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

Should you visit Bamberg or Flam?

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

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

Bamberg

Bamberg is a storybook, historic, and beautiful town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Flam

Flam is a beautiful, natural, and breathtaking village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and hiking.

Bamberg and Flam: 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
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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 Bamberg or Flam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bamberg. Although Bamberg and Flam are both popular with visitors, Bamberg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bamberg is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping, while Flam is known for its food, hiking, and small town charm. Bamberg is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also home to the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Flam is popular for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Bamberg different from Flam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bamberg
Flam

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

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.

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 Bamberg or Flam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bamberg
Flam

Flam 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, Flam makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Flam Better for Nightlife?

Bamberg
Flam

Both Bamberg and Flam are decent when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Bamberg specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Flam. 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 Bamberg or Flam Better for its Old Town?

Bamberg
Flam

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Flam does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Bamberg offers plenty to see. 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.

Flam does not have a historic old town.


Is Bamberg or Flam Better for Hiking?

Bamberg
Flam

Flam is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

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.

Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bamberg or Flam?

Bamberg
Flam

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

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 Bamberg or Flam Better for Families?

Bamberg
Flam

Flam is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Flam is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Bamberg is a family-friendly town. 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.


Is Bamberg or Flam Better for Couples?

Bamberg
Flam

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its romantic activities.

Bamberg is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Flam is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Bamberg or Flam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bamberg
Flam

Both Bamberg and Flam are good 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.

Flam is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Bamberg
Flam

Both Bamberg and Flam 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.

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


Is Bamberg or Flam a more walkable city?

Bamberg
Flam

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its high level of walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Flam or Bamberg?

How long in Bamberg or Flam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bamberg or Flam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bamberg 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 Bamberg, and 1-2 days is enough time in Flam.

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

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

One day in Bamberg or Flam?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This village 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 Flam?

Bamberg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Flam has to offer.


Five days in Bamberg or Flam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the historic destination of Bamberg. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Flam is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Flam?

The scenic town of Bamberg offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Flam. Since Flam is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Adventure Tours to Norway, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Flam 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 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 Bamberg and Flam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bamberg 75
    Flam 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bamberg 150
    Flam 108
Compare Hotels in Bamberg and Flam

Looking for a hotel in Bamberg 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 Bamberg


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: Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bamberg 14
    Flam 16

Is it cheaper to fly into Bamberg or Flam?

Prices for flights to both Flam 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
    Flam 33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bamberg 17
    Flam 16

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bamberg 19
    Flam 3.44

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 Flam, we can see that Bamberg 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 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 Flam.

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


Which is Bigger, Bamberg or Flam?

Bamberg has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Flam. When comparing the sizes of Bamberg 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 Bamberg 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 Bamberg or Flam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bamberg as well as Flam. Many travelers come to Bamberg for 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.

Bamberg is a little warmer than Flam in the summer. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 19°C (67°F) in July, and Flam fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Flam. Bamberg usually gets less rain in July than Flam. Bamberg gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Flam receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F) 
    Flam 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Flam in the Autumn?

Both Flam and Bamberg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bamberg in the autumn for 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.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. In October, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Flam. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Flam receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Bamberg or Flam in the Winter?

Both Flam and Bamberg during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bamberg 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. Bamberg can be very cold during winter. In January, Bamberg is generally much colder than Flam. Daily temperatures in Bamberg average around 0°C (33°F), and Flam fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bamberg usually gets less rain in January than Flam. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Flam receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F) 
    Flam 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Flam in the Spring?

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

Bamberg is much warmer than Flam in the spring. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Flam fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Flam receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Flam. Bamberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Flam receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Flam and Bamberg

Bamberg Flam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in)