A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Sounion vs. Heidelberg for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Heidelberg? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a impressive, spectacular, and iconic destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a charming, scenic, and character-filled town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Cape Sounion and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heidelberg. Although Cape Sounion and Heidelberg are popular destinations, Heidelberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heidelberg is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cape Sounion attracts visitors for its museums and beaches. Heidelberg is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. It is also well known for The Heidelberg Castle. Cape Sounion is famous for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

How is Cape Sounion different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Cape Sounion is an amazing destination to visit for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Sounion has many famous sights for visitors. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Heidelberg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Sounion is lacking in options for nightlife.

Heidelberg has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Is Cape Sounion or Heidelberg Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Cape Sounion is a good destination for the beach. However, Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Cape Sounion offers a nice beach destination. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Heidelberg is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Heidelberg has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Heidelberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cape Sounion or Heidelberg.

Cape Sounion is a family-friendly destination. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Heidelberg. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.


Is Cape Sounion or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Heidelberg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Is Cape Sounion or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Cape Sounion or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Sounion is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Cape Sounion is not popular with students.


Is Cape Sounion or Heidelberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Heidelberg can get you to most places easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

You'll find some public transit in Cape Sounion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

Is Cape Sounion or Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Sounion Worth Visiting? and Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heidelberg than Cape Sounion 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 Heidelberg.


  • How many days in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Heidelberg 1-3

One day in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

With museums and food around the iconic destination of Cape Sounion, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Sounion, one day is sufficent for most.

In Heidelberg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this quaint town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.


A weekend in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

With food and museums around the destination of Cape Sounion, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this destination.

Heidelberg is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

Cape Sounion, a popular destination, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find nightlife and food around the charming destination of Heidelberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

Cape Sounion is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Heidelberg is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Heidelberg or Cape Sounion?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, while the average daily cost in Heidelberg is €142. 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 Cape Sounion and Heidelberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Heidelberg 93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Heidelberg 186
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Heidelberg

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion or Heidelberg? 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 Cape Sounion


Hotels in Heidelberg


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Heidelberg 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

Prices for flights to both Heidelberg and Cape Sounion 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
    Cape Sounion 41
    Heidelberg 37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Heidelberg 11

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • 2 1/2h Guided Bicycle Tour Discover Heidelberg: $46
  • Alternative Heidelberg Tour.: $71
  • Amazing Schwetzingen Garden Tour: $238
  • Beer and Old Town Tour: $98
  • Bicycle Tour from Heidelberg to quaint Ladenburg.: $120
  • Culinary city tour in Heidelberg with delicious samples: $43
  • E.Bike Tours around Heidelberg: $153
  • Evening Heidelberg tour with historical night watchman: $17
  • Experience the Local Food around Mannheim: $64
  • Fascinating Heidelberg Sightseeing Walking Tour: $217
  • Food & Fables Tour of Heidelberg : $131
  • Guided Tour of Student Rabble, Whore Pack and the French War: $373

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    Heidelberg 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Sounion and Heidelberg, we can see that Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion Expensive? and Is Heidelberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion and Heidelberg, 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 Cape Sounion or Heidelberg?

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 Cape Sounion or Heidelberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Heidelberg. Most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the family-friendly experiences.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Heidelberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heidelberg this time of the year. In Cape Sounion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Heidelberg. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year.

In the autumn, Cape Sounion is much warmer than Heidelberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Sounion in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in October than Heidelberg. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Heidelberg in the Winter?

Both Heidelberg and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Heidelberg. In January, Cape Sounion is generally much warmer than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 10°C (51°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during winter. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Heidelberg in the Spring?

Both Heidelberg and Cape Sounion during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the spring for the natural beauty.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Heidelberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in April than Heidelberg. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion Heidelberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)