A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Leipzig for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cesis or Leipzig?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Leipzig can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a traditional, quaint, and small town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

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.

Cesis and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Cesis or Leipzig?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Leipzig. Although Cesis and Leipzig are popular destinations, Leipzig has more sights and attractions for tourists. Leipzig is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Cesis attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Leipzig is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner. It is also well known for The Old City Hall. Cesis is famous for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or Leipzig?

Cesis
Leipzig

Leipzig is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cesis or Leipzig? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
Leipzig

Leipzig is a city with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. 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.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Leipzig

Leipzig is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Leipzig has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Leipzig

Cesis is adequate for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Cesis is a good place to visit the old town. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.


Is Cesis or Leipzig Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Leipzig

Cesis is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Leipzig is not a hiking destination.

Cesis has hiking trails worth exploring. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Leipzig is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Leipzig?

Cesis
Leipzig

Leipzig is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Leipzig Better for Families?

Cesis
Leipzig

Both Cesis and Leipzig are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cesis. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Leipzig offers lots of family activities. 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.


Is Cesis or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Cesis
Leipzig

Both Cesis and Leipzig are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cesis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Leipzig is a good town for couples to visit. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

Is Cesis or Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Leipzig

Cesis and Leipzig are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cesis is a good town to visit for backpackers. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Cesis or Leipzig Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cesis
Leipzig

Leipzig is well known for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Leipzig can get you to some places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.


Is Cesis or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Cesis
Leipzig

Cesis and Leipzig both are nice when exploring on foot.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable place. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Leipzig?

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

Families should spend more time in Leipzig than Cesis. 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 Cesis. 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 Cesis 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 Cesis or Leipzig? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Leipzig 1-3

One day in Cesis or Leipzig?

Cesis is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Leipzig, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Cesis or Leipzig?

Cesis might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Cesis has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leipzig. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Cesis or Leipzig?

Cesis 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.

Leipzig is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Leipzig. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cesis or Leipzig?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cesis. Since Cesis is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the dynamic destination of Leipzig. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Leipzig or Cesis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €108, while the average daily cost in Leipzig is €166. 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 Cesis and Leipzig in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Leipzig 91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Leipzig 182
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Leipzig

Looking for a hotel in Cesis 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 Cesis


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: Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    Leipzig 27

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 Cesis or Leipzig?

Prices for flights to both Leipzig and Cesis 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
    Cesis 41
    Leipzig 53
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

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


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

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.
    Cesis 16
    Leipzig 36

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
    Cesis 17
    Leipzig 26


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cesis and Leipzig, we can see that Leipzig is more expensive. And not only is Cesis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cesis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cesis 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 Cesis.

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


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Leipzig?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis 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 Cesis 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 Cesis or Leipzig in the Summer?

Both Leipzig and Cesis during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cesis for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Leipzig because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cesis is generally cooler than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 17°C (63°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

Cesis usually gets more rain in July than Leipzig. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Leipzig in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Leipzig. The autumn months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Leipzig this time of year.

Cesis is much colder than Leipzig in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Leipzig fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In October, Cesis usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Leipzig in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Leipzig. The cuisine are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Leipzig for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Leipzig. It's quite cold in Cesis in the winter. In the winter, Cesis is much colder than Leipzig. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cesis in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Leipzig averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than Leipzig. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Leipzig in the Spring?

Both Leipzig and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cesis for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Cesis is generally much colder than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 5°C (42°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than Leipzig. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Cesis

Cesis Leipzig
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)