesund a more walkable city?

Bamberg
Alesund

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Bamberg?

How long in Bamberg or Alesund?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bamberg and Alesund. In our opinion, Bamberg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bamberg than Alesund. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bamberg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Alesund.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bamberg than Alesund 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 Bamberg.


  • How many days in Bamberg or Alesund? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bamberg 1-3 
    Alesund 2-3

One day in Bamberg or Alesund?

In Bamberg, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Alesund, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Bamberg or Alesund?

In Bamberg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bamberg has to offer.

In Alesund, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alesund has to offer.


Five days in Bamberg or Alesund?

Bamberg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Alesund is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bamberg or Alesund?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Bamberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alesund. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alesund. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Tours for Seniors to Norway, and The Best Contiki Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Alesund or Bamberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bamberg is €127, while the average daily cost in Alesund is €93. 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 Bamberg and Alesund in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bamberg 75
    Alesund 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bamberg 150
    Alesund 98
Compare Hotels in Bamberg and Alesund

Looking for a hotel in Bamberg or Alesund? 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 Bamberg


Hotels in Alesund


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: Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bamberg 14
    Alesund 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Alesund Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Cruise Port to Alesund City Hotels: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Alesund Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Molde Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $37
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Molde Cruise Port: $58
  • Alesund to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES)-Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Olden Cruise Port: $60
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Olden Port: $64
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $71
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Andalsnes Port: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Bamberg or Alesund?

Prices for flights to both Alesund and Bamberg 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
    Bamberg 41
    Alesund 28

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bamberg 17
    Alesund 15

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56
  • Bayreuth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided tour - World Heritage Fascination: $14
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $19
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $21
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27

Tours and Activities in Alesund

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

  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $42
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $42
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • Varden Molde Panorama Hike Tour: $46
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $55
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $64
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $102
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $111
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $121
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $125
  • Sightseeing Tour in Trollstigen - Land of Trolls: $140
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $140

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bamberg 19
    Alesund 11

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

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


Which is Bigger, Bamberg or Alesund?

Bamberg has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Bamberg and Alesund, 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 Bamberg or Alesund?

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 Bamberg or Alesund in the Summer?

Both Alesund and Bamberg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bamberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Alesund for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Bamberg is much warmer than Alesund in the summer. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 19°C (67°F) in July, and Alesund fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In July, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Alesund. Bamberg gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F) 
    Alesund 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Alesund in the Autumn?

Both Alesund and Bamberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Alesund because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bamberg is a little warmer than Alesund. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bamberg in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Alesund averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Alesund gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bamberg usually gets less rain in October than Alesund. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F) 
    Alesund 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Alesund in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bamberg and Alesund. The winter months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Alesund this time of year.

It's quite cold in Alesund in the winter. The weather in Bamberg can be very cold. In January, Bamberg is generally much colder than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Bamberg average around 0°C (33°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Alesund receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Alesund. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F) 
    Alesund 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Alesund in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bamberg as well as Alesund. The natural beauty are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alesund for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Alesund. Bamberg is much warmer than Alesund in the spring. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Alesund fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Bamberg usually gets less rain in April than Alesund. Bamberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F) 
    Alesund 5°C (40°F)

Typical Weather for Alesund and Bamberg

Bamberg Alesund
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 11°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 188 mm (7.4 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 5°C (42°F) 187 mm (7.4 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (38°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)