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

Should you visit Heidelberg or Brescia?

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 Brescia. 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 energetic, lively, and charming town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Brescia

Brescia is a authentic, under-rated, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg and Brescia: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Brescia?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heidelberg than Brescia. While Brescia is larger than Heidelberg, Heidelberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heidelberg is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Brescia is more popular for its museums and shopping. Heidelberg is more touristy than Brescia and is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Also, Heidelberg is famous for The Heidelberg Castle. Brescia is well known for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Heidelberg different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heidelberg
Brescia

Brescia 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 Brescia. 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Heidelberg
Brescia

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Heidelberg and Brescia can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Heidelberg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brescia makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Heidelberg or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg
Brescia

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

Heidelberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg
Brescia

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

The old town of Heidelberg is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Brescia?

Heidelberg
Brescia

Brescia is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Is Heidelberg or Brescia Better for Families?

Heidelberg
Brescia

Heidelberg is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Heidelberg. 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.

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 Heidelberg or Brescia Better for Couples?

Heidelberg
Brescia

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

Couples visit Heidelberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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 Heidelberg or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg
Brescia

Heidelberg is well known for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known 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.

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 Heidelberg or Brescia Better for Students?

Heidelberg
Brescia

For students, both Heidelberg and Brescia are notable places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Heidelberg. 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.

Brescia is a good town to visit for students. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

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

Heidelberg
Brescia

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg can move around easily with public transportation. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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 Heidelberg or Brescia a more walkable city?

Heidelberg
Brescia

Heidelberg is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Brescia?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Heidelberg or Brescia?

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 nightlife around the historic city of Brescia, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brescia, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Brescia?

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 nightlife and food around the destination of Brescia, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Heidelberg or Brescia?

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.

Brescia, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Brescia?

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.

Brescia 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia 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 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 Heidelberg and Brescia in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heidelberg 17
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64

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 Heidelberg or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia 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
    Brescia 47

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: $598

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.
    Heidelberg 11
    Brescia 31

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: $3.21
  • 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: $6.41
  • Pure experience: Original Black Forest farmer smoke tour: $6.54
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Heidelberg Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.95
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.54
  • Uncover A Self-Guided Audio Tour Through Time: $11
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11

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
    Heidelberg 17
    Brescia 23

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 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 comparing the travel costs between Heidelberg and Brescia, we can see that Brescia 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 Brescia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Brescia. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Brescia for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Heidelberg is cooler than Brescia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heidelberg in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Brescia averages at about 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 Heidelberg this time of the year. In the summer, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Brescia. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Brescia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heidelberg is generally cooler than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 12°C (54°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during autumn. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Brescia. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Heidelberg during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brescia in the winter. The weather in Heidelberg can be very cold. Heidelberg is much warmer than Brescia in the winter. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in January than Brescia. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Brescia. The natural beauty are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Brescia for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heidelberg is cooler than Brescia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heidelberg in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Brescia averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during spring. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Brescia. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Heidelberg

Heidelberg Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)