A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cambridge vs. Bamberg for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a beautiful, collegiate, and scholarly university town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a beautiful, scenic, and storybook town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Cambridge and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cambridge or Bamberg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bamberg than Cambridge. While Cambridge is larger than Bamberg, Bamberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bamberg is more popular for its historical sights, while Cambridge is known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Cambridge is popular for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it. Bamberg is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also home to the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus).

How is Cambridge different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cambridge
Bamberg

Cambridge 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 Cambridge can be an interesting and educational experience. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.

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 Cambridge or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cambridge
Bamberg

Cambridge 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, Cambridge makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

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 Cambridge or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Cambridge
Bamberg

Cambridge 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 Cambridge. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

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 Cambridge or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Cambridge
Bamberg

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Cambridge does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Bamberg can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Cambridge does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cambridge or Bamberg?

Cambridge
Bamberg

Cambridge is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Cambridge is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.

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 Cambridge or Bamberg Better for Families?

Cambridge
Bamberg

Both Cambridge and Bamberg are good family-friendly destinations.

Cambridge is a family-friendly university town. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bamberg. 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 Cambridge or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Cambridge
Bamberg

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Cambridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.


Is Cambridge or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cambridge
Bamberg

Cambridge and Bamberg are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Cambridge or Bamberg Better for Students?

Cambridge
Bamberg

Cambridge is an amazing university town to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Cambridge is a great destination for students. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Cambridge
Bamberg

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cambridge and Bamberg.

Cambridge has some public transit options. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.

You'll find some public transit in Bamberg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Cambridge or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Cambridge
Bamberg

Cambridge and Bamberg are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Cambridge. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Cambridge?

How long in Cambridge or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cambridge and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bamberg than in Cambridge. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cambridge, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Bamberg than Cambridge. 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge.


  • How many days in Cambridge or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cambridge 1-2 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Cambridge or Bamberg?

In Cambridge, you'll find nightlife and food. This university town 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 town of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bamberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Cambridge or Bamberg?

In Cambridge, 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 Cambridge has to offer.

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Bamberg. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Cambridge or Bamberg?

Cambridge 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 food and shopping when visiting the storybook town of Bamberg. 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 Cambridge or Bamberg?

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

Bamberg 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 3-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Cambridge?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cambridge is £134, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is £109. 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 Cambridge and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cambridge £72
    Bamberg £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cambridge £144
    Bamberg £128
Compare Hotels in Cambridge and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Cambridge 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 Cambridge


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: Cambridge Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cambridge £24
    Bamberg £12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cambridge

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

  • Private Transfer Heathrow To Cambridge: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Cambridge or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Cambridge 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
    Cambridge £41
    Bamberg £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cambridge £22
    Bamberg £14

Tours and Activities in Cambridge

For Cambridge, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.35
  • Self-Guided Colleges Walking Tour and Sightseeing: $5.99
  • Hidden Histories Self-Guided Smartphone Tour: $5.99
  • Cambridge’s Colleges and Classic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Cambridge Instagram Self-Guided Tour - Top Photo Spots: $6.35
  • Explore Cambridge's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Live Like a Student with Private Cambridge Self Guided Tours: $13
  • Explore Cambridge Student Life & Top Colleges Walking Tour: $13
  • Cambridge - Shared Punting Tour: $13
  • Shared Guided Punting Tour of Cambridge: $13
  • University Walking Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cambridge £23
    Bamberg £17

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

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


Which is Bigger, Cambridge or Bamberg?

Cambridge has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Cambridge 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.

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