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

Should you visit Bucharest or Leipzig?

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 Leipzig. 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 historical, less touristy, and undiscovered city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a dynamic, cultural, and historic city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bucharest or Leipzig?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bucharest than Leipzig. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bucharest is very popular for its historical sights and big city activities, while Leipzig attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Leipzig is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. It is also well known for The Palace of Parliament.

How is Bucharest different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Leipzig 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 Leipzig?

Bucharest
Leipzig

Leipzig 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 Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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 Leipzig? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
Leipzig

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Bucharest and Leipzig.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bucharest. 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).

Leipzig is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Bucharest or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Leipzig

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Bucharest and Leipzig.

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Leipzig has a few options to choose from. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Bucharest or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Leipzig

Bucharest is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Bucharest is a good destination for visiting its old town. 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.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Leipzig?

Bucharest
Leipzig

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

Leipzig is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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 Leipzig Better for Families?

Bucharest
Leipzig

Leipzig is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Leipzig. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

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 Leipzig Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Leipzig

Leipzig is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

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 Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Leipzig

Bucharest and Leipzig are nice 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 Leipzig. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

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

Bucharest
Leipzig

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

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

Leipzig offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Is Bucharest or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Leipzig

Bucharest and Leipzig both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.


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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Leipzig?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bucharest and Leipzig. In our opinion, Leipzig has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Leipzig than Bucharest. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


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

One day in Bucharest or Leipzig?

In Bucharest, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Leipzig. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Leipzig has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Leipzig?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Leipzig. 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 Leipzig?

Bucharest is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Leipzig. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Bucharest or Leipzig?

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

Leipzig is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Leipzig 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 Leipzig is $178. 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 Leipzig in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $63
    Leipzig $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $126
    Leipzig $194
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Leipzig

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or Leipzig? 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 Leipzig


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 Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    Leipzig $29

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 Leipzig

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

  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Leipzig?

Prices for flights to both Leipzig 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
    Leipzig $56

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

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

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Leipzig $39

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 Leipzig

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

  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • Leipzig's Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of the City's Communist Past: $6.99
  • Historic Center Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sighteeing Tour: $12
  • Guided Crime-Themed Walking Tour: $13
  • Old Town Guided Tour: $13
  • 1.5-Hour Historical Walking Tour in German: $14
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour - Explore Your Way: $14
  • Guided Tour of the Southern Cemetery: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.17
    Leipzig $28

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

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


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Leipzig?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Leipzig. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

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 Leipzig in the Summer?

Both Leipzig and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Leipzig for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Leipzig, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Leipzig. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F) 
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Leipzig in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Leipzig. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Leipzig because of the shopping scene.

Bucharest is a little warmer than Leipzig in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Leipzig fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Leipzig. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F) 
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Leipzig in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Leipzig. The winter months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Leipzig this time of year.

It's quite cold in Leipzig in the winter. The weather in Bucharest can be very cold. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than Leipzig. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and Leipzig averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Leipzig. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F) 
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Leipzig in the Spring?

Both Leipzig and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year.

In April, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Leipzig. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F) 
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Bucharest

Bucharest Leipzig
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)