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

Should you visit Bamberg or Budapest?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Bamberg or Budapest, 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 storybook, historic, and beautiful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Budapest

Budapest is a artistic, historic, and authentic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Bamberg and Budapest: Pros and Cons

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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Bamberg or Budapest?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Budapest than Bamberg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Budapest is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bamberg attracts visitors for its food and historical sights. Bamberg is famous for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Budapest is famous for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Hungarian Parliament Building.

How is Bamberg different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bamberg
Budapest

Budapest is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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 Budapest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bamberg
Budapest

Bamberg is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Bamberg or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Bamberg
Budapest

Budapest is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Budapest offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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 Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Bamberg
Budapest

Bamberg is terrific for its old town. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Bamberg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Many visitors go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.


Is the Shopping Better in Bamberg or Budapest?

Bamberg
Budapest

Budapest is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Budapest is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bamberg. 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.

Is Bamberg or Budapest Better for Families?

Bamberg
Budapest

Bamberg and Budapest are both nice 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly town. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Bamberg or Budapest Better for Couples?

Bamberg
Budapest

Bamberg is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.


Is Bamberg or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bamberg
Budapest

Budapest is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Budapest is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Bamberg is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Bamberg or Budapest Better for Students?

Bamberg
Budapest

Budapest is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Budapest is a great destination for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Bamberg
Budapest

Budapest is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Budapest is top-notch. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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


Is Bamberg or Budapest a more walkable city?

Bamberg
Budapest

Bamberg and Budapest both are terrific when exploring on foot.

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Budapest. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Bamberg?

How long in Bamberg or Budapest?

In either Bamberg or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Bamberg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bamberg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

Families should spend more time in Bamberg than Budapest. 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 Budapest. 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 Budapest than Bamberg 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 Budapest.


  • How many days in Bamberg or Budapest? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bamberg 1-3 
    Budapest 2-5

One day in Bamberg or Budapest?

The beautiful town of Bamberg offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Budapest?

Bamberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bamberg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Budapest has to offer.


Five days in Bamberg or Budapest?

Bamberg is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Budapest is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Budapest has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bamberg or Budapest?

Bamberg is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.


Which place is cheaper, Budapest 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 Budapest is €84. 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 Budapest in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bamberg 75
    Budapest 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bamberg 150
    Budapest 92
Compare Hotels in Bamberg and Budapest

Looking for a hotel in Bamberg or Budapest? 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 Budapest


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 Budapest Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bamberg 14
    Budapest 9.80

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Budapest

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Budapest:


  • Short Taxi Ride
    6.47
  • Metro Pass
    3.55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Budapest

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

  • Shared Airport Shuttle Bus Transfer: $13
  • Budapest Airport Private Departure Transfer : City to Airport: $16
  • Budapest Private Arrival Transfer: Railway station to hotels: $16
  • Premier Outlet Shopping Transfer from City Center: $16
  • Private One-Way Budapest Int Airport Transfer To/From Budapest: $24
  • Ferenc Liszt Intl Airport to Budapest - Arrival Private Transfer : $25
  • Budapest Airport Transfers: $26
  • Budapest Private transfer Airport or Hotel to or from Cruise Port: $26
  • Private Airport Transfer Budapest: $27
  • Budapest City - Budapest Airport Transfer: $31
  • Private Transfer Budapest Airport BUD to Budapest by car or van: $34
  • Hotel to Liszt Ferenc Airport departure Transfer: $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Bamberg or Budapest?

Prices for flights to both Budapest 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
    Budapest 22

Typical Food Prices in Budapest

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Budapest:


  • Lunch
    3.16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Budapest

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

  • Traveling Spoon Hungarian Goulash Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Downtown Budapest Cruise with Pizza and Beer: $45
  • Pizza & Beer Downtown Budapest Cruise: $46
  • Vegan Hungarian Food Tour (full meals): $51
  • Medieval Dinner Show with Drinks: $52
  • Private Street Food Tour: $59
  • Danube Cruise with Hungarian Dinner and Live Music: $74
  • Budapest Danube Cruise with Buffet Dinner, Performances and Music: $75
  • Evening Cruise and Dinner with Champagne: $86
  • Lángos (Hungary’s nr1 streetfood) cooking class: $87
  • Candlelit Dinner River Cruise with Live Music: $91
  • Budapest Danube River Candlelit Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bamberg 17
    Budapest 20

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Typical Entertainment Prices in Budapest

For Budapest, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Entrance to the Baths for Two
    6.35

Tours and Activities in Budapest

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Free Tour Budapest Essential in Spanish: $3.26
  • Budapest Historical Sightseeing - Walking Tour: $3.27
  • Free walking tour in the Buda Castle incl. Fisherman's Bastion: $3.27
  • Free Walking Tour Budapest incl. the Shoes on the Danube Bank: $3.27
  • Communist History Evening Walking Tour of Budapest: $3.27
  • Past and Present of Budapest Jewish District Tour: $3.27
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Buda Castle: $5.45
  • Escape Game and Tour: $5.88
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.88
  • Historical Heroes & Hot Spa Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • TOP 10 Budapest- City Tour : $6.00

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bamberg 19
    Budapest 17

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 Budapest

Also in Budapest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • The Original Budapest Pub Crawl - One Hour Open Bar + Free Shots: $17
  • 5-Hour Pub Crawl through Ruin Bars: $21
  • Ultimate Budapest Pub Crawl: $23
  • Ultimate Budapest Pub Crawl: $23
  • Bingo Bar Crawl: $25
  • Budapest Original Ruin Pub Crawl Including 5 Shots: $28
  • Ruin Bar Pub Crawl with Entry Tickets: $29
  • Detective Pub Crawl Game by App: $38
  • 8-Tier Hungarian Wine Tasting in a Cozy Downtown Wine Bar: $38
  • Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl with a Local Guide: $42
  • Drunken History Bar Crawl Tour with Local Drinks: $42
  • Hungarian Wine Tasting (with Cheese and Charcuterie) in Budapest: $50


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bamberg or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Bamberg and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

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 Bamberg or Budapest in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Bamberg is around the same temperature as Budapest. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bamberg in July average around 19°C (67°F), and Budapest averages at about 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Budapest. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In the summer, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Bamberg gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets more rain in July than Budapest. Bamberg gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F) 
    Budapest 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Budapest in the Autumn?

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

In October, Bamberg is generally around the same temperature as Budapest. Daily temperatures in Bamberg average around 11°C (51°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Bamberg gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bamberg usually receives more rain than Budapest. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F) 
    Budapest 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Budapest in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Budapest. It's quite cold in Bamberg in the winter. Bamberg is much warmer than Budapest in the winter. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 0°C (33°F) in January, and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Bamberg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Budapest. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F) 
    Budapest -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Budapest in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bamberg and Budapest. Many travelers come to Bamberg for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Budapest in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bamberg is cooler than Budapest. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bamberg in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during spring. Bamberg gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bamberg usually receives more rain than Budapest. Bamberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F) 
    Budapest 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Budapest and Bamberg

Bamberg Budapest
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) -1°C (31°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (35°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 20°C (67°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (34°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)