A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Manchester vs. Bamberg for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Manchester or Bamberg?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Manchester and Bamberg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a dynamic, diverse, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Bamberg

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

Manchester and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • 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 Manchester or Bamberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Manchester than Bamberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Manchester is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bamberg is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Manchester and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Manchester is popular for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club. It is also home to The National Football Museum.

How is Manchester different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Manchester
Bamberg

Manchester is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Manchester can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Manchester or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Manchester
Bamberg

Manchester is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Manchester makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Manchester or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Manchester
Bamberg

Manchester is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Manchester offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

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 Manchester or Bamberg Better for Music?

Manchester
Bamberg

Manchester is a well-known place for live music. However, Bamberg is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Manchester is very popular with diverse venues. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Bamberg is not a live music destination.


Is Manchester or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Manchester
Bamberg

Bamberg is very popular for its historic old town. However, Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Bamberg has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Bamberg?

Manchester
Bamberg

Manchester is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Manchester is an extremely popular place for shoppers. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bamberg. 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 Manchester or Bamberg Better for Families?

Manchester
Bamberg

Manchester is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Manchester is a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

Bamberg is a family-friendly city. 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 Manchester or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Manchester
Bamberg

Bamberg is very popular for romance. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Bamberg has plenty to offer. 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.

Manchester is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Is Manchester or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Manchester
Bamberg

For backpackers, both Manchester and Bamberg are good places to visit.

Manchester is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Manchester or Bamberg Better for Students?

Manchester
Bamberg

Manchester is a well-known place for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Manchester is a great city to visit as a student. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Bamberg is not popular with students.


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

Manchester
Bamberg

Manchester is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Manchester. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Bamberg has some public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

Is Manchester or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Manchester
Bamberg

Bamberg is very popular for its walkability. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Bamberg is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Manchester and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Manchester than in Bamberg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Manchester, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Manchester than Bamberg 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 Manchester.


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

One day in Manchester or Bamberg?

Because Manchester is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and food around the storybook town of Bamberg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bamberg, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Manchester or Bamberg?

Because Manchester is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Manchester has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Bamberg, 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.

Five days in Manchester or Bamberg?

Manchester 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.

Bamberg, 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.

A week in Manchester or Bamberg?

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

Bamberg 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Manchester?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Manchester is £184, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is £109. 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 Manchester and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Manchester £71
    Bamberg £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Manchester £142
    Bamberg £128
Compare Hotels in Manchester and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Manchester 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 Manchester


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: Manchester Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Manchester £19
    Bamberg £12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Manchester

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Manchester are as follows:


  • Rail to Airport
    £11
  • Parking in Manchester
    £3.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Manchester

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

  • 1-Wsy Airport Bus Transfer to/from Leeds: $6.86
  • Southampton Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Manchester: $8.12
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from London: $8.12
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Bucklow Hill: $50
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Adlington (Macclesfield): $52
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Stockport: $52
  • Private Transfer from Eccles to Manchester Airport (MAN): $56
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Eccles: $56
  • Private Transfer from Salford to Manchester Airport (MAN): $58
  • Private Transfer from Salford Quays to Manchester Airport (MAN): $58
  • Private Transfer from Trafford Park to Manchester Airport (MAN): $58
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Salford: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Manchester or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Manchester 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
    Manchester £55
    Bamberg £35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Manchester

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Hard Rock Cafe Manchester with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Pistachio LOVERS Italian Dinner Experience: $35
  • Private Italian Dinner with a Romantic Night Experience: $63
  • 2 Hours Sicilian Wine Tasting and Dinner at Manchester: $76
  • Manchester Food Tour with a Local Guide: $87
  • Half-Day Manchester Food Tour with Lunch: $89
  • 3-Hour Guided Manchester Food Tour with Lunch : $95
  • Private Food Tour with Local Guide: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Manchester £30
    Bamberg £14

Tours and Activities in Manchester

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

  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • Manchester City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Manchester’s Rebirth and Renewal: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • England's First Industrial City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Salford Quays Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Canal & River Cruise: $15
  • City River Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Manchester £9.90
    Bamberg £17

Sample the Local Flavors in Manchester

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Manchester:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Four hour walking wine tasting tour of Manchester's best bars: $101

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


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

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


Which is Bigger, Manchester or Bamberg?

Manchester has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Manchester 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 Manchester or Bamberg?

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 Manchester or Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg and Manchester during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Manchester this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences.

Manchester is cooler than Bamberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Bamberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets more rain in July than Bamberg. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Manchester 16°C (62°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Manchester or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Bamberg. Many travelers come to Manchester for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bamberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Manchester is around the same temperature as Bamberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Manchester in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Bamberg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Manchester usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Manchester 11°C (52°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Manchester or Bamberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Bamberg. Many visitors come to Manchester in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Bamberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bamberg can be very cold during winter. Manchester can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Manchester is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 4°C (39°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Manchester often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets more rain in January than Bamberg. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Manchester 4°C (39°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Manchester or Bamberg in the Spring?

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

Manchester is cooler than Bamberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Manchester usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Manchester 8°C (46°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Manchester

Manchester Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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