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

Should you visit Berlin or Flam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin or Flam, 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 eclectic, diverse, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

Flam

Flam is a natural, breathtaking, and beautiful village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Berlin and Flam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Berlin or Flam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Berlin. Although Berlin and Flam are popular destinations, Berlin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Berlin is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Flam attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Berlin is famous for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. It is also well known for the Brandenburg Gate. Flam is famous for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Berlin different from Flam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Berlin
Flam

Berlin is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Berlin from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.


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

Berlin
Flam

Dining out at restaurants in both Berlin and Flam 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 Flam is an experience not to be missed. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants as well.

Is Berlin or Flam Better for Nightlife?

Berlin
Flam

Berlin is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.

Is Berlin or Flam Better for Music?

Berlin
Flam

Berlin is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Flam is not a live music destination.

Berlin is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Flam is not a live music destination.


Is Berlin or Flam Better for Hiking?

Berlin
Flam

Flam is a great village for hiking. However, Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Flam for the hiking trails. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Flam?

Berlin
Flam

Berlin is an unbeatable place for shopping. However, Flam is not known for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Berlin. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.

Is Berlin or Flam Better for Families?

Berlin
Flam

Berlin and Flam are both great destinations for the whole family.

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.

Flam is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.


Is Berlin or Flam Better for Couples?

Berlin
Flam

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

Flam is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.

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 Flam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin
Flam

Berlin is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Berlin. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Berlin or Flam Better for Students?

Berlin
Flam

Berlin is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Flam is not popular with students.

Berlin is a very popular place to visit 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.

Flam is not popular with students.


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

Berlin
Flam

Berlin is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its public transit.

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.

Flam has a few public transit options. There is a local bus service through the area.

Is Berlin or Flam a more walkable city?

Berlin
Flam

Flam is a great village for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Flam is a very walkable village. There are many great walks in the area.

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 Flam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Flam or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or Flam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Berlin or Flam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Berlin than Flam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Berlin, and 1-2 days is enough time in Flam.

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

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


  • How many days in Berlin or Flam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berlin 2-7 
    Flam 1-2

One day in Berlin or Flam?

Berlin is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Flam might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Berlin or Flam?

Berlin is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Flam 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 Flam?

Berlin is a artsy big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Flam. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Berlin or Flam?

Berlin is a creative city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Flam is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Norway, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Flam or Berlin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Berlin is €137, while the average daily cost in Flam is €104. 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 Berlin and Flam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berlin 64
    Flam 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berlin 128
    Flam 108
Compare Hotels in Berlin and Flam

Looking for a hotel in Berlin or Flam? 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 Berlin


Hotels in Flam


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: Berlin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berlin 18
    Flam 16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Berlin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Berlin:


  • Short Trip Metro Ticket
    1.40
  • Bahn Ticket
    3.00
  • Short Taxi Ride
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berlin

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

  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague: $727
  • Private Highlights Tour with Hotel Transfers: $367
  • Trabi Limousine Airport Transfer with City Tour: $358
  • Private Minivan Transfer with Driver and Guide: $321
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Berlin APT-HTL (SXF): $300
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Berlin HTL-APT (SXF): $300
  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague with stops at Potsdam + Sanssouci Palace: $295
  • Private Transfer from Berlin to Nuremberg with 2h of Sightseeing: $276
  • Private Transfer, Berlin to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing, 8 pax: $273
  • Classic Remise Private Tour with Transfer: $271
  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague with Terezin Concentration Camp stop: $267
  • Private Transfer: Berlin to River Cruise Dock Nuremberg - Port/Harbor transport: $263

Is it cheaper to fly into Berlin or Flam?

