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

Should you visit Bamberg or Arles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Bamberg or Arles, 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 scenic, storybook, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg and Arles: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bamberg or Arles?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Arles than Bamberg. While Bamberg is larger than Arles, Arles has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bamberg is more touristy than Arles and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. Also, Arles is famous for L'Amphithéâtre Romain.

How is Bamberg different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bamberg
Arles

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Arles that are not to be missed. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Bamberg
Arles

Arles 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, Arles makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

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 Arles Better for Nightlife?

Bamberg
Arles

Arles 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 Arles. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

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 Arles Better for its Old Town?

Bamberg
Arles

Bamberg and Arles both have terrific historical old towns that attract visitors.

Bamberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Arles has a world-famous historical area. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.


Is the Shopping Better in Bamberg or Arles?

Bamberg
Arles

Both Bamberg and Arles are notable 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 Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Bamberg or Arles Better for Families?

Bamberg
Arles

Bamberg is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bamberg. 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.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Bamberg or Arles Better for Couples?

Bamberg
Arles

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Bamberg has plenty to offer. 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.

Arles is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.


Is Bamberg or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bamberg
Arles

Bamberg is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bamberg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

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

Bamberg
Arles

Both Bamberg and Arles offer notable 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.

Arles has some public transit options. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Bamberg or Arles a more walkable city?

Bamberg
Arles

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Bamberg?

How long in Bamberg or Arles?

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

Families should spend more time in Bamberg than Arles. 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 Arles. 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 Arles 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 Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bamberg 1-3 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Bamberg or Arles?

In Bamberg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

A weekend in Bamberg or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Arles, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

Five days in Bamberg or Arles?

Bamberg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Arles 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.


A week in Bamberg or Arles?

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles 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 Arles is €142. 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 Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bamberg 75
    Arles 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bamberg 150
    Arles 142
Compare Hotels in Bamberg and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Bamberg or Arles? 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 Arles


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 and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bamberg 14
    Arles 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Bamberg or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles 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
    Arles 52

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    4.50
  • Ice Cream
    1.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bamberg 17
    Arles 31

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    5.50

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bamberg 19
    Arles 24

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Arles:

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


When comparing the travel costs between Bamberg and Arles, we can see that Arles 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 Bamberg Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bamberg or Arles?

Bamberg has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Bamberg and Arles, 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 Arles?

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 Arles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bamberg and Arles. Most visitors come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Arles because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bamberg is generally cooler than Arles. Daily temperatures in Bamberg average around 19°C (67°F), and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. In Bamberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Bamberg gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bamberg usually receives more rain than Arles. Bamberg gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bamberg as well as Arles. The autumn months attract visitors to Bamberg because of 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 Arles this time of year.

Bamberg is cooler than Arles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Arles. Bamberg gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Arles. Bamberg usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Arles in the Winter?

Both Arles and Bamberg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Bamberg in the winter. In the winter, Bamberg is much colder than Arles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bamberg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Arles averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Bamberg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Arles. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Bamberg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bamberg for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Arles in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Bamberg is generally cooler than Arles. Daily temperatures in Bamberg average around 10°C (50°F), and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Arles. Bamberg gets 156 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Bamberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Bamberg

Bamberg Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)