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

Should you visit Graz or Frankfurt?

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

Should I visit Graz or Frankfurt? 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 historical, beautiful, and medieval city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a modern, connected, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

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


Is there more to do in Graz or Frankfurt?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Frankfurt than Graz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Frankfurt is more popular for its big city activities, while Graz is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Graz is more touristy than Frankfurt and is known for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. Frankfurt is popular for its financial industry, its popularity as a transportation hub, and its active nightlife. It is also home to The Old Town Center.

The Old Town Center
The Old Town Center

How is Graz different from Frankfurt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Graz
Frankfurt

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Graz and Frankfurt.

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

Many visitors head to Frankfurt specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many sights are concentrated in the old town center. Highlights include the Historical Museum and St. Nicholas Church. Elsewhere, make sure you check out Maintower, the Städel Museum, and the Museum District.


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

Graz
Frankfurt

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Graz and Frankfurt.

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 Frankfurt is an experience not to be missed. In addition to a number of international restaurants, the city also has a strong regional cuisine. Some of the most interesting local dishes include Frankfurter Sausage, Rindwurst, Grüne Soße (an herb sauce), and Handkäse mit Musik (marinated sour milk cheese). Also make sure you sample the Apfelwein.

Is Graz or Frankfurt Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Frankfurt

The vibe at night is great in both Graz and Frankfurt.

Many people head to Graz for the nightlife scene. 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.

Frankfurt has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's a vibrant city with many trendy clubs, cocktail bars, music venues, and more. You can enjoy techno, hip hop, and almost any style of music. There are also festivals, beer halls, and classic pubs.

Is Graz or Frankfurt Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Frankfurt

Graz is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

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

Many visitors go to Frankfurt to see the historical old town. Many museums and cafes are concentrated in the old town area.


Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Frankfurt?

Graz
Frankfurt

If you're looking to go shopping, Graz and Frankfurt both offer plenty of great 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 Frankfurt. It's a financial capital in Europe, and as such there are plenty of high end shopping opportunities. MyZeil is a major shopping mall in the city and Kleinmarkthalle is a more classic market. Popular shopping neighborhoods and streets include Goethestrasse, Sachsenhausen and Berger Strasse.

Is Graz or Frankfurt Better for Families?

Graz
Frankfurt

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Graz or Frankfurt.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Graz is very family-friendly. 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.

Frankfurt is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. In town there's a zoo, a children’s museum, a math and technology museum (EXPERIMINTA), and a number of parks, natural areas, and playgrounds. If you're willing to head out of town then you can visit Taunus Wunderland, which is an amusement park with about 50 rides and attractions.

Is Graz or Frankfurt Better for Couples?

Graz
Frankfurt

Graz is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Graz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Frankfurt is a nice destination for couples. The iconic spot of romance in the city is the Iron Footbridge, which is a traditional spot to attach a "love lock" and take a selfie. The city also offers river cruises, winery tours, and beautiful parks and natural areas.


Is Graz or Frankfurt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Frankfurt. You'll find a number of hostels in town. The city is also a major transportation hub so many backpackers pass through the area at some point on their trip through Germany.

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

Is Graz or Frankfurt Better for Students?

Graz
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Many students frequent Frankfurt. The city offers prestigious universities and a world class education. The economy offers many internships and job opportunities and you'll find students from around the world studying here. Frankfurt is also well connected to the rest of Europe, so it's easy to explore the region.

Graz is very popular with students. 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.

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

Graz
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Frankfurt has a great public transit system. It is a huge transportation hub with a major international airport and a number of international train connections. Locally, the city has a subway, trams, commuter trains and buses.

Graz offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.


Is Graz or Frankfurt a more walkable city?

Graz
Frankfurt

Graz is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Frankfurt is very walkable. It has a compact city center that is generally pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Frankfurt or Graz?

How long in Graz or Frankfurt?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Graz and Frankfurt. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Frankfurt.

Families should spend more time in Graz than Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt than Graz 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 Frankfurt.


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

One day in Graz or Frankfurt?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Graz. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Frankfurt is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Graz or Frankfurt?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the medieval destination of Graz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Graz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the connected big city of Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt?

