A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Helsinki vs. Bamberg for Couples, Attractions, Families, and Food

Should you visit Helsinki or Bamberg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Bamberg can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a active, nature-focused, and coastal city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a beautiful, scenic, and storybook town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Helsinki and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Helsinki or Bamberg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bamberg than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Bamberg, Bamberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bamberg is very popular for its historical sights, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Helsinki and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also well known for the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Helsinki
Bamberg

Helsinki is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Helsinki can be an interesting and educational experience. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


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

Helsinki
Bamberg

Foodies will find both Helsinki and Bamberg both to be nice destinations.

Helsinki has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bamberg area. 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 Helsinki or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Helsinki
Bamberg

Helsinki is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Helsinki. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

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 Helsinki or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Helsinki
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Bamberg is revered around the world. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Bamberg?

Helsinki
Bamberg

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

Helsinki is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Helsinki or Bamberg Better for Families?

Helsinki
Bamberg

Helsinki is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Helsinki is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

Bamberg is a family-friendly city. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Helsinki or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Helsinki
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Bamberg is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.


Is Helsinki or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki
Bamberg

Helsinki and Bamberg are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Helsinki is a good city to visit for backpackers. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

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

Is Helsinki or Bamberg Better for Students?

Helsinki
Bamberg

Helsinki is a well-known place for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Helsinki is a great city to visit as a student. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Helsinki
Bamberg

Helsinki 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 Helsinki. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

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


Is Helsinki or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Helsinki
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Helsinki and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Helsinki than in Bamberg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

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


  • How many days in Helsinki or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Helsinki 2-4 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Helsinki or Bamberg?

In Helsinki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Bamberg offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Bamberg?

In Helsinki, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Helsinki has to offer.

Bamberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bamberg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Helsinki or Bamberg?

Helsinki is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bamberg is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Helsinki. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Bamberg is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Helsinki?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Helsinki is €139, 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 Helsinki and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Helsinki 73
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Helsinki 146
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Helsinki and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Helsinki 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 Helsinki


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: Helsinki Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Helsinki 22
    Bamberg 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Helsinki

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

  • Private Transfer from Helsinki Airport (HEL) to Helsinki Port : $40
  • Vantaa Airport (HEL) to Helsinki hotels-Arrival Private Transfer : $41
  • Helsinki City hotels to Helsinki Airport (HEL) Departure Transfer: $41
  • Helsinki West Harbour Terminal to Helsinki hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63
  • Departure Private Transfer Helsinki City to Helsinki Airport HEL by business car: $64
  • Private Transfer in Helsinki: $76
  • Helsinki Airport (HEL) to Helsinki West Terminal - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • Helsinki Private Airport & City Transfer: $82
  • Private Transfer: Helsinki City to Cruise Port in Luxury Van: $93
  • Departure Transfer: Helsinki to Airport HEL in Business Car: $97
  • Private Transfer: Airport HEL to Helsinki in Business Car: $97
  • Helsinki Private Transfer from Helsinki city centre to Helsinki airport: $98

Is it cheaper to fly into Helsinki or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Helsinki 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
    Helsinki 34
    Bamberg 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Helsinki

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

  • FOOD Tour with Rooftop Bar Visit in Helsinki: $106
  • FOOD Tour with Roof Top Bar in Helsinki: $108
  • Helsinki Food Tour Including Tastings: $164

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Helsinki 27
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Helsinki

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

  • Tip-Based City Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Tip-based Free Walking Tour Helsinki - RED UMBRELLA TOURS: $5.13
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Helsinki Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $6.95
  • Temppeliaukio Church Entrance Ticket: $8.56
  • From Round-Trip Ferry Ticket to Suomenlinna: $8.64
  • Suomenlinna: Museum Ticket: $9.62
  • Historical Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • 4D Flying Cinema Tour of Helsinki Tickets: $14
  • Self-Guided City Highlights Audio Tour: $14

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): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 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
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Helsinki 16
    Bamberg 19

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


Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Bamberg?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Bamberg. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Helsinki is generally cooler than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bamberg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Helsinki this time of the year. In the summer, Helsinki often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bamberg. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Helsinki 17°C (62°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Helsinki or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

Helsinki is much colder than Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Helsinki 6°C (42°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Helsinki or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Helsinki during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bamberg. It's quite cold in Helsinki in the winter. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Bamberg. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Helsinki -6°C (21°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Helsinki or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Bamberg. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the spring for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Helsinki usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Bamberg. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Helsinki 3°C (37°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Helsinki

Helsinki Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -6°C (21°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb -7°C (20°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar -3°C (27°F) 34 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 11°C (51°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 6°C (42°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec -4°C (26°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)