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

Should you visit Bamberg or Marseille?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Bamberg or Marseille, 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 beautiful, scenic, and storybook town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Bamberg and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Bamberg or Marseille?

You'll generally find more things to do in Marseille than Bamberg. Marseille is bigger than Bamberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Marseille is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Bamberg is more popular for its museums. Bamberg is well known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Marseille is well known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. Also, Marseille is famous for The Vieux Port.

How is Bamberg different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bamberg
Marseille

Bamberg is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bamberg. 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.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Bamberg
Marseille

Marseille is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Marseille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

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 Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Bamberg
Marseille

Marseille is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Marseille has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

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 Marseille Better for Beaches?

Bamberg
Marseille

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Bamberg is not a beach destination.

Marseille has a beach worth visiting. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Bamberg is not a beach destination.


Is Bamberg or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Bamberg
Marseille

Bamberg and Marseille both have amazing 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.

Marseille has a world-famous historical area. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

Is the Shopping Better in Bamberg or Marseille?

Bamberg
Marseille

Marseille 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.

Marseille is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

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 Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Bamberg
Marseille

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Bamberg does not offer Christmas markets.

Marseille has Christmas markets worth visiting. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Bamberg does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Bamberg or Marseille Better for Families?

Bamberg
Marseille

Bamberg is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly 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.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Bamberg or Marseille Better for Couples?

Bamberg
Marseille

Bamberg is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Bamberg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Marseille frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Is Bamberg or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bamberg
Marseille

Both Bamberg and Marseille are notable 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.

Marseille is a good town to visit for backpackers. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.


Is Bamberg or Marseille Better for Students?

Bamberg
Marseille

Marseille is a well-known place for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Marseille is a great city to visit as a student. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Bamberg
Marseille

Both Bamberg and Marseille 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.

Marseille has some public transit options. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Is Bamberg or Marseille a more walkable city?

Bamberg
Marseille

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Marseille is very walkable. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Bamberg?

How long in Bamberg or Marseille?

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

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


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

One day in Bamberg or Marseille?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bamberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Marseille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Marseille?

You'll find museums and food around the storybook destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Marseille, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Marseille has to offer.

Five days in Bamberg or Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the storybook town of Bamberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Marseille 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 Marseille?

Bamberg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marseille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Marseille. 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, Marseille 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 Marseille is €148. 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 Marseille in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Bamberg or Marseille? 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 Marseille


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 Marseille Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bamberg 14
    Marseille 28

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Marseille

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Marseille:


  • Metro Pass
    3.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marseille

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

  • Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal to Marseille - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Marseille to Marseille Provence Terminal Private Transfer: $34
  • Marseille Terminal to Marseille Airport Departure Transfer: $35
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to (MPCT) Marseille Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $35
  • Marseille Port (MPCT) to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer to Gare St Charles: $53
  • Private Airport Transfer in Marseille from Marseille Provence airport, Marignane: $65
  • Private Transfer: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) to Marseille: $69
  • Marseille Airport (MRS) to Marseille- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $70
  • Private Transfer from Marseille Airport to Aix-en-Provence: $74
  • Marseille Airport transfers: $75
  • Private Transfer With an Electric Car in Marseille: $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Bamberg or Marseille?

Prices for flights to both Marseille 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
    Marseille 42

Typical Food Prices in Marseille

For Marseille, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Orangina
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marseille

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

  • Web-cooking workshop / French cuisine or French pastry: $35
  • No Diet Club - Unique food tour in Marseille! (Cours Julien): $63
  • Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $74
  • Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $86
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $86
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $93
  • Sunset Apéro Food tour: $95
  • Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $97
  • Marseille Sunset Apéro Food tour: $97
  • Evening Food Tour with Tastings: $102
  • Sunset Sailing Dinner in the Frioul Archipelago: $102
  • Marseille Miam Miam Food tour: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bamberg 17
    Marseille 38

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

Tours and Activities in Marseille

For Marseille, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Marseille:Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • Marseille Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Marseille Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Self-guided Like a Local Highlights Day Tour: $9.52
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Game & Sightseeing: $9.84
  • Panier District Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Humorous and Informative Tour of the Historic Center of La Ciotat: $11
  • Mucem Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bamberg 19
    Marseille 27

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 Marseille

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

  • Marseille Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $21
  • Marseille Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $22
  • Marseille Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party: $43
  • New Year's Eve Bar Crawl Marseille France: $96
  • Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Bandol and Cassis: Full Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $143
  • Luberon: Full-Day Wine Tour from Marseille: $143
  • Full-day Wine Tour around Bandol & Cassis from Marseille: $146
  • Full-Day Wine Tour around Luberon from Marseille: $146
  • Côtes du Rhône Wine tour: Avignon, Palace of the Popes: $164
  • Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion : Avignon & Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour: $164
  • Marseille Shore Excursion - Full Day Wine Tour in Provence: $164


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bamberg or Marseille?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Bamberg and Marseille, 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 Marseille?

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 Marseille in the Summer?

Both Marseille and Bamberg during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

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

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bamberg. In the summer, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Bamberg gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets more rain in July than Marseille. Bamberg gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Bamberg or Marseille in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bamberg and Marseille. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during autumn. Bamberg gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Marseille. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Bamberg or Marseille in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bamberg as well as Marseille. Many travelers come to Bamberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Marseille in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bamberg. In the winter, Bamberg is much colder than Marseille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bamberg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Marseille averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Bamberg often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Bamberg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Marseille. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Bamberg or Marseille in the Spring?

Both Marseille and Bamberg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bamberg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Marseille for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Marseille. Bamberg usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during spring. Bamberg gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


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

Typical Weather for Marseille and Bamberg

Bamberg Marseille
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)