A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Nuremberg vs. Heidelberg for Old Town, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a beautiful, historic, and fascinating city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a scenic, character-filled, and historic town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Nuremberg and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Nuremberg or Heidelberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nuremberg than Heidelberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Nuremberg is more popular for its museums and shopping, while Heidelberg is known for its food, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nuremberg is popular for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. It is also home to Nuremberg Castle. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

How is Nuremberg different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

Nuremberg is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Nuremberg has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg. 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.

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 Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nuremberg and Heidelberg.

Nuremberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Heidelberg for the nightlife scene. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Is Nuremberg or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

Both Nuremberg and Heidelberg have fantastic historic old towns worth visiting.

The historic old town of Nuremberg is revered around 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.

With a famous historical old-town, Heidelberg offers plenty to see. 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Nuremberg or Heidelberg?

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

Nuremberg 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 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.

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 Nuremberg or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

Nuremberg is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nuremberg. 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Nuremberg or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

Both Nuremberg and Heidelberg are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

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

Heidelberg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.


Is Nuremberg or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

Nuremberg and Heidelberg are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nuremberg is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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 and backpackers 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.

Is Nuremberg or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

Nuremberg is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for 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.

Heidelberg is a good city to visit for 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.

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

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

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

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

Heidelberg offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.


Is Nuremberg or Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Nuremberg
Heidelberg

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

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Nuremberg?

How long in Nuremberg or Heidelberg?

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

Families should spend more time in Nuremberg than Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nuremberg 1-3 
    Heidelberg 1-3

One day in Nuremberg or Heidelberg?

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Nuremberg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nuremberg, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint town of Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heidelberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nuremberg or Heidelberg?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Nuremberg, 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. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the charming destination of Heidelberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nuremberg or Heidelberg?

Nuremberg, a popular city, 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively town of Heidelberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nuremberg or Heidelberg?

Nuremberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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 choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Historical Tours in Germany, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is €142. 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 Heidelberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nuremberg 61
    Heidelberg 93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nuremberg 122
    Heidelberg 186
Compare Hotels in Nuremberg and Heidelberg

Looking for a hotel in Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg


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: Nuremberg Hotel Prices and Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nuremberg 12
    Heidelberg 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Private transfer from Nuremberg to Prague: $617
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Berlin with 2h of Sightseeing: $274
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $266
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $266
  • From Nuremberg to Frankfurt Airport Private Transfer- punctual & friendly Driver: $266
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $266
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $255
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $249
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $241
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $214
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $203
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $190

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $250
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Nuremberg or Heidelberg?

Prices for flights to both Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37

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: $266

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: $478

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nuremberg 10
    Heidelberg 11

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: $18
  • 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: $216
  • Former Nazi Rally Ground And Courtroom 600 Tour: $82
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.25
  • Medieval Tour in Nuremberg in Spanish: $18
  • Nürnberg oldtown: Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sightseeing Tour: $12
  • Nürnberg: Crime Escape Game - self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Nürnberg: Culinary Bike Tour: $95
  • Nürnberg:Die spannende Rätseltour durch Deine Stadt: $63

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: $3.19
  • 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: $6.37
  • Pure experience: Original Black Forest farmer smoke tour: $6.51
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.51
  • Heidelberg Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.92
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.92
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $9.05
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.31
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nuremberg 16
    Heidelberg 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
  • Private 1.5-Hour Tour with Brewery Visit: $101
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $399
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $511

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: $293


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nuremberg and Heidelberg, we can see that Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or Heidelberg?

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg or Heidelberg in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Nuremberg is around the same temperature as Heidelberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nuremberg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In Heidelberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nuremberg. In the summer, Nuremberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg. Nuremberg gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets less rain in July than Heidelberg. Nuremberg gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nuremberg 20°C (68°F) 
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nuremberg and Heidelberg. Many travelers come to Nuremberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nuremberg is generally around the same temperature as Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Nuremberg average around 12°C (53°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Nuremberg usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during autumn. Nuremberg gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Nuremberg or Heidelberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nuremberg as well as Heidelberg. Many visitors come to Nuremberg 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. Nuremberg can get quite cold in the winter. Nuremberg is much colder than Heidelberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Nuremberg often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Nuremberg gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets less rain in January than Heidelberg. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F) 
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Heidelberg in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Nuremberg is around the same temperature as Heidelberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nuremberg in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg during spring. Nuremberg gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Nuremberg gets 48 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
    Nuremberg 10°C (50°F) 
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Nuremberg

Nuremberg Heidelberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)