A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Dresden for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a dramatic, historic, and spiritual destination. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Dresden

Dresden is a cultural, park-filled, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dresden. Although Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden are both popular with visitors, Dresden has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dresden is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Kalampaka (Meteora) is known for its museums and impressive beauty. Kalampaka (Meteora) is popular for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Dresden is popular for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). It is also home to Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dresden and Kalampaka (Meteora). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Kalampaka (Meteora) is an amazing destination to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Kalampaka (Meteora) on the map. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.


Is the Food Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden.

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dresden area. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Dresden is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Dresden has a large number of nightlife venues. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Dresden is a very popular place for its old town. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Dresden is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden both good destinations for a couple.

Kalampaka (Meteora) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Dresden is a good destination for couples to visit. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Dresden is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Dresden. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Dresden is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Dresden has some public transit options. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Dresden

Dresden is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Dresden is a very walkable city. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.


For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Dresden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden. In our opinion, Dresden has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dresden than Kalampaka (Meteora). In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kalampaka (Meteora), and 1-3 days is enough time in Dresden.

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

Couples should spend more time in Dresden than Kalampaka (Meteora). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dresden that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dresden than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Dresden.


  • How many days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3 
    Dresden 1-3

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

In Kalampaka (Meteora), you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Dresden, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

In Kalampaka (Meteora), you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kalampaka (Meteora) has to offer.

Many people visit Dresden for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dresden, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

The destination of Dresden offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kalampaka (Meteora). Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Kalampaka (Meteora). One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dresden. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dresden or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, while the average daily cost in Dresden is €135. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Dresden 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Dresden 122
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden? 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


Hotels in Dresden


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: Dresden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Dresden 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $43
  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $274

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dresden

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dresden:

  • Private Transfer from Dresden to Prague with 2 hours for sightseeing: $158
  • Private Transfer from Dresden City to Leipzig City: $83
  • One-Way Transfer from Dresden Airport (DRS) to Dresden: $146
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - First Class: $136
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - Business Van: $77

Is it cheaper to fly into Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

Prices for flights to both Dresden and Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Dresden 31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dresden

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dresden.

  • Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $51
  • Winterlights Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $59
  • Dinner-Show "INDUSTRIELLE REVOLUTION": $117

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Dresden 9.56

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Varlaam Monastery Greece Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $17
  • Meteora: Self-Guided App-Based Driving Tour: $17
  • Meteora: Hermit Caves Sunset Hiking Experience: $38
  • Sunset Meteora Tour on E-Bike: $40
  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $43
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $44
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $44
  • Midday Meteora Monastery tour from Kalabaka's train station : $44
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Morning Monastery E-bike Tour: $46

Tours and Activities in Dresden

Here are a few actual costs in Dresden for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hour GDR Walking Tour in Dresden: $44
  • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Dresden: $44
  • 2 day ticket Grand City Tour Hop on Hop off 22 stops: $24
  • 3H Private Walking Tour: Dresden city centre and Old Masters Painting Gallery: $300
  • Astonishing Dresden - Guided Walking Tour: $427
  • Bad Schandau Scooter Tour in Saxon, Switzerland: $52
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden - Hiking Tour: $171
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden- Fantasy Tour: $171
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden- Winter Tour: $171
  • Bicycle tour of Dresden: $32
  • Big Sightseeing Tour in Dresden with Liveguide: $21
  • Big city tour hop on hop off 22 stops: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Dresden 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76

Sample the Local Flavors in Dresden

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

  • Dresden Bike Tour with Wine Tasting: $53
  • Radeberger Brewery Tour in German: $57
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401


When comparing the travel costs between Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden, we can see that Dresden 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) Expensive? and Is Dresden Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden, 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden in the Summer?

Both Dresden and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dresden for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kalampaka (Meteora) is a little warmer than Dresden. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Dresden averages at about 20°C (68°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in July than Dresden. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 26°C (78°F) 
    Dresden 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Dresden. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dresden in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally much warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 17°C (62°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dresden. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 17°C (62°F) 
    Dresden 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kalampaka (Meteora) as well as Dresden. Many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Dresden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dresden can be very cold during winter. Kalampaka (Meteora) is much warmer than Dresden in the winter. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in January than Dresden. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 6°C (42°F) 
    Dresden 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Dresden in the Spring?

Both Dresden and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dresden because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Kalampaka (Meteora) is a little warmer than Dresden. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Dresden averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In April, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Dresden. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F) 
    Dresden 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Dresden and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) Dresden
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 1°C (33°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 2°C (35°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)