A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nuremberg vs. Caen for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nuremberg or Caen?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nuremberg and Caen 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.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a fascinating, charming, and beautiful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Caen

Caen is a park-filled, important, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Nuremberg and Caen: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Nuremberg or Caen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nuremberg than Caen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nuremberg is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Caen attracts visitors for its food and big city activities. Nuremberg is more touristy than Caen and is popular for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. It is also well known for Nuremberg Castle. Caen is famous for its role in World War II and its memorials and historical buildings.

How is Nuremberg different from Caen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nuremberg or Caen?

Nuremberg
Caen

Nuremberg is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Nuremberg from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

Caen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many monuments around town commemorating the city's long history. You'll want to see Château de Caen, Pegasus Bridge, Mémorial de Caen, Musée de Normandie, and Musée des beaux-arts de Caen.


Is the Food Better in Nuremberg or Caen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nuremberg
Caen

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Caen. There's a market that's at its best on Sundays where you'll find fresh produce and other local ingredients. There are also Michelin starred restaurants, seafood restaurants, and other traditional dishes. Head to the Vaugueux Quarter for traditional dishes.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Nuremberg or Caen Better for Nightlife?

Nuremberg
Caen

Nuremberg is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Nuremberg has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

Caen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene stays active thanks to the 30,000 students living in town. Head to the Rue Ecuyère for a pub crawl or hit up any of the other bars around town.

Is Nuremberg or Caen Better for its Old Town?

Nuremberg
Caen

Nuremberg is renowned for its historic old town. However, Caen does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Nuremberg is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

Caen does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Nuremberg or Caen?

Nuremberg
Caen

Nuremberg is a very popular place for shopping. However, Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nuremberg. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nuremberg or Caen Better for Families?

Nuremberg
Caen

Nuremberg is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Nuremberg is a very family-friendly destination. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Caen. There are museums, parks, monasteries, and castles that kids and adults alike with enjoy visiting.

Is Nuremberg or Caen Better for Couples?

Nuremberg
Caen

Nuremberg is a very popular place for romance. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Nuremberg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

Caen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that are fascinated by history will enjoy a visit to this town in Normandy. There are also abbeys, castles and parks.


Is Nuremberg or Caen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nuremberg
Caen

Nuremberg is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Nuremberg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Caen. You'll find more apartments and bed and breakfasts than hostels in town, but backpackers still make their way here.

Is Nuremberg or Caen Better for Students?

Nuremberg
Caen

Nuremberg is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Caen is not popular with students.

Many students visit Nuremberg. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

Caen is not popular with students.

Is Nuremberg or Caen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nuremberg
Caen

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Nuremberg and Caen.

The public transit in Nuremberg can get you around easily. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

Caen offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams that travel throughout the city.


Is Nuremberg or Caen a more walkable city?

Nuremberg
Caen

Nuremberg is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Nuremberg is very walkable. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

Caen is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is best explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nuremberg Worth Visiting? and Is Caen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Caen or Nuremberg?

How long in Nuremberg or Caen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nuremberg and Caen. In our opinion, Nuremberg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nuremberg than Caen. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nuremberg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Caen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nuremberg than Caen 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 Nuremberg.


  • How many days in Nuremberg or Caen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nuremberg 1-3 
    Caen 2-3

One day in Nuremberg or Caen?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nuremberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find food and museums around the city of Caen. 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.

A weekend in Nuremberg or Caen?

Nuremberg is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the important destination of Caen. 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.


Five days in Nuremberg or Caen?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Nuremberg. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the important city of Caen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nuremberg or Caen?

