A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bristol vs. Munich for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Bristol or Munich?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Munich can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bristol

Bristol is a authentic, historic, and diverse city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Munich

Munich is a high energy, multicultural, and economically thriving city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Bristol and Munich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Bristol or Munich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich than Bristol. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Munich is more touristy than Bristol and is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also well known for The Nymphenburg Palace. Bristol is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies.

How is Bristol different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bristol or Munich?

Bristol
Munich

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Munich and Bristol.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.


Is the Food Better in Bristol or Munich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bristol
Munich

Munich is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Munich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Bristol offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Is Bristol or Munich Better for Nightlife?

Bristol
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Munich is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

Bristol has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Is Bristol or Munich Better for Music?

Bristol
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Bristol is not a live music destination.

Munich has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Bristol is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Munich?

Bristol
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Munich specifically to go shopping. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Bristol is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

Is Bristol or Munich Better for Families?

Bristol
Munich

Munich is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Munich. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Bristol is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Is Bristol or Munich Better for Couples?

Bristol
Munich

Munich is great for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.


Is Bristol or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bristol
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

A large number of backpackers visit Munich, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bristol or Munich Better for Students?

Bristol
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Munich is a very popular city for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Bristol is a good city to visit for students. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Is Bristol or Munich Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bristol
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Munich can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

Bristol has a few public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.


Is Bristol or Munich a more walkable city?

Bristol
Munich

Bristol and Munich are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Bristol is a very walkable destination. The city center is well designed for walking.

Munich is very walkable. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Bristol Worth Visiting? and Is Munich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Munich or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Munich?

In either Bristol or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than Bristol because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bristol, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich than Bristol 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 Munich.


  • How many days in Bristol or Munich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bristol 1-3 
    Munich 2-5

One day in Bristol or Munich?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bristol. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Munich is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Bristol or Munich?

Bristol is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Because Munich is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Munich has to offer.


Five days in Bristol or Munich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bristol. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bristol or Munich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Bristol. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Munich. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Munich or Bristol?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bristol is £91, while the average daily cost in Munich is £127. 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 Bristol and Munich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bristol £49
    Munich £76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bristol £98
    Munich £152
Compare Hotels in Bristol and Munich

Looking for a hotel in Bristol or Munich? 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 Bristol


Hotels in Munich


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: Bristol Hotel Prices and Munich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Munich £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bristol

Also for Bristol, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol by Business Car: $78
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol by Luxury Car: $85
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Business Car: $90
  • Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton hotels - Arrival Transfer: $172
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to Bristol City: $148
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to London city: $680
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Transfer to Southampton city hotels: $781
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Car: $108
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport to London City Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $160

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    £1.97
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    £4.45
  • City transport day ticket
    £9.58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Private transfer from Munich to Vienna: $930
  • Private transfer from Munich to Prague: $706
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer from/to Munich airport: $292
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 3h on Eagle's Nest: $284
  • Private Car from Munich to Prague: Transfer with 2h Sightseeing: $284
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing with Local Driver: $279
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 4h of Sightseeing: $272
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Nuremberg with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Salzburg to Munich Transfer: $267
  • Transfer Munich to Kaprun,Zell am See,Flachau,Stubai,Kitzbuhel,Innsbruck & Other: $259
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 2 hours for sightseeing: $257
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Passau, 2 Hour Stop in Dachau: $257

Is it cheaper to fly into Bristol or Munich?

Prices for flights to both Munich and Bristol 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
    Bristol £32
    Munich £23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bristol

For Bristol, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • (Thur 7pm) Comedy Magic Show includes 1x Pizza & 2 glasses of Prosecco: $25

Typical Food Prices in Munich

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


  • Bratwurst
    £4.28
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    £1.67

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Food Tour Beer- 3 small beers & "Brotzeit" in GERMAN: $79
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265
  • Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner : $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Munich £25

Tours and Activities in Bristol

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

  • Self-Guided Sightseeing Audio Tour: $5.31
  • Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour with Optional Tasting: $5.31
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Bristol's Harbourside History: $5.99
  • The Harbourside's Hidden History Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Bristol's Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City: $6.99
  • Brunel’s A Self-Guided Tour from SS Great Britain to Clifton Bridge: $7.99
  • Brunel’s Iconic Engineering Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Bristol's Time-Honored Pubs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Experiences: $12

Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    £3.42
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    £7.70
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    £12
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    £21

Tours and Activities in Munich

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

  • 2 Hours VIP Private Segway Tour: $91
  • 2-hour Private Walking Tour in Munich: $214
  • 2-hour city tour by bike in Munich to the hotspots of the Isar metropolis: $35
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $210
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $211
  • A Tour inside Munich's Justizpalast: $24
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $202
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $207
  • Andechs Monastery Beer Hike Food Experience Private Tour (departs Munich): $208
  • Art & Heritage: Private Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $202
  • Art & Heritage: Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $395
  • Bad Tölz Private Guided Walking Tour: $220

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bristol £11
    Munich £31

Sample the Local Flavors in Bristol

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

  • Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99

Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    £10

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

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

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Max & Moritz: Interactive Wine Tasting Experience: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $288
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bristol or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bristol. When comparing the sizes of Bristol and Munich, 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 Bristol or Munich?

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 Bristol or Munich in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Munich. Most visitors come to Bristol for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Munich because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bristol is cooler than Munich in the summer. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Bristol usually gets less rain in July than Munich. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bristol 18°C (64°F) 
    Munich 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Bristol because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

In the autumn, Bristol is a little warmer than Munich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bristol in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In October, Bristol usually receives more rain than Munich. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bristol 13°C (55°F) 
    Munich 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Munich in the Winter?

Both Munich and Bristol during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Munich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Munich. In January, Bristol is generally much warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 6°C (43°F), and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Munich. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bristol 6°C (43°F) 
    Munich -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Munich in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Munich. Many travelers come to Bristol for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Munich in the spring for the activities around the city.

Bristol is cooler than Munich in the spring. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Munich. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bristol 10°C (50°F) 
    Munich 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Munich and Bristol

Bristol Munich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)