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

Should you visit Bamberg or Chartres?

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

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

Chartres

Chartres is a historic, grand, and spectacular town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for food and museums.

Bamberg and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bamberg or Chartres?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bamberg. Although Bamberg and Chartres are popular destinations, Bamberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bamberg is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chartres attracts visitors for its small town charm. Bamberg is more touristy than Chartres and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also well known for the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Chartres is famous for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Bamberg different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Bamberg and Chartres have nice 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.

Chartres offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Bamberg and Chartres can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Bamberg offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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).

Chartres has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Bamberg or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Bamberg is adequate for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Bamberg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Bamberg or Chartres Better for its Old Town?

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Chartres does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Bamberg can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Chartres does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bamberg or Chartres?

Bamberg is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bamberg or Chartres Better for Families?

Bamberg is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Bamberg offers lots of family activities. 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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Bamberg or Chartres Better for Couples?

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

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.

Chartres is a good town for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is Bamberg or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bamberg and Chartres are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Chartres is a good town to visit for backpackers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

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

Chartres is a well-known place 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Chartres. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

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 Chartres a more walkable city?

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Chartres is a very walkable destination. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Bamberg?

How long in Bamberg or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bamberg or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bamberg than Chartres 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 Chartres.

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

One day in Bamberg or Chartres?

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.

In Chartres, you'll find food and 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 Chartres?

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.

In Chartres, you'll find museums and food. 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 Chartres has to offer.

Five days in Bamberg or Chartres?

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.

Chartres 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Chartres. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Bamberg or Chartres?

Bamberg has a larger population, and is about 60% larger than the population of Chartres. When comparing the sizes of Bamberg and Chartres, 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bamberg as well as Chartres. Many visitors come to Bamberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Chartres for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Bamberg is around the same temperature as Chartres. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bamberg in July average around 19°C (67°F), and Chartres averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chartres. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In the summer, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Chartres. Bamberg gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets more rain in July than Chartres. Bamberg gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bamberg or Chartres in the Autumn?

Both Chartres and Bamberg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Chartres because of the small town atmosphere.

In October, Bamberg is generally cooler than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Bamberg average around 11°C (51°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Chartres during autumn. Bamberg gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bamberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chartres. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bamberg or Chartres in the Winter?

Both Chartres and Bamberg during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chartres in the winter. The weather in Bamberg can be very cold. Bamberg is much colder than Chartres in the winter. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 0°C (33°F) in January, and Chartres fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Chartres. Bamberg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets less rain in January than Chartres. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bamberg or Chartres in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bamberg and Chartres. The natural beauty are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chartres for the small town charm.

In the spring, Bamberg is cooler than Chartres. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bamberg in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Chartres averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Chartres during spring. Bamberg gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bamberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chartres. Bamberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chartres and Bamberg