The fascinating city of Nuremberg offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Caen 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Caen or Nuremberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nuremberg is €103, while the average daily cost in Caen is €123. 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 Nuremberg and Caen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nuremberg 61
    Caen 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nuremberg 122
    Caen 122
Compare Hotels in Nuremberg and Caen

Looking for a hotel in Nuremberg or Caen? 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 Nuremberg


Hotels in Caen


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: Nuremberg Hotel Prices and Caen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nuremberg 12
    Caen 35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Private transfer from Nuremberg to Prague: $620
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $268
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $204
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Salzburg with 2h of Sightseeing: $290
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $243
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $257
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $215
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $191
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $76
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $251

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Caen

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

  • Caen Carpiquet Airport (CFR) to Caen - Arrival Private Transfer: $32
  • Caen to Caen Carpiquet Airport (CFR) - Departure Private Transfer: $32
  • Private Transfer Round-Trip from Caen Airport (CFR) to Caen: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Nuremberg or Caen?

Prices for flights to both Caen and Nuremberg 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
    Nuremberg 34
    Caen 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nuremberg

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

  • 3-Hour St. Johannis Food Tour in German: $95
  • Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $95
  • Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $267

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nuremberg 10
    Caen 19

Tours and Activities in Nuremberg

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

  • Camp Zeppelin Tour in Spanish: $19
  • City tour of Nuremberg: $19
  • City tour through Nuremberg with the Bimmelbahn: $12
  • City tour through Nuremberg with the little train - Christmas tour: $11
  • Dachau Concentration Camp Private Tour: $218
  • Ferrari Supersport experience drive - drive yourself: $191
  • Former Nazi Rally Ground And Courtroom 600 Tour: $83
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.28
  • Kulinarische Fahrradtour - Knoblauchsland: $91
  • Medieval Tour in Nuremberg in Spanish: $19
  • Nürnberg oldtown: Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sightseeing Tour: $12
  • Nürnberg: Crime Escape Game - self-guided crime tour: $42

Tours and Activities in Caen

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

  • Memorial Museum Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Caen Like a Local: Customized Guided Walking Tour: $51
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $59
  • Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide in Caen: $60
  • Private Guided Bike Tour of Cabourg and Dives in French: $74
  • Guided Tour in an Old Convertible Car on the Côte de Nacre: $93
  • Guided D-Day Sites Tour & Caen Memorial Museum Ticket: $127
  • Mémorial de Caen Museum Admission and Guided Tour of D-Day Sites: $133
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $160
  • Guided Tour of the Landing Sites and the Memorial of Caen: $191
  • Small Group Guided D-Day Tour and Mémorial de Caen Museum: $201
  • D-Day private tour Juno Beach departing Caen with audio guide. 2Pers. minimum: $268

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nuremberg 16
    Caen 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Nuremberg

Also in Nuremberg, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: $24
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or Caen?

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Caen. When comparing the sizes of Nuremberg and Caen, 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 Nuremberg or Caen?

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 Nuremberg or Caen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nuremberg as well as Caen. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nuremberg this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Caen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nuremberg is generally a little warmer than Caen. Daily temperatures in Nuremberg average around 20°C (68°F), and Caen fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Caen. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nuremberg this time of the year. In the summer, Nuremberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Caen. Nuremberg gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 227 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets more rain in July than Caen. Nuremberg gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Caen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nuremberg 20°C (68°F) 
    Caen 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Caen in the Autumn?

Both Caen and Nuremberg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nuremberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Caen in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions.

Nuremberg is around the same temperature as Caen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Caen fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Caen during autumn. Nuremberg gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 128 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Caen. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Caen receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nuremberg 12°C (53°F) 
    Caen 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Caen in the Winter?

Both Caen and Nuremberg during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nuremberg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Caen for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Caen can be very cold during winter. Nuremberg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nuremberg is much colder than Caen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nuremberg in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Caen averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Nuremberg often gets less sunshine than Caen. Nuremberg gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 70 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets less rain in January than Caen. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Caen receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F) 
    Caen 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Caen in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nuremberg and Caen. Most visitors come to Nuremberg for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Caen because of the activities around the city.

In April, Nuremberg is generally around the same temperature as Caen. Daily temperatures in Nuremberg average around 10°C (50°F), and Caen fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Caen during spring. Nuremberg gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 171 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Caen. Nuremberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Caen receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nuremberg 10°C (50°F) 
    Caen 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Caen and Nuremberg

Nuremberg Caen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)