A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Munich vs. Cairngorms National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Munich or Cairngorms National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich or Cairngorms National Park, 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 economically thriving, bustling, and high energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a beautiful, serene, and picturesque national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Munich and Cairngorms National Park: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Munich or Cairngorms National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Munich. Although Munich and Cairngorms National Park are popular destinations, Munich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Munich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cairngorms National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Munich is famous for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also well known for The Nymphenburg Palace. Cairngorms National Park is famous for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains.

How is Munich different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Munich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Munich or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Munich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Cairngorms National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Munich or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Munich is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Munich or Cairngorms National Park Better for Music?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich is renowned for its music scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a live music destination.

Munich has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Cairngorms National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Munich or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Munich is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Cairngorms National Park?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Munich specifically to go shopping. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Munich or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich and Cairngorms National Park are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Munich is known to be 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.

Cairngorms National Park is a very family-friendly destination. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.


Is Munich or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich and Cairngorms National Park are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Munich or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Munich, as it is a very popular city for 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Is Munich or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Munich. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.


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

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Munich or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Munich
Cairngorms National Park

Munich is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Munich Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Munich?

How long in Munich or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Munich or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Munich has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Munich than Cairngorms National Park. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Munich, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

Families should spend more time in Munich than Cairngorms National Park. 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 Cairngorms National Park. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich than Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Munich 2-5 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Munich or Cairngorms National Park?

When visiting Munich, people usually allow for lots of time. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Cairngorms National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Munich or Cairngorms National Park?

When visiting Munich, people usually allow for lots of time. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

When visiting Munich, people usually allow for lots of time. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairngorms National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Munich is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the tranquil destination of Cairngorms National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Munich 89
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Munich 178
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Munich and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Munich or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Munich 19
    Cairngorms National Park 62
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:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Munich HTL-APT (MUC): $177
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Munich APT-HTL (MUC): $177
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Munich City - Munich Airport (MUC): $74
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Munich Airport (MUC)- Munich City: $74
  • Transfer Munich to Kaprun,Zell am See,Flachau,Stubai,Kitzbuhel,Innsbruck & Other: $259
  • Skip-the-line Nymphenburg Palace Guided Tour with Transfers: $235
  • Skip-the-line Hellabrunn Zoo in Munich with Transfers: $133
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Munich Airport to Munich Central Station: $14
  • Salzburg to Munich Transfer: $267
  • Roundtrip Transfer Private Vehicle Munich Airport (MUC) - Munich City: $155
  • Private transfer from Munich to Vienna: $930
  • Private transfer from Munich to Prague: $706

Is it cheaper to fly into Munich or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park 35
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
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Food Tour Beer- 3 small beers & "Brotzeit" in GERMAN: $79
  • 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: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265
  • Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner : $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Munich 29
    Cairngorms National Park 31
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:

  • 2 Hours VIP Private Segway Tour: $91
  • 2-hour Private Walking Tour in Munich: $214
  • 2-hour city tour by bike in Munich to the hotspots of the Isar metropolis: $35
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $210
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $211
  • A Tour inside Munich's Justizpalast: $24
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $202
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $207
  • Andechs Monastery Beer Hike Food Experience Private Tour (departs Munich): $208
  • Art & Heritage: Private Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $202
  • Art & Heritage: Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $395
  • Bad Tölz Private Guided Walking Tour: $220

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Munich 37
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83
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
  • Max & Moritz: Interactive Wine Tasting Experience: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $288
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


When comparing the travel costs between Munich and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Munich 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 Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Munich or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Munich or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Munich as well as Cairngorms National Park. Most visitors come to Munich for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Munich is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Munich averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Munich this time of the year. In the summer, Munich often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets more rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Munich 20°C (68°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Munich or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Munich because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

In the autumn, Munich is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Munich in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Munich usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Munich usually receives less rain than Cairngorms National Park. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Munich 11°C (52°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Munich or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Munich during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Munich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cairngorms National Park. It's quite cold in Munich in the winter. In January, Munich is generally much colder than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Munich average around -1°C (31°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Munich often gets less sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Munich -1°C (31°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Munich or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Cairngorms National Park. Many travelers come to Munich for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

Munich is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Munich averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Munich usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Munich usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Munich gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Munich 11°C (53°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Munich

Munich Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)