A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Flam vs. Brescia for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Flam or Brescia?

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 Flam and Brescia. 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.

Flam

Flam is a beautiful, natural, and breathtaking village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and hiking.

Brescia

Brescia is a authentic, under-rated, and historic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Flam and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Flam or Brescia?

Both Brescia and Flam have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Flam is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Brescia is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Flam is more touristy than Brescia and is popular for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port. Brescia is popular for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Flam different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Flam or Brescia?

Flam
Brescia

Brescia is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

Brescia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.


Is the Food Better in Flam or Brescia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Flam
Brescia

Dining out at restaurants in both Flam and Brescia can be an enjoyable experience.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Flam. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants as well.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Brescia. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Flam or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Flam
Brescia

Brescia is a good destination for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.

Is Flam or Brescia Better for Hiking?

Flam
Brescia

Flam is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Brescia is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Flam. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Brescia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Flam or Brescia?

Flam
Brescia

Brescia is a great city for shopping. However, Flam is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Brescia. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.

Is Flam or Brescia Better for Families?

Flam
Brescia

Flam is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Flam is a very family-friendly place to visit. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Flam or Brescia Better for Couples?

Flam
Brescia

Flam is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Flam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.


Is Flam or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Flam
Brescia

Flam is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Flam or Brescia Better for Students?

Flam
Brescia

Brescia is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Flam is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Flam is not popular with students.

Is Flam or Brescia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Flam
Brescia

Flam and Brescia both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Flam offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a local bus service through the area.

Brescia has a few public transit options. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.


Is Flam or Brescia a more walkable city?

Flam
Brescia

Flam is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Flam is very walkable. There are many great walks in the area.

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Flam Worth Visiting? and Is Brescia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Flam?

How long in Flam or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Flam or Brescia to fill your time. In our opinion, Flam has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Flam than Brescia. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Flam than Brescia 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 Flam.


  • How many days in Flam or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Flam 1-2 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Flam or Brescia?

Flam is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A weekend in Flam or Brescia?

Flam 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Flam has to offer.

Brescia 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.


Five days in Flam or Brescia?

Flam is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

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

A week in Flam or Brescia?

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

The under-rated city of Brescia 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Norway, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Flam?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Flam is $111, while the average daily cost in Brescia is $154. 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 Flam and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Flam $58
    Brescia $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Flam $116
    Brescia $160
Compare Hotels in Flam and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Flam or Brescia? 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 Flam


Hotels in Brescia


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: Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Flam $17
    Brescia $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Flam or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Flam 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
    Flam $36
    Brescia $50

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

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


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

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

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Flam $17
    Brescia $33

Tours and Activities in Brescia

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

  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $402
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $223
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114
  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Brescia’s Historic Heart: A Family Exploration Tour: $288
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $386
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $197
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Christmastime Walking Tour: $719
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $118
  • CSTRents - Brescia Segway PT Authorized Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Flam $3.68
    Brescia $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


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

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


Which is Bigger, Flam or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 380 times larger than the population of Flam. When comparing the sizes of Flam and Brescia, 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 Flam or Brescia?

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 Flam or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Flam as well as Brescia. Many visitors come to Flam in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Brescia for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Flam is much colder than Brescia in the summer. The daily temperature in Flam averages around 15°C (58°F) in July, and Brescia fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Flam receives a lot of rain in the summer. Flam usually gets more rain in July than Brescia. Flam gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Flam 15°C (58°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Flam or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Flam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Flam for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Brescia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Flam is much colder than Brescia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Flam in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Brescia averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Flam. In October, Flam usually receives more rain than Brescia. Flam gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Flam 9°C (48°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Flam or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Flam during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Flam because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brescia in the winter. The weather in Flam can be very cold. In January, Flam is generally a little warmer than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Flam average around 2°C (35°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. Flam usually gets more rain in January than Brescia. Flam gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Flam 2°C (35°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Flam or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Flam and Brescia. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Flam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Brescia for the natural beauty.

Flam is much colder than Brescia in the spring. The daily temperature in Flam averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Brescia fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Flam usually receives more rain than Brescia. Flam gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Flam 6°C (43°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Flam

Flam Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)