Prices for flights to both Flam and Berlin 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
    Berlin 52
    Flam 33
Typical Food Prices in Berlin

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Berlin:


  • Sandwich and Coffee To Go
    5.00
  • Turkish Sandwich
    2.00
  • Currywurst
    2.00
  • 2 Pho Noodles
    9.00
  • Restaurant Dinner and Beers (for 2)
    60
  • Mauer Park (2)
    11
  • Coffees at Impala
    7.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berlin

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

  • English Stand-Up Comedy with Pizza and Shots: $19
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • English Comedy Showcase Including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $28
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin With Set Lunch or Dinner : $34
  • Kreuzberg kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Berlin Mitte kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • No Diet Club - Street Food Tour with many Tastings !: $59
  • Evening Yacht Cruise with Aperitif & Optional Dinner: $63
  • Sicilian Cooking Workshop with unlimited drinks: $70
  • Evening Food Tour by Bike: $70
  • Sharing plate food tour in Berlin: $76
  • Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berlin 22
    Flam 16
Typical Entertainment Prices in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Berlin Zoo (2)
    20

Tours and Activities in Berlin

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Berlin.

  • East Berlin and the Berlin Wall 2-Hour Walking Tour : $22
  • Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour from Berlin.: $32
  • (E) Bike Tour for Non Bikers option Rickshaw Shared Guide: $48
  • 2 Hours Berlin City Guided Electric Trike Tour: $59
  • 2 Hours E-Scooter Tour: $60
  • 2-Hour Private Berlin Walking Tour, Berlin in the Third Reich and Cold War: $213
  • 2-Hour Segway Discovery Tour Berlin: $75
  • 3 Hours Berlin City Guided Electric Trike Tour: $73
  • 3-Hour Bike Tour of Tiergarten and Berlin's Hidden Places: $35
  • 3-Hour Private Berlin Bike Tour: Vibes of Berlin: $184
  • 3D Adventure black light mini golf (Berlin): $21
  • 4 Hours 2 Person Highlights Berlin Rickshaw Tour with Guide : $207

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berlin 16
    Flam 3.44
Typical Alcohol Prices in Berlin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Berlin from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Show
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Berlin

Also in Berlin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original One80 Berlin Pub Crawl: $16
  • VIP Pub Crawl with Drinks and Challenges: $16
  • brewery tour with beer tasting: $19
  • Vagabund Brauerei Beer Tasting & Guided Brewery Tour: $24
  • Pub Crawl with Skip-the-Line Club Entry: $24
  • Berlin Pub Crawl and Nightlife Clubbing tour: $26
  • The Showgirls of Burlesque: $46
  • Showgirls of Burlesque Entry Ticket: $69
  • Berlin:sunset boat trip with Argentine wine tasting and food: $214
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $250
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $255
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Berlin and Flam, we can see that Berlin is more expensive. And not only is Flam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Flam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Flam 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 Flam.

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


Which is Bigger, Berlin or Flam?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 6850 times larger than the population of Flam. When comparing the sizes of Berlin and Flam, 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 Flam?

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 Flam in the Summer?

Both Flam and Berlin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Berlin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Flam in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Berlin is generally a little warmer than Flam. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around 19°C (66°F), and Flam fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. In July, Berlin usually receives less rain than Flam. Berlin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Flam receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Berlin 19°C (66°F) 
    Flam 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Berlin or Flam in the Autumn?

Both Flam and Berlin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Berlin in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Flam for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Berlin is a little warmer than Flam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Flam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Berlin usually gets less rain in October than Flam. Berlin gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Flam receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Berlin 10°C (50°F) 
    Flam 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Berlin or Flam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Berlin and Flam. Most visitors come to Berlin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Flam because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Flam can be very cold. Berlin can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Berlin is much colder than Flam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Berlin in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Flam averages at about 2°C (35°F).

Flam receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Berlin usually receives less rain than Flam. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Flam receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Berlin -0°C (31°F) 
    Flam 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Berlin or Flam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Berlin as well as Flam. The spring months attract visitors to Berlin because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Flam this time of year.

In April, Berlin is generally a little warmer than Flam. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around 9°C (47°F), and Flam fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It's quite rainy in Flam. Berlin usually gets less rain in April than Flam. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Flam receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Berlin 9°C (47°F) 
    Flam 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Flam and Berlin

Berlin Flam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in)