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

Should you visit Geneva or Nuremberg?

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 Nuremberg. 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 professional, classy, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a charming, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Geneva and Nuremberg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Geneva or Nuremberg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Geneva than Nuremberg. While Nuremberg is larger than Geneva, Geneva has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Geneva is very popular for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Nuremberg attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nuremberg is more touristy than Geneva and is known for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. Geneva is famous for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also well known for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Geneva different from Nuremberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg?

Geneva
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Nuremberg that are not to be missed. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

Geneva offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.


Is the Food Better in Geneva or Nuremberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Geneva
Nuremberg

Geneva is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Geneva. 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.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Geneva or Nuremberg Better for Nightlife?

Geneva
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Nuremberg know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

If you're looking for night time activities Geneva has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Geneva or Nuremberg Better for its Old Town?

Geneva
Nuremberg

Nuremberg 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, Nuremberg offers plenty to see. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

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 Nuremberg?

Geneva
Nuremberg

Geneva is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Geneva make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nuremberg. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

Is Geneva or Nuremberg Better for Families?

Geneva
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Nuremberg is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Geneva or Nuremberg Better for Couples?

Geneva
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Nuremberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

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 Nuremberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Geneva
Nuremberg

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Nuremberg. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

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 Nuremberg Better for Students?

Geneva
Nuremberg

Geneva and Nuremberg are very good places to visit for students.

Many students visit Geneva. 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.

Nuremberg is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

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

Geneva
Nuremberg

Geneva is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Geneva can get you around easily. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

Nuremberg offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.


Is Geneva or Nuremberg a more walkable city?

Geneva
Nuremberg

Geneva and Nuremberg both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Nuremberg is a very walkable city. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nuremberg or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Nuremberg?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nuremberg than Geneva 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 Nuremberg.


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

One day in Geneva or Nuremberg?

People visit Geneva because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Geneva has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nuremberg. 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 Nuremberg?

People visit Geneva because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nuremberg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Nuremberg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the classy city of Geneva. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nuremberg. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Nuremberg?

Geneva is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Nuremberg. This city 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg is $111. 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 Nuremberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Geneva $145
    Nuremberg $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Geneva $290
    Nuremberg $130
Compare Hotels in Geneva and Nuremberg

Looking for a hotel in Geneva or Nuremberg? 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 Nuremberg


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 Nuremberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Geneva $9.38
    Nuremberg $13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Airport Transfer Geneva Airport to Villars sur Ollon: $361
  • Airport transfer - Geneva city center: $134
  • Arrival Transfer from Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva by Sedan: $73
  • Departure Transfer from Geneva to Geneva Airport GVA by MiniVan: $95
  • From Private Transfer to Chamonix Mont Blanc: $267
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Chamonix (FR) - Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Chamonix (FR) - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Courchevel (FR) Arrival Private Transfer: $174
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Geneva - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Lausanne - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Meribel (FR) - Arrival Private Transfer: $195
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Montreux - Arrival Private Transfer: $135

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with Beer Museum : $246
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $251
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $76
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $191
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $215
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $257
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $243
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Salzburg with 2h of Sightseeing: $290
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $204
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $268

Is it cheaper to fly into Geneva or Nuremberg?

Prices for flights to both Nuremberg 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
    Nuremberg $36

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nuremberg

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

  • 3-Hour St. Johannis Food Tour in German: $95
  • Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $95
  • Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $267

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Geneva $30
    Nuremberg $11

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 Nuremberg

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Southern Old Town": $3.20
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Northern Old Town": $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.28
  • Nuremberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.92
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Exploration Game & Guided Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg:Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.49
  • Self-guided Tour former Nazi Party Rally Grounds: $8.45
  • Self-guided tour around the Kaiserburg: $9.52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Geneva $22
    Nuremberg $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Nuremberg

Also in Nuremberg, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: $24
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513


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

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


Which is Bigger, Geneva or Nuremberg?

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

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 Nuremberg in the Summer?

Both Nuremberg and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Geneva for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Geneva is around the same temperature as Nuremberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Geneva in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Nuremberg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Nuremberg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Geneva. Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Nuremberg during summer. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Geneva usually receives less rain than Nuremberg. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Geneva 22°C (71°F) 
    Nuremberg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Nuremberg in the Autumn?

Both Nuremberg and Geneva during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Geneva because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nuremberg this time of year.

In October, Geneva is generally a little warmer than Nuremberg. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 14°C (56°F), and Nuremberg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Geneva often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 122 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Geneva 14°C (56°F) 
    Nuremberg 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Nuremberg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Nuremberg. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Geneva this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nuremberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nuremberg. It's quite cold in Geneva in the winter. Geneva is much warmer than Nuremberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Nuremberg fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Nuremberg during winter. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Geneva 4°C (39°F) 
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Nuremberg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Geneva as well as Nuremberg. Many travelers come to Geneva for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Nuremberg in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Geneva is a little warmer than Nuremberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Geneva in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Nuremberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Geneva often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 166 hours of full sun.

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


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

Typical Weather for Nuremberg and Geneva

Geneva Nuremberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (43°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 (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)