A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bregenz vs. Dresden for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Bregenz or Dresden?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bregenz and Dresden can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bregenz

Bregenz is a medieval, vibrant, and cultural city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dresden

Dresden is a friendly, architectural, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bregenz and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Bregenz or Dresden?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dresden. Although Bregenz and Dresden are popular destinations, Dresden has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dresden is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Bregenz attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Dresden is more touristy than Bregenz and is popular for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). It is also well known for Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace. Bregenz is famous for its lakefront setting, its rich culture, and its fun-filled festivals.

How is Bregenz different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bregenz or Dresden?

Bregenz
Dresden

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Dresden and Bregenz.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bregenz. The sights are split between the Lower Town and the Upper Town. There's a long history with many historic buildings and museums that you can explore.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.


Is the Food Better in Bregenz or Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bregenz
Dresden

Bregenz is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Bregenz is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many restaurants around town that serve local dishes. Popular options include fish dishes, roasted venison, and baked rabbit. The food is hearty and often served with filling sauces. Cheese platters are also popular.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Bregenz or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Bregenz
Dresden

Dresden is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Bregenz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Dresden has something for everybody. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bregenz. You'll find bars and clubs around town as well as a lively beach bar by the lake.

Is Bregenz or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Bregenz
Dresden

Dresden is a great city for its historic old town charm. Also, Bregenz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Many visitors go to Bregenz to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with medieval buildings that each have a fascinating and sometimes dark story to tell.


Is the Shopping Better in Bregenz or Dresden?

Bregenz
Dresden

If you're looking to go shopping, Bregenz and Dresden both offer plenty of nice spots.

Bregenz has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. A mix of international brands and local shops make shopping a fun and diverse experience. Wandering the streets and popping in the selection of retail stores is a fun way to spend the afternoon.

Dresden is a great destination for shopping. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Is Bregenz or Dresden Better for Families?

Bregenz
Dresden

Bregenz is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Bregenz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Its location on Lake Constance means that there are a wide range of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. There are also a number of kid-friendly museums, zoos, and other places that will inspire young minds.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Bregenz or Dresden Better for Couples?

Bregenz
Dresden

Bregenz is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Bregenz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The lakefront setting offers a romantic atmosphere for couples. There's a lakefront promenade that you can stroll down as well as several great museums and some interesting historical sights.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.


Is Bregenz or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bregenz
Dresden

For backpackers, both Bregenz and Dresden are nice places to visit.

Bregenz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels around town that make this an easy stop off for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dresden. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Is Bregenz or Dresden Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bregenz
Dresden

Bregenz and Dresden both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Bregenz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are five bus lines that run around town.

Dresden has a few public transit options. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Bregenz or Dresden a more walkable city?

Bregenz
Dresden

Dresden is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Bregenz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

Bregenz is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are walkable and easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Bregenz Worth Visiting? and Is Dresden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Bregenz?

How long in Bregenz or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bregenz and Dresden. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dresden than Bregenz 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 Dresden.


  • How many days in Bregenz or Dresden? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bregenz 1-3 
    Dresden 1-3

One day in Bregenz or Dresden?

In Bregenz, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

In Dresden, 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.

A weekend in Bregenz or Dresden?

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

In Dresden, 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 Dresden has to offer.

Five days in Bregenz or Dresden?

Bregenz is a great place to explore. 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.

Dresden 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.


A week in Bregenz or Dresden?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dresden. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dresden. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Music Tours in Austria, The Best Budget Tours to Austria, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dresden or Bregenz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bregenz is €122, while the average daily cost in Dresden is €135. 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 Bregenz and Dresden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bregenz 66
    Dresden 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bregenz 132
    Dresden 122
Compare Hotels in Bregenz and Dresden

Looking for a hotel in Bregenz or Dresden? 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 Bregenz


Hotels in Dresden


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: Bregenz Hotel Prices and Dresden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bregenz 17
    Dresden 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dresden

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dresden:

  • Private Transfer from Dresden to Prague with 2 hours for sightseeing: $158
  • One-Way Transfer from Dresden Airport (DRS) to Dresden: $146
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - First Class: $136
  • Private Transfer from Dresden City to Leipzig City: $83
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - Business Van: $77

Is it cheaper to fly into Bregenz or Dresden?

Prices for flights to both Dresden and Bregenz 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
    Bregenz 41
    Dresden 31
Typical Food Prices in Bregenz

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


  • Lunch from Market (for 2)
    6.62
  • Kebabs for Dinner (for 2)
    8.00
  • Chocolate
    1.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dresden

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

  • Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $51
  • Winterlights Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $59
  • Dinner-Show "INDUSTRIELLE REVOLUTION": $117

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bregenz 14
    Dresden 9.56

Tours and Activities in Bregenz

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

  • Bregenz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bregenz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Surprise tour of Bregenz guided by a Local: $149
  • Bregenz - Historic Guided walking tour: $289
  • Bregenz - Historic Guided walking tour: $294
  • Magical Christmas Walking Tour: $769

Tours and Activities in Dresden

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

  • 2 Hour GDR Walking Tour in Dresden: $44
  • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Dresden: $44
  • 2 day ticket Grand City Tour Hop on Hop off 22 stops: $24
  • 3H Private Walking Tour: Dresden city centre and Old Masters Painting Gallery: $300
  • Astonishing Dresden - Guided Walking Tour: $427
  • Bad Schandau Scooter Tour in Saxon, Switzerland: $52
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden - Hiking Tour: $171
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden- Fantasy Tour: $171
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden- Winter Tour: $171
  • Bicycle tour of Dresden: $32
  • Big Sightseeing Tour in Dresden with Liveguide: $21
  • Big city tour hop on hop off 22 stops: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bregenz 18
    Dresden 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Dresden

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dresden:

  • Dresden Bike Tour with Wine Tasting: $53
  • Radeberger Brewery Tour in German: $57
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401


When comparing the travel costs between Bregenz and Dresden, we can see that Dresden is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Bregenz or Dresden?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bregenz. When comparing the sizes of Bregenz and Dresden, 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.