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

Should you visit Helsinki or Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg 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 waterfront, active, and nature-focused city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a historic, charming, and picturesque city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Helsinki and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Helsinki or Strasbourg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Strasbourg than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Strasbourg, Strasbourg has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Strasbourg is very popular for its food and historical sights, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Strasbourg is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. It is also well known for The Strasbourg Cathedral. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Helsinki
Strasbourg

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Strasbourg.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Helsinki. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Strasbourg. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.


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

Helsinki
Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Strasbourg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. 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.

Is Helsinki or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Helsinki
Strasbourg

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Helsinki and Strasbourg.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Strasbourg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Helsinki or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Helsinki
Strasbourg

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

The historic old town of Strasbourg is revered around the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Strasbourg?

Helsinki
Strasbourg

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Helsinki and Strasbourg.

Helsinki is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Helsinki or Strasbourg Better for Families?

Helsinki
Strasbourg

Helsinki is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Helsinki is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Helsinki or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Helsinki
Strasbourg

Both Helsinki and Strasbourg are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Strasbourg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.


Is Helsinki or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki
Strasbourg

Helsinki and Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Helsinki or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Helsinki
Strasbourg

Helsinki is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Helsinki is very popular with students. 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.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Helsinki
Strasbourg

Visitors will find superb public transit in both Helsinki and Strasbourg.

The public transit in Helsinki can get you around easily. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Strasbourg offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.


Is Helsinki or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Helsinki
Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Strasbourg is a very walkable city. One of the best ways to explore the city is 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 Strasbourg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Strasbourg?

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

Families should spend more time in Helsinki than Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg than Helsinki. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Strasbourg that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Strasbourg than Helsinki 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 Strasbourg.


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

One day in Helsinki or Strasbourg?

With museums and nightlife around the environmentally conscious city of Helsinki, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Strasbourg offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Strasbourg?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Helsinki, 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.

Strasbourg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city 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 Strasbourg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Helsinki or Strasbourg?

Helsinki, 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.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

Helsinki 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.

Strasbourg 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 city 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg is €138. 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 Strasbourg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Helsinki 73
    Strasbourg 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Helsinki 146
    Strasbourg 134
Compare Hotels in Helsinki and Strasbourg

Looking for a hotel in Helsinki or Strasbourg? 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 Strasbourg


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 Strasbourg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Helsinki 22
    Strasbourg 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Helsinki

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

  • Private City Highlights Tour with Transfer: $738
  • Guided Tallinn Day Tour from Helsinki / Include hotel transfers: $218
  • Helsinki Private Transfer: $158
  • VIP Airport transfers by new cars in Helsinki: $152
  • VIP Airport transfers in Helsinki region: $152
  • PRIVATE Helsinki VIP Transfer: $147
  • VIP Transfer HELSINKI: $147
  • Helsinki Airport (HEL): One-Way Transfer to/from Helsinki: $144
  • Helsinki Stopover Tour with Round-Trip Airport Transfers: $139
  • VIP Transfer Helsinki-Vantaa Airport to city in a Porsche Taycan: $136
  • Helsinki Airport VIP Transfers: Exclusive Comfort&Efficiency: $134
  • Helsinki Airport (HEL): Transfer to Helsinki Cruise Terminal: $129

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Strasbourg

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

  • Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: $58
  • Private transfer Strasbourg Airport: $59
  • Private Transfer from Strasbourg Train Station to Hotel: $64
  • Private Transfer Strasbourg to Europa Park: $251
  • Door-to-Door private transfer and driver from Strasbourg to Basel: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Helsinki or Strasbourg?

Prices for flights to both Strasbourg 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
    Strasbourg 44

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Strasbourg

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

  • Strasbourg Private Food Tour: experience the city like a local!: $93
  • Strasbourg Food Tour : Gourmet private Tour with tastings: $102
  • Strasbourg Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Helsinki 27
    Strasbourg 24

Tours and Activities in Helsinki

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

  • 2-Hours Private Modern Boat Tour in Helsinki Archipelago: $284
  • 3 Hours Helsinki Stopover Tour from Airport: $98
  • 3-Hour Helsinki Private Walking Tour: $235
  • A Finntastic Walking Tour in Helsinki: $26
  • Adventure Day: $44
  • All-in-One Helsinki Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships: $1,043
  • CITY Tour with Food Tasting in Helsinki: $106
  • CITY Tour with Food Tasting in Helsinki: $163
  • Cozy Guided City Tour: Helsinki & Porvoo: $96
  • E-Bike rental / Self-Guided tour to Seurasaari: $52
  • First Time in Helsinki Tour: $332
  • From 3-Day Return Cruise to Stockholm & Breakfast: $139

Tours and Activities in Strasbourg

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

  • 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway: $64
  • Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg: $148
  • Alsace Wine Odyssey: Full-Day Private Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Alsace Wine Route Small Group Half-Day Tour with Tasting from Strasbourg: $107
  • Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour from Strasbourg: $175
  • Alsatian brunch with immersive cellar tour: $49
  • Alsatian tour, tasting and meal - 100% immersive experience: $60
  • Christmas Joy in Strasbourg Walking Tour: $641
  • Culinary city tour in Strasbourg with tastings: $104
  • Gems of Alsace: Private Full-Day Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Gourmet Bike Tour with a Locals in Strasbourg: $71
  • Guided Tours of Strasbourg Cathedral: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Helsinki 16
    Strasbourg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Strasbourg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Strasbourg:

  • Aperitif at the winemaker with cellar visit and wine tasting in Alsace: $11
  • Wine tasting and immersive cellar tour: $20
  • Wine tour, tasting and picnic basket: $38
  • From Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip: $118
  • Medieval Villages and Wine Tasting from Strasbourg: $120
  • Strasbourg : Wine Tour by bike with a local: $150
  • Wine Tasting Private Tour: $545


When comparing the travel costs between Helsinki and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Strasbourg?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Helsinki or Strasbourg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Strasbourg. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Helsinki is generally cooler than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Strasbourg this time of the year. In Helsinki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Strasbourg. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Helsinki 17°C (62°F) 
    Strasbourg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Helsinki or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Strasbourg. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Helsinki is much colder than Strasbourg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Strasbourg. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in October than Strasbourg. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Helsinki 6°C (42°F) 
    Strasbourg 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Helsinki or Strasbourg in the Winter?

Both Strasbourg and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Strasbourg in the winter. The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Strasbourg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 2°C (35°F).

Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Helsinki -6°C (21°F) 
    Strasbourg 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Helsinki or Strasbourg in the Spring?

Both Strasbourg and Helsinki during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the spring. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Helsinki often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in April than Strasbourg. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Helsinki 3°C (37°F) 
    Strasbourg 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Helsinki

Helsinki Strasbourg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -6°C (21°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Feb -7°C (20°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Mar -3°C (27°F) 34 mm (1.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 11°C (51°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 6°C (42°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -4°C (26°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)