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

Should you visit Graz or Brescia?

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

Should I visit Graz or Brescia? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Graz

Graz is a beautiful, medieval, and cultural city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brescia

Brescia is a authentic, under-rated, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Graz and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Graz or Brescia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Graz than Brescia. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Graz is more touristy than Brescia and is popular for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. It is also well known for The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower. Brescia is famous for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Graz different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Graz
Brescia

Graz is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Graz can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

Brescia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Graz
Brescia

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Graz and Brescia.

Graz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Dining out in Brescia is an experience not to be missed. 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 Graz or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Brescia

Graz is well known for nightlife. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Graz is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

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.

Is Graz or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Brescia

Graz is renowned for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Graz is one of the most recognized in the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Brescia?

Graz
Brescia

If you're looking to go shopping, Graz and Brescia both offer plenty of very good spots.

Graz is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Is Graz or Brescia Better for Families?

Graz
Brescia

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

Graz is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

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 Graz or Brescia Better for Couples?

Graz
Brescia

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

Couples visit Graz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

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 Graz or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Brescia

Graz 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 Graz. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

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 Graz or Brescia Better for Students?

Graz
Brescia

Graz is well known for students. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Graz is a great city to visit as a student. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

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.

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

Graz
Brescia

Graz is well known for its public transit. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Graz can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

While Brescia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.


Is Graz or Brescia a more walkable city?

Graz
Brescia

Graz is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Graz on foot is easy. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Graz?

How long in Graz or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Graz or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Graz than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Graz 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 Graz.


  • How many days in Graz or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Graz 2-3 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Graz or Brescia?

In Graz, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Graz or Brescia?

In Graz, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Graz 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 Graz or Brescia?

Graz 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undisovered 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 Graz or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Graz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Graz. 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.

The historic 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Graz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Graz is €112, while the average daily cost in Brescia is €144. 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 Graz and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Graz and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Graz 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 Graz


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: Graz Hotel Prices and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

Also for Graz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207

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 Graz or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Graz 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
    Graz 32
    Brescia 47

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)
    23

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.
    Graz 13
    Brescia 31

Tours and Activities in Graz

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Graz.

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Kunsthaus Graz Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Graz city tours: $14
  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Guided Tour: Courtyards of Graz: $138
  • Tour with Private Guide: $176
  • Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $191

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
    Graz 16
    Brescia 23

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 Graz and Brescia, we can see that Brescia is more expensive. And not only is Graz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Graz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Graz 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 Graz.

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


Which is Bigger, Graz or Brescia?

Graz has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Brescia. When comparing the sizes of Graz 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 Graz 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 Graz or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Graz as well as Brescia. Many travelers come to Graz for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Brescia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Graz is generally around the same temperature as Brescia. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 23°C (73°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brescia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Graz this time of the year. In the summer, Graz often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Graz receives a lot of rain in the summer. Graz usually gets more rain in July than Brescia. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Graz or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Graz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Graz is around the same temperature as Brescia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Graz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia during autumn. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Graz usually receives less rain than Brescia. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Graz or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Graz during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Graz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Brescia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brescia can be very cold. Graz can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Graz is cooler than Brescia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Graz in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Brescia averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Graz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets less rain in January than Brescia. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Graz 1°C (34°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Graz or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Brescia. The spring months attract visitors to Graz because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

In April, Graz is generally around the same temperature as Brescia. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 13°C (55°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Graz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia during spring. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Graz usually receives less rain than Brescia. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Graz

Graz Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)


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