A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Bremen for Old Town, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Lucerne or Bremen?

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 Lucerne and Bremen. 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a active, cultural, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bremen

Bremen is a lively, historic, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Bremen: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Lucerne or Bremen?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Bremen. While Bremen is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is very popular for its big city activities, while Bremen attracts visitors for its historical sights. Lucerne is more touristy than Bremen and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge. Bremen is famous for its beautiful historic center and its role as a cultural hub in Germany.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Bremen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lucerne or Bremen?

Lucerne
Bremen

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Bremen and Lucerne.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Bremen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's landmarks are located around the famous Marktplatz. You can tour the Bremen Town Hall or wander around the Medieval Schnoor Quarter. Also make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Peter.


Is the Food Better in Lucerne or Bremen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lucerne
Bremen

Both Lucerne and Bremen offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Lucerne is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Bremen offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food is hearty and filling with many meat heavy dishes. Vegetarians may struggle to find local options. Traditional regional dishes include Kohl und Pinkel (kale and sausage), Labskaus (meat and stew), and fried smelt.

Is Lucerne or Bremen Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne
Bremen

The vibe at night is high quality in both Lucerne and Bremen.

Many people head to Lucerne for the nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Bremen has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a variety of evening activities including cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and fine dining restaurants. Head to the Viertel District for some of the most lively clubs.

Is Lucerne or Bremen Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne
Bremen

Bremen is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Bremen has a world-famous historical area. The old town is beautiful with its charming streets and beautiful buildings. There's a main market square which is filled with many landmarks and tourist sights.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.


Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Bremen?

Lucerne
Bremen

If you're looking to go shopping, Lucerne and Bremen both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Bremen is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city offers a mix of historic shopping areas and large shopping malls. Some of the biggest shopping malls include Karstadt Bremen, Lloyd Passage, and Weserpark.

Is Lucerne or Bremen Better for Families?

Lucerne
Bremen

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bremen. Kids will appreciate a Sunday visit to the Bremen Town Musicians play which performs popular fairy tales. If the season isn't right, there are many other kid-friendly activities around town including Bürgerpark, the puppet theater, or visiting the beach at Café Sand. Popular museums in town for kids include Universum and Bremer Geschichtenhaus.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Lucerne or Bremen Better for Couples?

Lucerne
Bremen

Lucerne is notable for couples. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Bremen is a nice destination for couples. From its beautiful old town to its many great restaurants and shopping streets, couples will enjoy a romantic trip away in this beautiful city.


Is Lucerne or Bremen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lucerne
Bremen

Bremen is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bremen. Backpackers love the old town and lively atmosphere. There are enough tourists around that you'll find a decent social scene and the atmosphere makes for a great visit.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Bremen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lucerne
Bremen

Bremen is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bremen. The city has both trams and buses that offer easy accessibility to most of the tourist areas.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Lucerne or Bremen a more walkable city?

Lucerne
Bremen

Bremen is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Bremen is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Europe.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.


For even more information, also check out Is Lucerne Worth Visiting? and Is Bremen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bremen or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Bremen?

It's fun to spend time in either Lucerne or Bremen. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bremen due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 2-4 days is enough time in Bremen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bremen than Lucerne 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 Bremen.


  • How many days in Lucerne or Bremen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lucerne 1-3 
    Bremen 2-4

One day in Lucerne or Bremen?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bremen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Lucerne or Bremen?

Lucerne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Bremen, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bremen has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Bremen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bremen is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.


A week in Lucerne or Bremen?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Lucerne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bremen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bremen. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Music Tours in Germany, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bremen or Lucerne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lucerne is $214, while the average daily cost in Bremen is $157. 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 Lucerne and Bremen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lucerne $137
    Bremen $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lucerne $274
    Bremen $162
Compare Hotels in Lucerne and Bremen

Looking for a hotel in Lucerne or Bremen? 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 Lucerne


Hotels in Bremen


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: Lucerne Hotel Prices and Bremen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lucerne $13
    Bremen $48

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

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

  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bremen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bremen:

  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg With a 2 Hour Stop: $233
  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $175
  • Private Transfer From Bremen City to Hanover City: $94
  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM): $65
  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Cruise Port to Hamburg Hotels: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Lucerne or Bremen?

Prices for flights to both Bremen and Lucerne 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
    Lucerne $62
    Bremen $39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

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

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Typical Food Prices in Bremen

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bremen are as follows:


  • Croissant & Cappacino
    $4.18
  • Fish and Chips
    $3.43
  • Pizza and Cola
    $7.50
  • Chinese Food Lunch
    $8.57
  • Vietnamese Soup
    $5.36
  • Sandwich and Coffee
    $8.57
  • Pastry and Coffee
    $4.29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lucerne $34
    Bremen $37
Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    $34
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    $35

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Revealing Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Smartphone walking tour - cool Lucerne old town: $5.47
  • Walking Tour - Around the Old Town Lucerne: $5.60
  • The Lives and Legends of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Lucerne Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Revealing Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Porrentruy Secret Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience: $20
  • Guided Walking Tour with an Official Guide: $27

Tours and Activities in Bremen

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

  • Bremen : Private Walking Tour With A Tour Guide ( Private Tour ) : $51
  • Bremen Christmas Market Tour With A Professional Guide: $196
  • Bremen City Exploration Private Game and Tour on your Phone: $7.62
  • Bremen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Bremen Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $221
  • Bremen Schnoor Area Tour: $24
  • Bremen Schwachhausen: Crime Mystery Tour: $35
  • Bremen Tour: Full-Day Canoe Rental on the Wümme River: $48
  • Übersee Museum Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Bremen's Underground Guided Tour: $17
  • City Sightseeing Bus Tour: $27
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $7.43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lucerne $22
    Bremen $37

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

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

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273

Sample the Local Flavors in Bremen

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

  • 3-Hour Beck's Brewery Tour: $22


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lucerne and Bremen, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Bremen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bremen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bremen 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne than you might in Bremen.

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


Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Bremen?

Bremen has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Bremen, 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 Lucerne or Bremen?

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 Lucerne or Bremen in the Summer?

Both Bremen and Lucerne during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bremen in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Lucerne is a little warmer than Bremen in the summer. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Bremen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Lucerne. In the summer, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Bremen. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 191 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Bremen. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F) 
    Bremen 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Bremen in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Bremen. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bremen for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lucerne is a little warmer than Bremen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lucerne in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Bremen averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Bremen during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 100 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Bremen. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F) 
    Bremen 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Bremen in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Bremen. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bremen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bremen can be very cold. Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In January, Lucerne is generally much warmer than Bremen. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 3°C (37°F), and Bremen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Bremen. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 41 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in January than Bremen. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F) 
    Bremen 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Bremen in the Spring?

Both Bremen and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bremen this time of year.

Lucerne is a little warmer than Bremen in the spring. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Bremen fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Bremen. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F) 
    Bremen 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Bremen and Lucerne

Lucerne Bremen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 1°C (33°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 13°C (55°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)