A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Berlin vs. Barcelona for Attractions, Nightlife, Music, and Backpackers

Should you visit Berlin or Barcelona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin or Barcelona, 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.

Berlin

Berlin is a cultural, artsy, and creative city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a historic, cultural, and friendly city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Berlin and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berlin or Barcelona?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Berlin. While Berlin is larger than Barcelona, Barcelona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Barcelona is very popular for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Berlin attracts visitors for its museums. Barcelona is more touristy than Berlin and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Berlin is famous for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history.

How is Berlin different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Berlin or Barcelona?

Berlin is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Berlin that are not to be missed. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Berlin or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Berlin and Barcelona can be an enjoyable experience.

Berlin has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Dining out in Barcelona is an experience not to be missed. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Berlin or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find first-rate options in both Berlin and Barcelona.

The nightlife in Berlin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Barcelona is a world class party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Is Berlin or Barcelona Better for Music?

Berlin and Barcelona are both destinations where visitors can find first-rate live music.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Berlin. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

In Barcelona you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Is Berlin or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Berlin is not a beach destination.

Barcelona has a beach worth visiting. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Berlin is not a beach destination.

Is Berlin or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a great city for its old town. However, Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Barcelona to see the historical old town. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Barcelona?

If you're looking to go shopping, Berlin and Barcelona both offer plenty of first-rate spots.

Known for shopping, Berlin draws large crowds to its stores. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Barcelona is a world class destination for shoppers. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Is Berlin or Barcelona Better for Families?

Berlin is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Berlin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Berlin or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Berlin and Barcelona are both nice to visit as a couple.

Berlin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Barcelona is a good city for couples to visit. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Berlin or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Berlin and Barcelona are first-rate places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Berlin is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Barcelona is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Is Berlin or Barcelona Better for Students?

For students, both Berlin and Barcelona are first-rate places to visit.

Berlin is a great destination for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Is Berlin or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berlin is renowned for its public transit. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Berlin has a great public transit system. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Berlin or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Berlin is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Berlin is somewhat walkable. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Berlin Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or Barcelona?

Both Berlin and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Berlin has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Berlin than Barcelona. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Berlin, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin than Barcelona 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 Berlin.

One day in Berlin or Barcelona?

People visit Berlin because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Barcelona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Berlin or Barcelona?

People visit Berlin because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Berlin or Barcelona?

People visit Berlin because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Berlin or Barcelona?

Berlin is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the youthful big city of Barcelona. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Berlin and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona 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 Berlin Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Berlin or Barcelona?

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

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 Berlin or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Berlin during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berlin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Berlin is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around 19°C (66°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Berlin. In the summer, Berlin often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Berlin gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. Berlin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berlin or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Berlin and Barcelona. Many travelers come to Berlin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Berlin is much colder than Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Berlin usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Berlin gets 106 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Berlin usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Berlin gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Berlin or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Berlin as well as Barcelona. Many visitors come to Berlin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Berlin can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Berlin is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Berlin in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Berlin often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Berlin gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets less rain in January than Barcelona. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berlin or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Berlin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Berlin for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Berlin is generally much colder than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around 9°C (47°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. Berlin usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Berlin gets 160 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Berlin usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Berlin