A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bratislava vs. Brescia for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bratislava or Brescia?

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

Should I visit Bratislava or Brescia? 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.

Bratislava

Bratislava is a under-rated, genuine, and cultural city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brescia

Brescia is a under-rated, historic, and undisovered city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bratislava and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bratislava or Brescia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bratislava than Brescia, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bratislava is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Brescia is known for its food and shopping. Brescia is more touristy than Bratislava and is known for its historic and archeological sights. Bratislava is popular for its local beer, charming old town, and scenic mountain setting. It is also home to The Bratislava Castle.

How is Bratislava different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bratislava or Brescia?

Bratislava
Brescia

Bratislava is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bratislava can be an interesting and educational experience. Despite its small size, the city is packed with interesting sights and attractions. A highlight of a visit is exploring the Bratislava Castle. Other notable sights include Michael's Gate, the Slovak National Theatre, Grassalkovich Palace, and Primate's Palace & Hall of Mirrors.

Brescia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


Is the Food Better in Bratislava or Brescia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bratislava
Brescia

Brescia is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brescia makes for a great culinary experience. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Bratislava has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Slovakian food is hearty and uses a few staple ingredients like cheese and dumplings. The dishes are warm and filling on a cool day, so it's nice to step into a cozy restaurant and rest after a day of exploring. Popular local dishes include bryndzové halušky (sheep's cheese gnocchi), kapustnica (cabbage soup), and goulash.

Is Bratislava or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Bratislava
Brescia

Bratislava is well known for nightlife. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Bratislava is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has grown in popularity as a center for nightlife with many people visiting from nearby Vienna. There are a growing number of stag and hen parties around town, but you'll also find sophisticated wine bars and a refined social scene. Many of the city's clubs are found in old town around Michalská, Obchodná and Ventúrska streets as well as Hviezdoslavovo and SNP squares.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Bratislava or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Bratislava
Brescia

Bratislava is well known for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bratislava to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with diverse architecture as well as traditional and upscale restaurants.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bratislava or Brescia?

Bratislava
Brescia

Brescia is notable for shopping. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Brescia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bratislava. Shopping has come to life here, with three large shopping malls and many shopping streets where you'll find local boutiques. The city has both global brands as well as more traditional shops where you can buy local items. Popular things to purchase while you're in town include traditional clothing, wooden crosses, corn husk dolls, and local alcohol such as slivovica.

Is Bratislava or Brescia Better for Families?

Bratislava
Brescia

Bratislava is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bratislava. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the lack of tourist crowds when compared to other European cities, even during school holidays. You can explore the city and enjoy a laid back vibe without the chaos of navigating through tour groups and large crowds. There's also a nice old town as well as gardens, playgrounds, palaces, and the Bratislava Castle.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Bratislava or Brescia Better for Couples?

Bratislava
Brescia

With fun activities for couples, both Bratislava and Brescia make for a good place to visit.

Bratislava is a nice destination for couples. Couples that enjoy stepping away from tourist crowds will appreciate this relaxed city. There is the beautiful Janko Kráľ Park as well as the Bratislava Castle that you can explore. It's enjoyable to simply walk around the old town and soak up the atmosphere as well. There are also many great restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy a night out.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.


Is Bratislava or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bratislava
Brescia

Bratislava is well known for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bratislava. The city offers an affordable and unique alternative to some of the larger and well known cities that are nearby. There are a couple of hostels and some affordable hotels that will help you keep your expenses down.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Bratislava or Brescia Better for Students?

Bratislava
Brescia

Brescia is a popular place for students. However, Bratislava is not popular with students.

Brescia is a good city to visit for students. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Bratislava is not popular with students.

Is Bratislava or Brescia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bratislava
Brescia

Bratislava is well known for its public transit. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Bratislava can move around easily with public transportation. There are trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

While Brescia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.


Is Bratislava or Brescia a more walkable city?

Bratislava
Brescia

Bratislava is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Bratislava on foot is easy. One of the best ways to experience the city is to walk around. The old town is also a large pedestrian zone.

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Bratislava Worth Visiting? and Is Brescia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Bratislava?

How long in Bratislava or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bratislava or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bratislava than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bratislava, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bratislava than Brescia 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 Bratislava.


  • How many days in Bratislava or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bratislava 1-3 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Bratislava or Brescia?

In Bratislava, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With museums and nightlife around the historic city of Brescia, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brescia, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Bratislava or Brescia?

