A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Munich vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Music, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Munich or Barcelona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich or Barcelona, 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a cultural, friendly, and high energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Munich and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Munich or Barcelona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Munich. Barcelona is bigger than Munich, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is more touristy than Munich and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Munich is well known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles.

How is Munich different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Barcelona 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 Barcelona?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Munich or Barcelona.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Munich or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Munich and Barcelona offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Barcelona. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Munich or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Munich and Barcelona.

Munich is a world class party destination. 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.

Barcelona is a must-see party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Is Munich or Barcelona Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Munich or Barcelona.

In Munich you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Barcelona is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Is Munich or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Munich is not a beach destination.

Barcelona has a beach worth visiting. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Munich is not a beach destination.

Is Munich or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Barcelona to see the historical old town. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Barcelona?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Barcelona and Munich.

Munich is a world class destination for shoppers. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Barcelona. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Is Munich or Barcelona Better for Families?

Munich is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Munich or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Munich is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Munich is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Munich or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich and Barcelona are first-rate places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Munich is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Many backpackers frequent Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Is Munich or Barcelona Better for Students?

Munich and Barcelona are first-rate places to visit for 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.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

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

Munich is renowned for its public transit. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Munich has a great public transit system. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Munich or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Munich is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Munich?

How long in Munich or Barcelona?

Both Munich and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Munich. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Munich, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

Families should spend more time in Munich than Barcelona. 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.

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

One day in Munich or Barcelona?

People visit Munich because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Barcelona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Munich or Barcelona?

People visit Munich because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Munich or Barcelona?

People visit Munich because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Munich or Barcelona?

Munich is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the youthful big city of Barcelona. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Munich or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Munich. When comparing the sizes of Munich and Barcelona, 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 Barcelona?

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 Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Barcelona. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Munich this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Munich is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Munich in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Barcelona averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Munich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Munich usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Munich usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Munich or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Munich as well as Barcelona. Many travelers come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Munich is generally much colder than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 11°C (52°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Munich often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in October than Barcelona. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Munich or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Munich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Munich can get quite cold in the winter. Munich is much colder than Barcelona in the winter. The daily temperature in Munich averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Munich usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during winter. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Munich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Barcelona. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Munich or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Munich during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Munich for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Munich is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Munich in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Barcelona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Munich often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Barcelona. Munich gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Munich