A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Bamberg for Couples, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a picturesque, stunning, and diverse island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a beautiful, scenic, and storybook town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bamberg. Although Isle of Skye and Bamberg are both popular with visitors, Bamberg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bamberg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Isle of Skye is known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Bamberg is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also home to the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus).

How is Isle of Skye different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Bamberg is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Bamberg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Isle of Skye 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, Isle of Skye makes for a great culinary experience. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Bamberg is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Bamberg Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Bamberg is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Isle of Skye. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Bamberg is not a beach destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Bamberg is terrific for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Bamberg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Bamberg Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Isle of Skye is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Isle of Skye draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Bamberg is a good destination for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Bamberg Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Both Isle of Skye and Bamberg are good family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bamberg. 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 Isle of Skye or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Bamberg is terrific for romance. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Is Isle of Skye or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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


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

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Bamberg is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Bamberg

Bamberg is terrific for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Bamberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isle of Skye and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than in Bamberg. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

Families should spend more time in Bamberg than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Bamberg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.


A weekend in Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer.

Bamberg is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Bamberg is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is £109. 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 Isle of Skye and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Bamberg £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Bamberg £128
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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: Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Bamberg £12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Bamberg £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Bamberg £14

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

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
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Bamberg £17

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 Isle of Skye and Bamberg, we can see that Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Bamberg?

Bamberg has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Bamberg. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Bamberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bamberg. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Bamberg. Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails 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 the autumn, Isle of Skye is cooler than Bamberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Bamberg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Isle of Skye during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of 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 Isle of Skye can be very cold. In January, Isle of Skye is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Isle of Skye. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Bamberg. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Bamberg. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the natural beauty.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Bamberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)