A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Geneva vs. Bamberg for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a diverse, international, and professional city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a scenic, storybook, and historic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Geneva and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Geneva or Bamberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Geneva than Bamberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Geneva is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bamberg is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Geneva and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Geneva is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also home to The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Geneva different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Geneva
Bamberg

Geneva 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 Geneva can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

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 Geneva or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Geneva
Bamberg

Geneva 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, Geneva makes for a great culinary experience. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

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 Geneva or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Geneva
Bamberg

Geneva 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 Geneva. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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 Geneva or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Geneva
Bamberg

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Bamberg offers plenty to see. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.


Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or Bamberg?

Geneva
Bamberg

Geneva is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Geneva is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva or Bamberg Better for Families?

Geneva
Bamberg

Both Geneva and Bamberg are good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Geneva. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Bamberg offers lots of family activities. 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 Geneva or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Geneva
Bamberg

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.


Is Geneva or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Geneva
Bamberg

Bamberg is a good destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Bamberg Better for Students?

Geneva
Bamberg

Geneva is a well-known place for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Geneva is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Geneva
Bamberg

Geneva is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Geneva is top-notch. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

Bamberg has some public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Geneva or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Geneva
Bamberg

Bamberg is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Bamberg?

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

Couples should spend more time in Bamberg than Geneva. 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.


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

One day in Geneva or Bamberg?

Because Geneva is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Geneva or Bamberg?

Because Geneva is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Geneva has to offer.

Bamberg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Geneva or Bamberg?

Geneva 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Geneva or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Geneva. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Geneva. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Bamberg. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Geneva?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Geneva is $210, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is $136. 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 Geneva and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Geneva $145
    Bamberg $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Geneva $290
    Bamberg $160
Compare Hotels in Geneva and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Geneva 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 Geneva


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: Geneva Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Geneva $9.38
    Bamberg $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Geneva Int Airport (GVA) to La Clusaz - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Lausanne - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Geneva to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Geneva Airport: $71
  • VIP Transfer: $72
  • Arrival Transfer from Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva by Sedan: $73
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Verbier - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Hotels to Geneva Airport: $86
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Geneva Hotels : $86
  • Geneva Airport Transfers : Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA in Business Car: $87
  • Geneva Departure Private Transfers from Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA: $87
  • Geneva Passenger Transfer to Chamonix Mont Blanc: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Geneva or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Geneva 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
    Geneva $52
    Bamberg $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

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

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $144
  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class: $185
  • Food tour in Geneva: $2,406

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Geneva $30
    Bamberg $18

Tours and Activities in Geneva

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Geneva Lakeside Stroll: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • From Brunswick Monument to the Botanical Garden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Old Town Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Geneva Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Many Faces of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • International District Self-Guided City Sightseeing: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Geneva (International District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56
  • Bayreuth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided tour - World Heritage Fascination: $14
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $19
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $21
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Geneva $22
    Bamberg $21

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 Geneva and Bamberg, we can see that Geneva 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 Geneva would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Geneva 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 Geneva Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Geneva or Bamberg?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Geneva 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.


When is the best time to visit Geneva or Bamberg?

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 Geneva or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Bamberg. Many visitors come to Geneva in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Geneva is a little warmer than Bamberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In Geneva, it's very sunny this time of the year. Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during summer. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Geneva usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Geneva 22°C (71°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Geneva as well as Bamberg. Most visitors come to Geneva for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Geneva is a little warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Geneva in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Bamberg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Geneva often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in October than Bamberg. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Geneva 14°C (56°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Geneva because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bamberg in the winter. The weather in Geneva can be very cold. In January, Geneva is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 4°C (39°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Geneva usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Geneva 4°C (39°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Geneva during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Geneva this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bamberg for the natural beauty.

Geneva is a little warmer than Bamberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Geneva often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in April than Bamberg. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Geneva 11°C (53°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Geneva

Geneva Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)