A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mainz vs. Strasbourg for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Mainz or Strasbourg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Mainz and Strasbourg can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Mainz

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

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a historic, charming, and picturesque city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Mainz and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mainz or Strasbourg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Strasbourg than Mainz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mainz is popular for its quaint old town, Roman heritage, and beautiful town squares. Strasbourg is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. It is also home to The Strasbourg Cathedral.

How is Mainz different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mainz or Strasbourg?

Strasbourg is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Strasbourg. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

Mainz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's an old university town with a number of historical sights. Check out the Church of St. Stephan, Mainz Cathedral, the Gutenberg Museum, and the Museum of Ancient Seafaring.

Is the Food Better in Mainz or Strasbourg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Mainz and Strasbourg.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Mainz. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve local food. There are also wine taverns where you can sample the local wines and dine of regional specialties.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Mainz or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Strasbourg is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Mainz. It's a sleepy little town, so even locals often head to bigger cities for better nightlife.

Is Mainz or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg is terrific for its historic old town. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

Strasbourg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Mainz. Filled with beautiful squares and cobblestone streets, this is a nice old town in a pleasant city.

Is the Shopping Better in Mainz or Strasbourg?

Strasbourg is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Mainz offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the boulevard of Am Brand near the cathedral for some of the town's best shopping. There are shops that line the street and it's a nice area to walk around.

Is Mainz or Strasbourg Better for Families?

Strasbourg is a city with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly city. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Mainz doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Kids will enjoy the Gutenburg Museum and the outdoor spaces where they can run around. There's also a nice old town that everyone will have fun exploring.

Is Mainz or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Both Mainz and Strasbourg are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Mainz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Located on the Rhine River, this scenic setting is popular for river cruises. The town is nice to explore on its own, or you can hop around and take in several of the German river towns. You can also sit at outdoor cafes and sip local wine.

Couples visit Strasbourg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Mainz or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mainz and Strasbourg are both good destinations for backpackers.

Mainz is a good town to visit for backpackers. The town is popular with river cruises but you'll also find a hostel or two where budget travelers can save some money and meet other backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Mainz or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Mainz is a great town for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Mainz is very popular with students. It's a university town with a pleasant atmosphere and a beautiful setting.

Strasbourg is a good town to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Is Mainz or Strasbourg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find superb public transit in both Mainz and Strasbourg.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Mainz. There are regional trains that make it easy to use Mainz as a base to explore the area, or you could visit Mainz as a day trip from another nearby town.

Public transit in Strasbourg can get you to some places easily. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

Is Mainz or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Mainz is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Mainz is a very easy town to get around on foot. The town is easily explored on foot.

Strasbourg is a very walkable town. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Mainz Worth Visiting? and Is Strasbourg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Mainz?

How long in Mainz or Strasbourg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mainz and Strasbourg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mainz than in Strasbourg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Mainz, and 2-3 days is enough time in Strasbourg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Strasbourg than Mainz 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 Strasbourg.

One day in Mainz or Strasbourg?

With museums and food around the quaint town of Mainz, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Strasbourg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Mainz or Strasbourg?

With food and shopping around the destination of Mainz, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Mainz or Strasbourg?

Mainz, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Strasbourg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Mainz or Strasbourg?

Mainz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the impressive destination of Strasbourg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Mainz or Strasbourg?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Mainz. When comparing the sizes of Mainz and Strasbourg, 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 Mainz or Strasbourg?

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 Mainz or Strasbourg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Mainz and Strasbourg. Many visitors come to Mainz in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Mainz is around the same temperature as Strasbourg in the summer. The daily temperature in Mainz averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Strasbourg this time of the year. In Mainz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mainz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during summer. Mainz gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Mainz usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Mainz gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mainz or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Mainz as well as Strasbourg. Most visitors come to Mainz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Mainz is around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mainz in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Mainz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg. Mainz gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Mainz usually gets more rain in October than Strasbourg. Mainz gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mainz or Strasbourg in the Winter?

Both Strasbourg and Mainz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Mainz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Strasbourg in the winter. The weather in Mainz can be very cold. In January, Mainz is generally cooler than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Mainz average around 2°C (35°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Mainz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during winter. Mainz gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mainz usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Mainz gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mainz or Strasbourg in the Spring?

Both Strasbourg and Mainz during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Mainz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the natural beauty.

Mainz is around the same temperature as Strasbourg in the spring. The daily temperature in Mainz averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Mainz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg. Mainz gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Mainz usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Strasbourg. Mainz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Mainz