A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bergen vs. Brescia for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Bergen or Brescia?

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

Should I visit Bergen or Brescia? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bergen

Bergen is a friendly, laid back, and nostalgic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brescia

Brescia is a under-rated, historic, and undisovered city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bergen and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bergen or Brescia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bergen. Although Bergen and Brescia are about the same size, Bergen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bergen is better known for its historical sights and small town charm, while Brescia is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. Bergen is well known for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty. Also, Bergen is famous for Bryggen. Brescia is well known for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Bergen different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bergen or Brescia?

Bergen
Brescia

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Bergen or Brescia.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergen. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

Brescia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


Is the Food Better in Bergen or Brescia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bergen
Brescia

Brescia is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Brescia is an experience not to be missed. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Bergen or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Bergen
Brescia

Evening events are notable in both Bergen and Brescia.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Brescia. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Bergen or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Bergen
Brescia

Bergen is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bergen to see the historical old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bergen or Brescia?

Bergen
Brescia

Both Bergen and Brescia are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bergen. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Brescia. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Is Bergen or Brescia Better for Families?

Bergen
Brescia

Bergen is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Bergen is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Bergen or Brescia Better for Couples?

Bergen
Brescia

Bergen is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Bergen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.


Is Bergen or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bergen
Brescia

Bergen is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bergen. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Bergen or Brescia Better for Students?

Bergen
Brescia

Bergen and Brescia are both notable destinations for students and younger travelers.

Bergen is a good city to visit for students. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Plenty of students visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Is Bergen or Brescia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bergen
Brescia

Bergen is well known for its public transit. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Bergen can move around easily with public transportation. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

While Brescia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.


Is Bergen or Brescia a more walkable city?

Bergen
Brescia

Bergen is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Bergen is very walkable. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Bergen Worth Visiting? and Is Brescia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Bergen?

How long in Bergen or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bergen or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bergen than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bergen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bergen than Brescia 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 Bergen.


  • How many days in Bergen or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bergen 1-3 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Bergen or Brescia?

In Bergen, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Brescia. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Bergen or Brescia?

In Bergen, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Bergen has to offer.

Brescia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Bergen or Brescia?

Bergen 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brescia. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bergen or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bergen. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Brescia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Norway, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Bergen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bergen is $108, while the average daily cost in Brescia is $154. 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 Bergen and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bergen $67
    Brescia $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bergen $134
    Brescia $160
Compare Hotels in Bergen and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Bergen or Brescia? 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 Bergen


Hotels in Brescia


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: Bergen Hotel Prices and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bergen $9.65
    Brescia $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergen:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen City by Minibus: $198
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen by business sedan: $98
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen by luxury minivan: $112
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Cruise Port to Bergen City by Minibus: $143
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Cruise Port to Bergen City by Sedan: $80
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Cruise Port to Bergen city by luxury van: $92
  • Bergen International Airport: Private One Way Transfer: $100
  • Bergen Private Transfer from Bergen (BGO) Airport to City centre: $131
  • Bergen Private Transfer from Bergen city centre to Bergen airport: $131
  • Private Transfer from Bergen Airport to City Center: $83
  • Private Transfer to Airport, City or Cruise Port: $153
  • Private Transfer to/from Bergen Airport (BGO): $104

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Bergen or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Bergen 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
    Bergen $31
    Brescia $50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergen

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bergen.

  • Guided Fishing Tour with Outdoor Cooking: $180

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brescia.

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bergen $16
    Brescia $33

Tours and Activities in Bergen

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

  • Explore Bergen with Passionate Tour Guides: $3.21
  • Visita a pie Bergen NORDIC FREEDOM TOURS: $4.96
  • Guided Walking Tour: $4.96
  • Bergen Golden Circle Fjortour by Minibus: $5.00
  • Off the Beaten Track in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Bergen University District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Walk with a witch: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Walk with a Witch in 16th Century A Self-Guided Fictional Tour: $6.99
  • Walking Tour of Central Bergen: $7.63
  • Pocket Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Pocket Bryggen: A Self-Guided Audio tour in Bergen: $8.99
  • Bergen 3-Hour Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Tour in Lugana DOP - 3 wines from Perla del Garda: $33
  • Sirmione Sunset Tour: $38
  • Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour with a Drink On Board: $57
  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Italy most underrated city:Brescia-Walking tour with a drink: $74
  • Photographic tour at sunset on Lake Garda: $78
  • Canyoning "Gumpenfever" - beginner Canyoningtour for everyone: $84
  • Lake Cruise (visit Torri & Gargnano): $91
  • Desenzano e-bike tour: $98
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bergen $6.87
    Brescia $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bergen or Brescia?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Brescia. When comparing the sizes of Bergen and Brescia, 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 Bergen or Brescia?

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 Bergen or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bergen and Brescia. Many travelers come to Bergen for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brescia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bergen is much colder than Brescia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bergen in July average around 15°C (58°F), and Brescia averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Bergen usually receives more rain than Brescia. Bergen gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bergen 15°C (58°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Bergen or Brescia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bergen as well as Brescia. Many visitors come to Bergen in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, most visitors come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Bergen is generally much colder than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 9°C (48°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bergen usually gets more rain in October than Brescia. Bergen gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bergen 9°C (48°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Bergen or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Bergen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bergen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Brescia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brescia can be very cold. Bergen can be very cold during winter. Bergen is a little warmer than Brescia in the winter. The daily temperature in Bergen averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. In January, Bergen usually receives more rain than Brescia. Bergen gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bergen 2°C (35°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Bergen or Brescia in the Spring?

Both Brescia and Bergen during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Bergen because of the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

In the spring, Bergen is much colder than Brescia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bergen in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Brescia averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. Bergen usually gets more rain in April than Brescia. Bergen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bergen 6°C (43°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Bergen

Bergen Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)