A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Kiel vs. Bamberg for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Kiel or Bamberg?

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

Should I visit Kiel or Bamberg? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kiel

Kiel is a waterfront, maritime, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a scenic, storybook, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Kiel and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • 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 Kiel or Bamberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kiel than Bamberg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kiel is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Bamberg attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Kiel and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Kiel is famous for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival. It is also well known for The Kiel Castle.

How is Kiel different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kiel
Bamberg

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Kiel and Bamberg.

Kiel offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bamberg. 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 Kiel or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kiel
Bamberg

Both Kiel and Bamberg offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Kiel. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Bamberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Kiel or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Kiel
Bamberg

Kiel 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 Kiel. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

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 Kiel or Bamberg Better for Beaches?

Kiel
Bamberg

Kiel is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Bamberg is not a beach destination.

Kiel has a beach worth visiting. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Bamberg is not a beach destination.


Is Kiel or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Kiel
Bamberg

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Kiel does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Bamberg can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kiel or Bamberg?

Kiel
Bamberg

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bamberg and Kiel.

Kiel offers some nice shopping areas. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Bamberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Kiel or Bamberg Better for Families?

Kiel
Bamberg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kiel or Bamberg.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kiel. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

Bamberg offers lots of family activities. 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 Kiel or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Kiel
Bamberg

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Bamberg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Kiel is a good city for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Kiel or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kiel
Bamberg

Bamberg is a popular place for backpackers. However, Kiel is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Kiel or Bamberg Better for Students?

Kiel
Bamberg

Kiel is a nice place to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Kiel is a good city to visit for students. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

Bamberg is not popular with students.


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

Kiel
Bamberg

Bamberg is a popular place for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Bamberg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Kiel or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Kiel
Bamberg

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Bamberg on foot is easy. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

Kiel is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Kiel?

How long in Kiel or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kiel and Bamberg. In our opinion, Bamberg has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bamberg than Kiel. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Bamberg than Kiel. 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 Kiel. 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 Bamberg than Kiel 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 Bamberg.


  • How many days in Kiel or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kiel 1-3 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Kiel or Bamberg?

In Kiel, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Kiel or Bamberg?

In Kiel, 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 Kiel has to offer.

Bamberg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Kiel or Bamberg?

Kiel 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the storybook destination of Bamberg. This town offers something for everyone. 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 Kiel or Bamberg?

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

The scenic town of Bamberg offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Kiel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kiel is €138, 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 Kiel and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kiel 67
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kiel 134
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Kiel and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Kiel 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 Kiel


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: Kiel Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kiel 54
    Bamberg 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kiel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kiel:

  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Port to Hamburg Airport: $79
  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg city: $79
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM) - Departure Private Transfer: $119
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $119
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $238
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg: $655

Is it cheaper to fly into Kiel or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Kiel 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
    Kiel 39
    Bamberg 41

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kiel 19
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Kiel

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

  • Lübeck Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Laboe Naval Memorial: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Kiel's Historical Port: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore this Historic Port: $12
  • SEA LIFE Timmendorfer Strand Admission Ticket: $17
  • Lübeck stories - an exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • Kiel Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $75
  • City Highlights Express Walking Tour with a Local: $93
  • Private Walking Tour of Kiel: $98
  • Private Sightseeing Tour 1,5 hours Lindau Island Lake Constance: $141

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bamberg are as follows:

  • Historical Museum Entrance Ticket: $4.34
  • Fake Food in the old town hall Entry Tickets: $6.52
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.69
  • Bayreuth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided tour - World Heritage Fascination: $14
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $17
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $20
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kiel 12
    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


When comparing the travel costs between Kiel and Bamberg, we can see that Kiel 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 Kiel Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kiel or Bamberg?

Kiel has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Kiel 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 Kiel or Bamberg?

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 Kiel or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kiel and Bamberg. Many travelers come to Kiel for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bamberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kiel is generally cooler than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Kiel average around 16°C (61°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In Kiel, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kiel usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during summer. Kiel gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kiel usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Kiel gets 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kiel 16°C (61°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Kiel or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kiel as well as Bamberg. Many visitors come to Kiel in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Kiel is around the same temperature as Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kiel averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Kiel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Kiel gets 102 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets more rain in October than Bamberg. Kiel gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kiel 10°C (50°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Kiel or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Kiel are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kiel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bamberg can be very cold. Kiel can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Kiel is around the same temperature as Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kiel in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

Kiel usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Kiel gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kiel usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Kiel gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kiel 0°C (33°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Kiel or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Kiel during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Kiel because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

In April, Kiel is generally cooler than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Kiel average around 7°C (44°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Kiel often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Kiel gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bamberg. Kiel gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kiel 7°C (44°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Kiel

Kiel Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 3°C (38°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 88 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)