A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Heidelberg vs. Bamberg for Old Town, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a lively, charming, and scenic town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a storybook, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Heidelberg and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
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


Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Bamberg?

Both Bamberg and Heidelberg have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Heidelberg is better known for its food, nightlife, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bamberg is more popular for its museums. Heidelberg is well known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Bamberg is well known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

How is Heidelberg different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Bamberg is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bamberg. 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Heidelberg or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Heidelberg 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, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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 Heidelberg or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Heidelberg is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Heidelberg offers plenty to do in the evening. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Heidelberg and Bamberg.

Heidelberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Bamberg has a world-famous historical area. 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Bamberg?

Heidelberg
Bamberg

If you're looking to go shopping, Heidelberg and Bamberg both offer plenty of notable spots.

Heidelberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Bamberg is a great destination for shopping. 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 Heidelberg or Bamberg Better for Families?

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Both Heidelberg and Bamberg are notable family-friendly destinations.

Heidelberg offers lots of family activities. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Bamberg is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Heidelberg or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

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.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.


Is Heidelberg or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Heidelberg is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Bamberg is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Heidelberg or Bamberg Better for Students?

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Heidelberg is a nice place to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Heidelberg is a well-known place 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Heidelberg. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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


Is Heidelberg or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Heidelberg
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Heidelberg is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Bamberg?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Bamberg than Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg.


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

One day in Heidelberg or Bamberg?

In Heidelberg, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With museums and food around the storybook town of Bamberg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bamberg, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Bamberg?

In Heidelberg, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Heidelberg has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Bamberg, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Heidelberg or Bamberg?

Heidelberg 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, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Bamberg?

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

Bamberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best Music Tours in Germany, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Heidelberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Heidelberg is €142, 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 Heidelberg and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heidelberg 93
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heidelberg 186
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Heidelberg and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heidelberg 17
    Bamberg 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $104
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251

Is it cheaper to fly into Heidelberg or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37
    Bamberg 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $596

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heidelberg 11
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.38
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Pure experience: Original Black Forest farmer smoke tour: $6.52
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.93
  • Heidelberg Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.93
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.51
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.32
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $279
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $239
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Food and Beer Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heidelberg 17
    Bamberg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295

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 Heidelberg and Bamberg, we can see that Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Bamberg?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Bamberg?

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 Heidelberg or Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg and Heidelberg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Heidelberg is around the same temperature as Bamberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heidelberg in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Bamberg averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In Bamberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heidelberg. In the summer, Heidelberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets more rain in July than Bamberg. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Bamberg. Most visitors come to Heidelberg 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 October, Heidelberg is generally a little warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 12°C (54°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Heidelberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during autumn. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heidelberg usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Bamberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Bamberg. The winter months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of 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 Heidelberg can be very cold. Heidelberg is much warmer than Bamberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets more rain in January than Bamberg. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heidelberg is a little warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heidelberg in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Bamberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Heidelberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during spring. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heidelberg usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Heidelberg

Heidelberg Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)