A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Munich vs. Bamberg for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Munich or Bamberg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich or Bamberg, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Munich

Munich is a multicultural, economically thriving, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a scenic, storybook, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Munich and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Munich or Bamberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Munich than Bamberg. Munich is bigger than Bamberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Munich is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bamberg is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Munich is well known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. Also, Munich is famous for The Nymphenburg Palace. Bamberg is well known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

How is Munich different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Munich
Bamberg

Munich 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 Munich can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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 Munich or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Munich
Bamberg

Munich 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, Munich makes for a great culinary experience. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Munich
Bamberg

Munich is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Munich has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich or Bamberg Better for Music?

Munich
Bamberg

Munich is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Bamberg is not a live music destination.

Munich is a world class music destination. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Bamberg is not a live music destination.


Is Munich or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Munich
Bamberg

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Munich 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Bamberg?

Munich
Bamberg

Munich is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Munich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich or Bamberg Better for Families?

Munich
Bamberg

Munich 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.

Munich is a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

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 Munich or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Munich
Bamberg

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Bamberg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Munich or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich
Bamberg

Munich is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Munich is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Bamberg is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Munich or Bamberg Better for Students?

Munich
Bamberg

Munich is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Munich is a great destination for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Bamberg is not popular with students.


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

Munich
Bamberg

Munich is an amazing city to visit 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.

Public transit in Munich is top-notch. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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

Is Munich or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Munich
Bamberg

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

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

Munich is very walkable. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Munich?

How long in Munich or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Munich and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than in Bamberg. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Munich, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich 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 Munich.


  • How many days in Munich or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Munich 2-5 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Munich or Bamberg?

Because Munich 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.

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


A weekend in Munich or Bamberg?

Because Munich 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 Munich has to offer.

Bamberg 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.

Five days in Munich or Bamberg?

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. 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.

A week in Munich or Bamberg?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the storybook destination of Bamberg. This town 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Germany, and The Best Luxury Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Munich?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Munich is €148, 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 Munich and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Munich 89
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Munich 178
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Munich and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Munich 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 Munich


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: Munich Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Munich 19
    Bamberg 14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Airport Transfer by Bus: $12
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Munich Airport to Munich Central Station: $14
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Erding Thermal - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Arrival Transfer from Munich Train Station to Munich by Sedan: $60
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Munich - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Arrival Transfer: $71
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Munich Airport (MUC)- Munich City: $74
  • Private Departure Transfer from Munich to Munich Airport by Sedan: $91
  • Private Transfer from Munich Airport to Munich City by Luxury Van: $101
  • Private Transfer from Munich Airport to Munich City by Luxury Car: $111
  • Private Transfer: Munich International Airport(MUC) to Munich: $116
  • Munich Airport(MUC) to Oberstdorf/Alpsee Grünten-Arrival Transfer: $118

Is it cheaper to fly into Munich or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Munich 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
    Munich 27
    Bamberg 41
Typical Food Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Munich:


  • Bratwurst
    5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Munich.

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Munich Food Tour with Beer Tasting: $47
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $54
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $140
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Munich 29
    Bamberg 17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    24

Tours and Activities in Munich

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Munich Old Town": $3.18
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.19
  • Victuals Market Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.72
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.26
  • Guided tour through the Sudeten German Museum: $5.32
  • From Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $5.32
  • Escape Game and Tour: $5.32
  • Munich through the Centuries: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-guided Walking Tour to River Isar Landmarks: $6.28
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.33
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.92
  • City Center Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour: $7.44

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.51
  • 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: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $19
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $21
  • Food and Beer Guided Walking Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Munich 37
    Bamberg 19
Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

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

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Beer and Brewery Tour in Munich: $47
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $140
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $287
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $293
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $399
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $399

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 Munich and Bamberg, we can see that Munich 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 Munich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Munich 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 Munich Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Munich or Bamberg?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Munich 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 Munich 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 Munich or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Bamberg. The summer months attract visitors to Munich because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

In the summer, Munich is around the same temperature as Bamberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Munich in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Bamberg averages at about 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In Munich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Munich usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during summer. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Munich usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Munich 20°C (68°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Munich or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Munich as well as Bamberg. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Munich this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Munich is generally around the same temperature as Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 11°C (52°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Munich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bamberg. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Munich or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Munich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bamberg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Munich. Munich is much colder than Bamberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Munich averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Munich usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Munich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Munich -1°C (31°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Munich or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Munich during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Munich in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Munich is a little warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Munich in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Bamberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Munich often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bamberg. Munich gets 48 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
    Munich 11°C (53°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Munich

Munich Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)