A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Berlin vs. Budapest for Attractions, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Berlin or Budapest?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin or Budapest, 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 artsy, creative, and eclectic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Berlin travel costs.

Budapest

Budapest is a artistic, historic, and authentic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Budapest is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Budapest travel costs.

Berlin and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berlin or Budapest?

You'll generally find more things to do in Berlin than Budapest. Berlin is bigger than Budapest, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Berlin is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Budapest is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Berlin is well known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. Also, Berlin is famous for the Brandenburg Gate. Budapest is well known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.

How is Berlin different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Berlin is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Berlin are world-renowned. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Berlin is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Berlin or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Berlin is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Berlin is a must-see party destination. 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.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Berlin or Budapest Better for Music?

Berlin is terrific for its live music scene. However, Budapest is not a live music destination.

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.

Budapest is not a live music destination.

Is Berlin or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Budapest?

Berlin is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Berlin or Budapest More Beautiful?

Budapest is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Berlin is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Budapest is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Set against the river, the city has beautiful buildings and nice parks.

Berlin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Berlin or Budapest Better for Families?

Berlin is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Berlin is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Berlin or Budapest Better for Couples?

Budapest is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Budapest is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Berlin or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Berlin and Budapest are terrific 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.

Budapest is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Is Berlin or Budapest Better for Students?

For students, both Berlin and Budapest are terrific 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.

Budapest is a very popular city for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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

Berlin and Budapest both offer terrific public transit to get you around.

Visitors in Berlin can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Budapest has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Berlin or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Budapest is a very easy city to get around on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or Budapest?

In either Berlin or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Berlin than Budapest because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Berlin, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin than Budapest 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 Budapest?

Berlin is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the big city destination of Budapest. 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 Budapest?

Berlin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Budapest 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 Berlin or Budapest?

Berlin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. 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 Budapest?

Berlin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Berlin has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the artistic big city of Budapest. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Budapest, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Berlin or Budapest?

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

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 Berlin or Budapest in the Summer?

Both Budapest and Berlin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Berlin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Budapest because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Berlin is cooler than Budapest in the summer. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Budapest. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Berlin. Berlin usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during summer. Berlin gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Berlin usually receives more rain than Budapest. Berlin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Berlin or Budapest in the Autumn?

Both Budapest and Berlin during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Berlin because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

In the autumn, Berlin is cooler than Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Berlin in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Berlin often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Berlin gets 106 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Budapest. Berlin gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berlin or Budapest in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Berlin and Budapest. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Berlin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Budapest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Budapest. It's quite cold in Berlin in the winter. In January, Berlin is generally much warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around -0°C (31°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Berlin usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during winter. Berlin gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Berlin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Budapest. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Berlin or Budapest in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Berlin as well as Budapest. Many travelers come to Berlin for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Budapest in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Berlin is cooler than Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Berlin often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Berlin gets 160 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Budapest. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Berlin