A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bucharest vs. Graz for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bucharest or Graz?

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 Bucharest and Graz. 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a cultural, charming, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Graz

Graz is a beautiful, medieval, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Graz: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bucharest or Graz?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bucharest than Graz. Bucharest is bigger than Graz, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bucharest is better known for its big city activities, while Graz is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Graz is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. Also, Bucharest is famous for The Palace of Parliament.

How is Bucharest different from Graz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bucharest or Graz?

Bucharest
Graz

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Graz. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.


Is the Food Better in Bucharest or Graz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
Graz

Graz is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Graz. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Graz Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Graz

Graz is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Graz is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Graz Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Graz

Graz is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Graz is one of the most recognized in the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.


Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Graz?

Bucharest
Graz

Graz is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Graz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Graz Better for Families?

Bucharest
Graz

Graz is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Graz is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Graz Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Graz

Graz is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Graz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.


Is Bucharest or Graz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Graz

Bucharest and Graz are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Graz. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Bucharest or Graz Better for Students?

Bucharest
Graz

Graz is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Many students visit Graz. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

Is Bucharest or Graz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bucharest
Graz

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bucharest and Graz.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Graz offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.


Is Bucharest or Graz a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Graz

Graz is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Graz on foot is easy. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? and Is Graz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Graz or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Graz?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Graz than Bucharest 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 Graz.


  • How many days in Bucharest or Graz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bucharest 1-3 
    Graz 2-3

One day in Bucharest or Graz?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bucharest. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Graz. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Graz?

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Graz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Bucharest or Graz?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the less touristy destination of Bucharest. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Graz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Graz?

The charming city of Bucharest offers nightlife and food. 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.

Graz is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Christmas Market Tours in Austria, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Graz or Bucharest?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bucharest is $137, while the average daily cost in Graz is $120. 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 Bucharest and Graz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $63
    Graz $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $126
    Graz $144
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Graz

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or Graz? 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 Bucharest


Hotels in Graz


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: Bucharest Hotel Prices and Graz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    Graz $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Bucharest to Sofia - Private Transfer: $580
  • Bucharest to Sofia Private Transfer: $448
  • Bucharest to Mihail Kogalniceanu - Private Transfer: $344
  • Mihail Kogalniceanu to Bucharest - Private Transfer: $344
  • Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo - Private Transfer: $322
  • Bucharest to Fetesti - Private Transfer: $322
  • Bucharest to Craiova - Private Transfer: $301
  • Transfer Bucharest Airport to Brasov: $288
  • Bucharest (Romania) to Veliko Tarnavo (Bulgaria) - Private Guided Transfer : $283
  • Bucharest to Tulcea - Private Guided Transfer - Driver and Car : $283
  • Bucharest to Galati - Driver and Car - Private Guided Transfer : $272
  • Bucharest to Constanta or Mamaia Beach - Private Transfer - Car and Driver: $272

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

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

  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Graz?

Prices for flights to both Graz and Bucharest 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
    Bucharest $58
    Graz $35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

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

  • Dinner at the Museum of Communism - Traditional Food Tour: $53
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $60
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $65
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $74
  • Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $75
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $84
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $86
  • Private Walking Food Tour - Culture, History & Traditions: $98
  • Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $141
  • Cooking Class in Transylvania - Day Tour from Bucharest: $182
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $202

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Graz $14

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

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

  • Bears Sanctuary, Dracula's Castle, Brasov Day Trip Private Tour from Bucharest: $249
  • Bucharest Panoramic Sightseeing - Private City Tour: $93
  • Transylvania Heritage Tour at Peles Bran and Cantacuzino Castles: $93
  • 1 Day 4x4 Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $173
  • 1 Day ATV Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $207
  • 10h Bucharest City Tour & Snagov Monastery (Dracula's Grave): $258
  • 14 Days Private Tour in Romania, Moldova & Transnistria: $4,724
  • 2 Days Private Tour - The Romanian Caves from Bucharest: $558
  • 2 Hour Photoshoot Experience Near Bucharest Architectural Charms: $98
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Bucharest City: $87
  • 2-Day Medieval Transylvania with Brasov,Sibiu and Sighisoara Tour from Bucharest: $251
  • 2-Day Small-Group Tour to Dracula's Castle, Rasnov Fortress, Peles Castle, Sighisoara and Libearty Brown Bear Sanctuary with Overnight in Brasov: $203

Tours and Activities in Graz

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

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Kunsthaus Graz Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Graz city tours: $14
  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Guided Tour: Courtyards of Graz: $138
  • Tour with Private Guide: $176
  • Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $191

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.17
    Graz $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Bucharest

Also in Bucharest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Weekend Pub Crawl: $24
  • Bucharest Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $25
  • From Romanian Wine Tasting Tour: $26
  • Bachelors Party in Custom Bar Crawl: $37
  • Private Bar Crawling in Bucharest Old City: $43
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bucharest: $43
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $47
  • Romanian Wine Tasting: $49
  • Private Romanian Wine Tasting in Urlați: $51
  • Bucharest Old Town Pub and Bar Crawl with Guide: $57
  • Bucharest VIP Bar Crawl in Lipscani 'Old Town': $59
  • Bucharest City Tour and Wine Tasting: $84


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


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Graz?

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

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 Bucharest or Graz in the Summer?

Both Graz and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Graz for the family-friendly experiences.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Graz in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Graz fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Graz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Graz. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 236 hours of full sun.

Graz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bucharest usually gets less rain in July than Graz. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Graz receives 126 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F) 
    Graz 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Graz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Graz. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Graz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Graz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Graz averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Graz during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 139 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Graz. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Graz receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F) 
    Graz 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Graz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Graz. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Graz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Graz can be very cold during winter. Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Graz. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Graz fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Graz. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 95 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in January than Graz. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Graz receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F) 
    Graz 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Graz in the Spring?

Both Graz and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Graz because of the natural beauty.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Graz in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Graz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Graz during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Graz. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Graz receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F) 
    Graz 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Graz and Bucharest

Bucharest Graz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in) 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)