A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nottingham vs. Heidelberg for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Nottingham or Heidelberg?

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

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

Nottingham

Nottingham is a authentic, dynamic, and livable city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a charming, scenic, and character-filled town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Nottingham and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Heidelberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nottingham than Heidelberg. Nottingham is bigger than Heidelberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nottingham is better known for its museums, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Heidelberg is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Also, Nottingham is famous for Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Heidelberg?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Nottingham is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nottingham. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Heidelberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Nottingham or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is well known for nightlife. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Heidelberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

If you're looking for night time activities Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Is Nottingham or Heidelberg Better for Music?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Nottingham is a good destination for its music scene. However, Heidelberg is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Heidelberg is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is very popular for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Heidelberg has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Heidelberg?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Nottingham is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nottingham. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Nottingham or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Both Nottingham and Heidelberg are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Heidelberg offers lots of family activities. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.


Is Nottingham or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Heidelberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Nottingham or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is well known for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a town with good options for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

Heidelberg is popular with students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Nottingham is not popular with students.


Is Nottingham or Heidelberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Nottingham and Heidelberg.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Public transit in Heidelberg can get you to some places easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Is Nottingham or Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Heidelberg

Nottingham and Heidelberg both are very good when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Heidelberg is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Heidelberg?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heidelberg than Nottingham 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 Heidelberg.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Heidelberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Heidelberg 1-3

One day in Nottingham or Heidelberg?

With live music and food around the dynamic city of Nottingham, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nottingham, one day is sufficent for most.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic town of Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Nottingham or Heidelberg?

With food and shopping around the destination of Nottingham, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Heidelberg, 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 Nottingham or Heidelberg?

Nottingham, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Heidelberg, 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 Nottingham or Heidelberg?

Nottingham 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.

Heidelberg 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 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Heidelberg or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Heidelberg is £121. 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 Nottingham and Heidelberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Heidelberg £79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Heidelberg £158
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Heidelberg

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Heidelberg? 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 Nottingham


Hotels in Heidelberg


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Heidelberg £15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Heidelberg?

Prices for flights to both Heidelberg and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    Heidelberg £32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Heidelberg £9.82

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

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

  • Gems of Boston (UK) – Private Walking Tour for Couples: $222
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Men's Yellow Belly Half-Day Spa Experience: $203
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $279
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $153
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Pure experience: Original Black Forest farmer smoke tour: $6.54
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Heidelberg Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.95
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.54
  • Uncover A Self-Guided Audio Tour Through Time: $11
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Heidelberg £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295


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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Heidelberg?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Heidelberg, 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 Nottingham or Heidelberg?

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 Nottingham or Heidelberg in the Summer?

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

In July, Nottingham is generally cooler than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Heidelberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nottingham often gets less sunshine than Heidelberg. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in July than Heidelberg. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

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

Nottingham is cooler than Heidelberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Heidelberg in the Winter?

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

Heidelberg can be very cold during winter. Nottingham can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nottingham is a little warmer than Heidelberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Heidelberg. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Heidelberg in the Spring?

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

In April, Nottingham is generally cooler than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Nottingham

Nottingham Heidelberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)