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

Should you visit Brisbane or Bern?

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 Brisbane and Bern can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a cultural, active, and relaxed coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bern

Bern is a cultural, historic, and charming city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Brisbane and Bern: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brisbane or Bern?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brisbane than Bern. Brisbane is bigger than Bern, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brisbane is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Bern is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Brisbane is well known for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas. Also, Brisbane is famous for the Cultural Centre. Bern is well known for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory.

How is Brisbane different from Bern?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brisbane or Bern?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Bern and Brisbane.

Many visitors head to Brisbane specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bern can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 the Food Better in Brisbane or Bern? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Brisbane and Bern can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Brisbane is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

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

Is Brisbane or Bern Better for Nightlife?

Brisbane 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.

Brisbane offers plenty to do in the evening. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

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

Is Brisbane or Bern Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Brisbane has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Bern is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brisbane or Bern Better for Beaches?

Brisbane is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Bern is not a beach destination.

Brisbane is considered a top beach destination. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Bern is not a beach destination.

Is Brisbane or Bern Better for its Old Town?

Bern is great for its historic old town charm. However, Brisbane 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.

Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

Is Brisbane or Bern Better for Hiking?

Brisbane is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bern is not a hiking destination.

Brisbane is a good destination for hiking. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Bern is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brisbane or Bern?

If you're looking to go shopping, Brisbane and Bern both offer plenty of great spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Brisbane. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

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.

Is Brisbane or Bern Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Brisbane or Bern.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brisbane. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

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.

Is Brisbane or Bern Better for Couples?

Bern is great for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Bern is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Brisbane or Bern Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Brisbane and Bern are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Brisbane or Bern Better for Students?

Brisbane is a well-known place for students. However, Bern is not popular with students.

Brisbane is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Bern is not popular with students.

Is Brisbane or Bern 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. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its public transit.

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

Brisbane has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Is Brisbane or Bern a more walkable city?

Brisbane and Bern are great when it comes to walkability.

Brisbane is a very walkable destination. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

Bern is very walkable. 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 Brisbane Worth Visiting? and Is Bern Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bern or Brisbane?

How long in Brisbane or Bern?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brisbane and Bern. In our opinion, Brisbane has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Brisbane than Bern. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Brisbane, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bern.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brisbane 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 Brisbane.

One day in Brisbane or Bern?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Brisbane. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful city of Bern offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brisbane or Bern?

Brisbane is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Bern is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bern, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brisbane or Bern?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxed destination of Brisbane. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bern is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brisbane or Bern?

The active coastal city of Brisbane offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Bern is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Switzerland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Brisbane or Bern?

Brisbane has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Bern. When comparing the sizes of Brisbane and Bern, 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 Brisbane or Bern?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Brisbane is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Bern has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Brisbane or Bern in the Summer?

Both Bern and Brisbane during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Brisbane for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bern because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Brisbane is a little warmer than Bern. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brisbane in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Bern averages at about 21°C (70°F)in July.

In Bern, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Brisbane. In the summer, Brisbane often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bernin July. Brisbane gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 250 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually gets more rain in January than Bernin July. Brisbane gets 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Bern receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or Bern in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brisbane and Bern. The autumn months attract visitors to Brisbane because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bern this time of year.

In April, Brisbane is generally much warmer than Bernin October. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 22°C (71°F), and Bern fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than Bern during autumn. Brisbane gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Brisbane gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Bernin October. Brisbane gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bern receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brisbane or Bern in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brisbane as well as Bern. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bern for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bern. Brisbane is much warmer than Bern in the winter. The daily temperature in Brisbane averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Bern fluctuates around 3°C (37°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In the winter, Brisbane often gets more sunshine than Bernin January. Brisbane gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 65 hours of full sun.

Brisbane usually gets more rain in July than Bernin January. Brisbane gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bern receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or Bern in the Spring?

Both Bern and Brisbane are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Brisbane for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Bern in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Brisbane is much warmer than Bern. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brisbane in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Bern averages at about 11°C (52°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than Bern during spring. Brisbane gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 164 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Bernin April. Brisbane gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Bern receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bern and Brisbane