A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bern vs. San Diego for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bern or San Diego?

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

Should I visit Bern or San Diego? 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.

Bern

Bern is a cultural, historic, and charming city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Bern and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bern or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than Bern. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Bern attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Bern and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Bern is famous for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory.

How is Bern different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bern or San Diego?

Both Bern and San Diego have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Bern offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with architecture and charming character. While you're in town make sure you visit the Einstein Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Bern Cathedral.

Many visitors head to San Diego specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Is the Food Better in Bern or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Bern and San Diego.

Bern offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

San Diego has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

San Diego offers plenty to do in the evening. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bern. There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a well-known place for live music. However, Bern is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego is very popular with diverse venues. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Bern is not a live music destination.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a popular place for its resorts. However, Bern is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Bern is not a resort destination.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bern is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Bern is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is renowned for its beaches. However, Bern is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Bern is not a beach destination.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Bern is great for its old town. However, San Diego does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bern. The charming old town is filled with quaint alleys and sandstone buildings. It's a compact area that flows down a hill to the River Aare.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bern is not a hiking destination.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Bern is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bern or San Diego?

Bern is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Bern is well-known for its shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops and unique markets. The main shopping streets are Spitalgasse and Marktgasse and popular items to buy include jewelry, art, and watches.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Diego is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bern is very family-friendly. This charming town has riverside parks and pools, a zoo, a waterpark, and kid-friendly museums that the whole family can enjoy. You can also visit nearby Gurten, a mountain with tobogganing, concerts, and a mini ski resort.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is renowned for romance. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bern is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Bern. Like most of Switzerland, prices are a bit high, but there are some hostels and free activities that backpackers and budget travelers can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is renowned for students. However, Bern is not popular with students.

Many students frequent San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Bern is not popular with students.

Is Bern or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bern is great for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Bern can get you around easily. There are trams and buses that run around town.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Bern or San Diego a more walkable city?

Bern is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

Bern is a very walkable city. It's fun to explore the old town on foot. It is compact enough to that you can see all of the highlights in a few hours.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Bern Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Bern?

How long in Bern or San Diego?

In either Bern or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Bern because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bern, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bern than San Diego 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 Bern.

One day in Bern or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bern. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bern has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Diego. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bern or San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Bern. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

San Diego is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bern or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Bern. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the relaxed destination of San Diego. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bern or San Diego?

Bern is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The relaxed coastal city of San Diego offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Switzerland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bern and San Diego, we can see that Bern is more expensive. And not only is San Diego much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bern is in Europe and San Diego is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to San Diego would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Diego 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 Bern would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bern than you might in San Diego.

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

Which is Bigger, Bern or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bern. When comparing the sizes of Bern and San Diego, 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 Bern or San Diego?

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 Bern or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bern as well as San Diego. Most visitors come to Bern for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bern is around the same temperature as San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bern in July average around 21°C (70°F), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bern this time of the year. In the summer, Bern often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Bern gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

Bern usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Bern gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bern or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Bern are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Bern because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In October, Bern is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Bern average around 13°C (55°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Bern usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during autumn. Bern gets 126 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bern usually receives more rain than San Diego. Bern gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bern or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Bern during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bern this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Bern in the winter. Bern is much colder than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Bern averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Bern often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Bern gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Bern usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Bern gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bern or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bern and San Diego. Many travelers come to Bern for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Diego in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bern is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bern in April average around 11°C (52°F), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Bern usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during spring. Bern gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bern usually receives more rain than San Diego. Bern gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Bern