A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bern vs. Washington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Bern or Washington?

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

Should I visit Bern or Washington? 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Bern and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bern or Washington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington than Bern, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Bern is known for its historical sights. Washington is more touristy than Bern and is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House. Bern is popular for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory.

How is Bern different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Bern 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 Washington that are not to be missed. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Many visitors head to Bern specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Is Bern or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is a well-known place for theatre. However, Bern is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Bern is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

Is Bern or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Washington 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.

Washington offers plenty to do in the evening. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington Better for Music?

Washington is a popular place for live music. However, Bern is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Washington is active and vibrant. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Bern is not a live music destination.

Is Bern or Washington Better for its Old Town?

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

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Bern or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Bern is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Bern is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bern or Washington?

Both Bern and Washington are great shopping destinations.

Bern is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Washington is well-known for its shopping. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Bern or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Bern does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination during the Christmas season. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Bern does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bern or Washington Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bern or Washington.

Bern is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Washington is very family-friendly. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Bern or Washington Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Bern and Washington make for a great place to visit.

Bern is a very popular place to visit for couples. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.

Washington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Bern or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bern is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Bern is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Like most of Switzerland, prices are a bit high, but there are some hostels and free activities that backpackers and budget travelers can enjoy.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Bern or Washington Better for Students?

Washington is renowned for students. However, Bern is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Bern is not popular with students.

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

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

Washington has a great public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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

Is Bern or Washington a more walkable city?

Washington is renowned for its walkability. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Washington or Bern?

How long in Bern or Washington?

Both Bern and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Bern. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bern, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

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

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

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

One day in Bern or Washington?

With museums and nightlife around the charming city of Bern, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bern, one day is sufficent for most.

Washington 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.

A weekend in Bern or Washington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bern, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Washington is a fun place to experience. 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 Washington?

Bern, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a international 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.

A week in Bern or Washington?

Bern is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Washington is a active 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.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bern or Washington?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bern. When comparing the sizes of Bern and Washington, 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 Washington?

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 Washington in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bern as well as Washington. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bern this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bern is cooler than Washington in the summer. The daily temperature in Bern averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bern this time of the year. In the summer, Bern often gets less sunshine than Washington. Bern gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Bern usually gets less rain in July than Washington. Bern gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bern or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington and Bern are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bern for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Washington in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bern is cooler than Washington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bern in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Washington averages at about 60°F (15°C).

Bern usually receives less sunshine than Washington during autumn. Bern gets 126 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bern usually receives less rain than Washington. Bern gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bern or Washington in the Winter?

Both Washington and Bern during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bern in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Washington can be very cold during winter. Bern can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bern is generally much warmer than Washington. Daily temperatures in Bern average around 3°C (37°F), and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Bern often gets less sunshine than Washington. Bern gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun.

Bern usually gets less rain in January than Washington. Bern gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bern or Washington in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bern and Washington. Most visitors come to Bern for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Washington because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Bern is cooler than Washington in the spring. The daily temperature in Bern averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. Bern usually receives less sunshine than Washington during spring. Bern gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bern usually receives less rain than Washington. Bern gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Washington and Bern