In Bratislava, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bratislava has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Brescia, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Bratislava or Brescia?

Bratislava is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Bratislava or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bratislava. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bratislava. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Brescia 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Slovakia, The Best River Cruises in Slovakia, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Bratislava?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bratislava is €122, while the average daily cost in Brescia is €144. 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 Bratislava and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bratislava 49
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bratislava 98
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Bratislava and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Bratislava or Brescia? 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 Bratislava


Hotels in Brescia


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: Bratislava Hotel Prices and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bratislava 26
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bratislava

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bratislava:

  • Bratislava - Budapest Transfer: $199
  • Bratislava Airport (BTS) to Bojnice Resorts - Round Trip Transfer: $131
  • Bratislava Airport BTS to Piestany Round Trip Private Transfer: $94
  • Bratislava Airport to Bojnice Resorts - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava Airport to Turčianske Teplice Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava-Budapest One-Way Sightseeing Transfer: $295
  • Airport to Hotel Private Transfer Service: $24
  • Private Direct Transfer From Bratislava to Vienna City Center: $87
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava City to Vienna City: $98
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest with 2h of Sightseeing: $202
  • Private transfer from Bratislava to Vienna: $263
  • Vienna Airport VIE to Bojnice Resorts Round Trip Private Transfer: $131

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Bratislava or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Bratislava 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
    Bratislava 45
    Brescia 47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bratislava

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bratislava.

  • Local Beer & Food Tour: $142
  • Bratislava Traditional Food Tour: $169

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brescia.

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bratislava 30
    Brescia 31

Tours and Activities in Bratislava

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bratislava are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Top experience walking tour with bonus and castle: $4.36
  • Bratislava Old Town In App Audio Tour (ENG): $5.43
  • City & Castle Tour - Introduction to Bratislava: $5.45
  • Historic City Centre Self-guided Tour: $6.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Bratislava Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Gallery Multium Entrance Ticket: $6.95
  • Gallery Multium Entrance Ticket: $7.10
  • The jewels of Bratislava a Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87

Tours and Activities in Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Tour in Lugana DOP - 3 wines from Perla del Garda: $33
  • Sirmione Sunset Tour: $38
  • Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour with a Drink On Board: $57
  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Italy most underrated city:Brescia-Walking tour with a drink: $74
  • Photographic tour at sunset on Lake Garda: $78
  • Canyoning "Gumpenfever" - beginner Canyoningtour for everyone: $84
  • Lake Cruise (visit Torri & Gargnano): $91
  • Desenzano e-bike tour: $98
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bratislava 19
    Brescia 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Bratislava

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bratislava:

  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier in Bratislava: $14
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier: $15
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $16
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $21
  • Bratislava 3-Hour Wine Tasting: $104
  • Devin Castle Tour with Currant Wine Tasting: $144
  • Devin Castle Tour with Wine Tasting: $158
  • Bratislava Food and Wine Tour: $180
  • Little Carpathian Wine Tour: $201
  • 6-Hour Carpathian Wine Tour and Tasting: $209

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bratislava or Brescia?

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

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 Bratislava or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bratislava and Brescia. Many travelers come to Bratislava for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brescia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Bratislava is around the same temperature as Brescia in the summer. The daily temperature in Bratislava averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Brescia fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brescia this time of the year. In Bratislava, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bratislava usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during summer. Bratislava gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bratislava usually receives less rain than Brescia. Bratislava gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bratislava 23°C (73°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Bratislava or Brescia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bratislava as well as Brescia. Many visitors come to Bratislava in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Bratislava is cooler than Brescia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bratislava in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Brescia averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Bratislava often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia. Bratislava gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun.

Bratislava usually gets less rain in October than Brescia. Bratislava gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bratislava 12°C (54°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Bratislava or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Bratislava are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bratislava for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Brescia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brescia can be very cold. Bratislava can be very cold during winter. In January, Bratislava is generally a little warmer than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Bratislava average around 2°C (36°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Bratislava usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during winter. Bratislava gets 65 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bratislava usually receives less rain than Brescia. Bratislava gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bratislava 2°C (36°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Bratislava or Brescia in the Spring?

Both Brescia and Bratislava during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Bratislava because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

Bratislava is around the same temperature as Brescia in the spring. The daily temperature in Bratislava averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Brescia fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Bratislava. In the spring, Bratislava often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Bratislava gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun.

Bratislava usually gets less rain in April than Brescia. Bratislava gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bratislava 13°C (55°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Bratislava

Bratislava Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)