Graz is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

The diverse city of Frankfurt 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 Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt is €122. 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 Frankfurt in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Frankfurt 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Frankfurt 116
Compare Hotels in Graz and Frankfurt

Looking for a hotel in Graz or Frankfurt? 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 Frankfurt


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Frankfurt 25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

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

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Frankfurt

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Frankfurt:


  • Car Rental
    50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Frankfurt

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

  • Private transfer from Frankfurt am Main to Prague: $1,059
  • Transfer from Frankfurt Airport to Munich: $695
  • Transfer from Frankfurt Airport to Baden-Baden: $396
  • Frankfurt Highlights Private Car Tour with Airport Transfers: $383
  • Private Transfer: Frankfurt to River Cruise Dock Nuremberg Port/Harbor transport: $284
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Frankfurt Airport (FRA)- Kaiserlautern: $267
  • Private Transfer Frankfurt Airport to Heidelberg City by Minivan: $157
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to Baden-Baden Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $142
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA): Private Transfer to Frankfurt: $140
  • BaronFleet Frankfurt- Arrival & Departure Airport Transfers: $132
  • Roundtrip Transfer Private Minivan Frankfurt Airport (FRA) - Frankfurt City: $123
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to Frankfurt Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109

Is it cheaper to fly into Graz or Frankfurt?

Prices for flights to both Frankfurt 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
    Frankfurt 41

Typical Food Prices in Frankfurt

For Frankfurt, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Soda
    2.00
  • Bagel Sandwich and Latte
    7.00
  • Ham & Cheese Sandwich and Coffee
    6.00
  • Sandwich and Cola
    7.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Frankfurt

For Frankfurt, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • FOOD TOUR WITH 3-4 LOCAL INSIDER FOODSPOTS: $80
  • Eltz Castle Small-Group Tour from Frankfurt with Dinner: $281

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Graz 13
    Frankfurt 36

Tours and Activities in Graz

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

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

Tours and Activities in Frankfurt

For Frankfurt, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-Hour Best of Frankfurt Walking Tour (English): $26
  • Atta Dripstone Cave and Braunfels Castle Tour from Frankfurt: $271
  • Bike Tour of Frankfurt Top Attractions & Nature with a Guide : $207
  • Bike tour city tour by bike to Skyline, Goethe, and apple wine: $53
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Breathtaking Pearls of Frankfurt - Walking Tour: $242
  • Cologne & Limburg Full-Day Tour: $283
  • Culinary Frankfurt Walking Tour: $609
  • Exciting private city tour of Frankfurt for your group: $164
  • Explore Bird & Marine Wildlife private Boat Tour in English: $108
  • Franfurt Horror Tour: Terror of the White Spider: $20
  • Frankfurt - Old Town Historic Walking Tour: $374

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Graz 16
    Frankfurt 30

Typical Alcohol Prices in Frankfurt

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Frankfurt:


  • Becks Beer
    2.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Frankfurt

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Frankfurt:

  • Night Pub Crawl through Alt-Sachsenhausen: $21
  • Enjoy the night with our Pub Tours: $32
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through Alt-Sachsenhausen: $34
  • Full Day Private Rhine Valley Wine Tour Experience from Frankfurt: $279
  • Frankfurt Wine Tasting Tour with a Wine Expert: $280
  • Frankfurt Wine Tasting Tour with a Wine Expert: $286
  • Guided Walk Tour With Apple Wine Tasting: $334
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513
  • Private Rhine Valley tour with river cruise & wine tasting: $748


When comparing the travel costs between Graz and Frankfurt, we can see that Frankfurt 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 Graz Expensive? and Is Frankfurt Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Graz or Frankfurt?

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

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 Graz or Frankfurt in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Frankfurt. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Graz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Frankfurt for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Graz is a little warmer than Frankfurt. Typically, the summer temperatures in Graz in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Frankfurt averages at about 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Frankfurt this time of the year. In Graz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Graz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Frankfurt during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Frankfurt receives 225 hours of full sun in the summer.

Graz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Graz usually receives more rain than Frankfurt. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Frankfurt 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Graz or Frankfurt in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Graz as well as Frankfurt. Many travelers come to Graz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Frankfurt in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Graz is generally a little warmer than Frankfurt. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 13°C (55°F), and Frankfurt fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Graz often gets more sunshine than Frankfurt. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Frankfurt receives 103 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets more rain in October than Frankfurt. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Frankfurt 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Graz or Frankfurt in the Winter?

Both Frankfurt and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Graz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Frankfurt for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Frankfurt can be very cold during winter. Graz can get quite cold in the winter. Graz is cooler than Frankfurt in the winter. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Frankfurt fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Graz usually receives more sunshine than Frankfurt during winter. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Frankfurt receives 41 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Graz usually receives less rain than Frankfurt. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Graz or Frankfurt in the Spring?

Both Frankfurt and Graz during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Graz for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Frankfurt because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Graz is a little warmer than Frankfurt. Typically, the spring temperatures in Graz in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Frankfurt averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Graz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Frankfurt. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Frankfurt receives 163 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Frankfurt. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Frankfurt 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Frankfurt and Graz

Graz Frankfurt
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 1°C (34°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 19°C (67°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 2°C (36°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)