A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kitzbuhel vs. Heidelberg for Old Town, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

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

Should I visit Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg? 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.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a breathtaking, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled ski resort. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a character-filled, historic, and quaint town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kitzbuhel. Although Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg are both popular with visitors, Kitzbuhel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kitzbuhel is more popular for its skiing, museums, hiking, and small town charm, while Heidelberg is known for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Kitzbuhel is popular for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. It is also home to The Kitzbüheler Horn. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

How is Kitzbuhel different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

Kitzbuhel is an amazing ski resort to visit for skiing. However, Heidelberg is not a skiing destination.

Kitzbuhel is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Heidelberg is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

Kitzbuhel is adequate for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Kitzbuhel specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

Dining out at restaurants in both Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg can be an enjoyable experience.

Kitzbuhel has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

Dining out in Heidelberg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

The vibe at night is superb in both Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg.

Many people head to Kitzbuhel for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

Heidelberg has plenty to do after the sun goes down. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.


Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Heidelberg offers plenty to see. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

Kitzbuhel is an amazing ski resort to visit for hiking. However, Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Kitzbuhel is well-known for its hiking and trekking. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

If you're looking to go shopping, Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kitzbuhel. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Many visitors go to Heidelberg to go shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.


Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kitzbuhel. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

With fun activities for couples, both Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg make for a superb place to visit.

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

For backpackers, both Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg are superb places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Kitzbuhel. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

Heidelberg is a very popular ski resort for backpackers and budget travelers. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.


Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its public transit.

Heidelberg has some very good public transit options. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Kitzbuhel has a few public transit options. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

Is Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel
Heidelberg

Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg are superb when it comes to walkability.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable ski resort. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Kitzbuhel Worth Visiting? and Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Kitzbuhel?

How long in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Heidelberg. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Kitzbuhel, and 1-3 days is enough time in Heidelberg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Kitzbuhel than Heidelberg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kitzbuhel that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kitzbuhel 4-7 
    Heidelberg 1-3

One day in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Kitzbuhel might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint town of Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heidelberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Even though Kitzbuhel is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Heidelberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Kitzbuhel, a popular ski resort, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this ski resort. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively town of Heidelberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Kitzbuhel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Heidelberg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Austria, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Heidelberg or Kitzbuhel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kitzbuhel is €179, while the average daily cost in Heidelberg is €142. 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 Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kitzbuhel 89
    Heidelberg 93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kitzbuhel 178
    Heidelberg 186
Compare Hotels in Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg

Looking for a hotel in Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg? 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 Kitzbuhel


Hotels in Heidelberg


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: Kitzbuhel Hotel Prices and Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 69
    Heidelberg 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23

Is it cheaper to fly into Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Prices for flights to both Heidelberg and Kitzbuhel 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
    Kitzbuhel 48
    Heidelberg 37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 34
    Heidelberg 11

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • 2 1/2h Guided Bicycle Tour Discover Heidelberg: $46
  • Alternative Heidelberg Tour.: $71
  • Amazing Schwetzingen Garden Tour: $238
  • Beer and Old Town Tour: $98
  • Bicycle Tour from Heidelberg to quaint Ladenburg.: $120
  • Culinary city tour in Heidelberg with delicious samples: $43
  • E.Bike Tours around Heidelberg: $153
  • Evening Heidelberg tour with historical night watchman: $17
  • Experience the Local Food around Mannheim: $64
  • Fascinating Heidelberg Sightseeing Walking Tour: $217
  • Food & Fables Tour of Heidelberg : $131
  • Guided Tour of Student Rabble, Whore Pack and the French War: $373

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kitzbuhel 11
    Heidelberg 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg, we can see that Kitzbuhel is more expensive. And not only is Heidelberg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Heidelberg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Heidelberg and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Kitzbuhel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kitzbuhel than you might in Heidelberg.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kitzbuhel Expensive? and Is Heidelberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kitzbuhel or Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Kitzbuhel and Heidelberg, 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.