A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Bamberg for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Brussels or Bamberg?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Bamberg. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a colorful, multicultural, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a scenic, storybook, and historic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Brussels and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Brussels or Bamberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Bamberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bamberg is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)
La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brussels or Bamberg?

Brussels
Bamberg

Brussels is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brussels can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


Is the Food Better in Brussels or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels
Bamberg

Brussels is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Brussels or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Brussels
Bamberg

Brussels is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Brussels. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Brussels or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Brussels
Bamberg

Bamberg is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Bamberg is one of the most recognized in the world. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.


Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Bamberg?

Brussels
Bamberg

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Brussels or Bamberg Better for Families?

Brussels
Bamberg

Brussels is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Bamberg is a family-friendly city. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Brussels or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Brussels
Bamberg

Bamberg is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Bamberg is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.


Is Brussels or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels
Bamberg

Brussels is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Bamberg is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Brussels or Bamberg Better for Students?

Brussels
Bamberg

Brussels is a well-known place for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Brussels is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

Is Brussels or Bamberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels
Bamberg

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Bamberg has some public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Brussels or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Brussels
Bamberg

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

Getting around Bamberg on foot is easy. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Bamberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brussels and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than in Bamberg. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Bamberg 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 Brussels.


  • How many days in Brussels or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Brussels 1-5 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Brussels or Bamberg?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

The beautiful town of Bamberg 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 Brussels or Bamberg?

Because Brussels 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer.

Bamberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Bamberg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Brussels or Bamberg?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bamberg 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 Brussels or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

Bamberg 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 town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Brussels?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Brussels is €137, while the average daily cost in Bamberg 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 Brussels and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brussels 73
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brussels 146
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Brussels and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Brussels or Bamberg? 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 Brussels


Hotels in Bamberg


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: Brussels Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brussels 17
    Bamberg 14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:


  • Subway Pass
    4.50
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    8.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Brussels Airport: Transfer to/from Gent Sint Pieters Station: $11
  • Airport Transfer to/from Lille City Center: $16
  • Brussels to Brussels Airport (BRU) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Brussels to Ostend Airport (OST) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer from Brussels City to Brussels Airport(BRU): $44
  • Private One-way from Brussels Transfer To Brussels Airport: $45
  • Transfer to Brussels National Airport: $58
  • Airport Arrivals Private Transfer to the City: $60
  • Arrival Private Transfer Brussels Train Station to Brussels by Luxury Car or Van: $68
  • VIP Transfer between City/ Airport and Ghent: $70
  • Airport transfers from Brussels to Zaventem Brussels airport by luxury car: $74
  • Brussels Zaventem Airport Private Transfer from/to Brussels: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Brussels or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Brussels 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
    Brussels 38
    Bamberg 41
Typical Food Prices in Brussels

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


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    4.60
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    4.75
  • Cheese
    5.60
  • Olives and Snacks
    6.98
  • Waffle
    3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $28
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $29
  • City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $61
  • Food Tour in Brussels - Do Eat Better Experience: $106
  • Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $130
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $137
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $163

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brussels 23
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Brussels

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Brussels - by Legends: $3.26
  • Free Tour of Brussels in Italian (with booking fee): $3.26
  • The Most Complete Tour Of Brussels: $3.26
  • BELvue Belgium History Museum Entry Ticket: $5.35
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Museum Halle Gate Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56
  • Bayreuth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided tour - World Heritage Fascination: $14
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $19
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $21
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brussels 13
    Bamberg 19
Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    10
  • Beer
    6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $17
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


When comparing the travel costs between Brussels and Bamberg, we can see that Brussels 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 Brussels Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Brussels or Bamberg?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Bamberg, 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 Brussels or Bamberg?

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 Brussels or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Bamberg. Many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Bamberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Brussels 18°C (65°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Bamberg. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is a little warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Bamberg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in October than Bamberg. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Brussels 12°C (54°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Brussels because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bamberg in the winter. The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In January, Brussels is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Brussels 3°C (38°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Brussels during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the natural beauty.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Bamberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Bamberg. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Brussels 10°C (49°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Brussels

Brussels Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)