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

Should you visit Basel or Bamberg?

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

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

Basel

Basel is a beautiful, vibrant, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a historic, beautiful, and scenic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Basel and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Bamberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Basel than Bamberg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Basel is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Bamberg attracts visitors for its historical sights. Bamberg is more touristy than Basel and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town. It is also well known for The Kunstmuseum Basel.

How is Basel different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bamberg and Basel. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Basel or Bamberg?

Basel 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 Basel can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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 Basel or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Basel and Bamberg both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Basel. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Bamberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Basel or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Basel 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 Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

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 Basel or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Bamberg is revered around the world. 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.

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Bamberg?

Basel 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.

Basel is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

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 Basel or Bamberg Better for Families?

Basel 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.

Basel is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

Bamberg is a family-friendly city. 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 Basel or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Basel and Bamberg are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

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

Is Basel or Bamberg Better for Students?

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

Basel is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Basel 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 Basel. 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 Basel or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Basel and Bamberg both are amazing when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Basel on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Basel?

How long in Basel or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Basel and Bamberg. In our opinion, Basel has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Basel than Bamberg. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Bamberg than Basel. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bamberg that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel 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 Basel.

One day in Basel or Bamberg?

In Basel, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bamberg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic 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.

A weekend in Basel or Bamberg?

In Basel, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Basel has to offer.

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.

Five days in Basel or Bamberg?

Basel 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.

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.

A week in Basel or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Basel. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Basel. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Basel and Bamberg, we can see that Basel 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel 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 Basel Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Basel or Bamberg?

Basel has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Basel and Bamberg, 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 Basel or Bamberg?

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 Basel or Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Basel because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

In July, Basel is generally around the same temperature as Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 21°C (70°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Bamberg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Basel. Basel usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Basel or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and Basel during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Basel is a little warmer than Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Basel often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in October than Bamberg. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Bamberg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Bamberg. Many travelers come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bamberg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bamberg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Basel. In the winter, Basel is much warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Basel in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

Basel usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Basel usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Basel or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Basel as well as Bamberg. Many visitors come to Basel in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Bamberg for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Basel is generally a little warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 12°C (53°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Basel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Bamberg. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Basel