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

Should you visit Ghent 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 Ghent 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a cultural, historic, and under-rated city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

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

Ghent and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Ghent or Bamberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ghent than Bamberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Ghent is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bamberg is known for its historical sights. Bamberg is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Ghent is popular for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also home to The Fortress of Gravensteen.

How is Ghent different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ghent
Bamberg

Ghent 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 Ghent can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ghent
Bamberg

Ghent 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, Ghent makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Ghent
Bamberg

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Ghent has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Ghent
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The historic old town of Bamberg is revered around the world. 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.


Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Bamberg?

Ghent
Bamberg

Ghent is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Ghent is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

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 Ghent or Bamberg Better for Families?

Ghent
Bamberg

Both Ghent and Bamberg are good family-friendly destinations.

Ghent is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Bamberg is a family-friendly city. 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 Ghent or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Ghent
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Ghent makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.


Is Ghent or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ghent
Bamberg

Both Ghent and Bamberg are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

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

Is Ghent or Bamberg Better for Students?

Ghent
Bamberg

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Ghent is a great destination for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Ghent
Bamberg

Ghent 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 Ghent is top-notch. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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


Is Ghent or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Ghent
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Ghent is a very walkable city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ghent and Bamberg. In our opinion, Ghent has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ghent 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 Ghent. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ghent than Bamberg 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 Ghent.


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

One day in Ghent or Bamberg?

In Ghent, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

In Bamberg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Ghent or Bamberg?

In Ghent, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Ghent or Bamberg?

Ghent is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Bamberg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Ghent or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the storybook destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Ghent?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ghent is €118, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is €127. 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 Ghent and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ghent 72
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ghent 144
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Ghent and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Ghent 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 Ghent


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: Ghent Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ghent 19
    Bamberg 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Bruges- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Business Car: $147
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van: $166
  • Ghent <-> Amsterdam Shuttle Transfer (1 to 8 Seats): $229
  • Ostend <-> Luxembourg transfer (1 to 8 places): $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Ghent or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Ghent 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
    Ghent 35
    Bamberg 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

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

  • Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $102
  • Small-Group Food Tour in Ghent by Bike: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ghent 8.64
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Ghent

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.26
  • Ghent city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent: $5.45
  • Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.08
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $11
  • 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center: $11

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
    Ghent 18
    Bamberg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

  • Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Private Ghent Beer & Brewery Tour by a young local: $245

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 comparing the travel costs between Ghent and Bamberg, we can see that Bamberg 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 Ghent Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ghent or Bamberg?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent 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 Ghent or Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ghent in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Ghent is cooler than Bamberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Bamberg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ghent. Ghent usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ghent 17°C (63°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and Ghent during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ghent for 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, Ghent is a little warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ghent in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Bamberg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in October than Bamberg. Ghent 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
    Ghent 12°C (54°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Bamberg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Bamberg. The winter months attract visitors to Ghent 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 Ghent can be very cold. In January, Ghent is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 3°C (38°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Ghent usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ghent 3°C (38°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Bamberg. The natural beauty are the main draw to Ghent this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the natural beauty.

Ghent is cooler than Bamberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bamberg. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ghent 8°C (47°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Ghent

Ghent Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)