A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Nuremberg vs. Kiel for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nuremberg or Kiel?

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 Kiel 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 charming, beautiful, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kiel

Kiel is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and waterfront city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Nuremberg and Kiel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nuremberg or Kiel?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Kiel than Nuremberg. While Nuremberg is larger than Kiel, Kiel has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Kiel is better known for its beaches and big city activities, while Nuremberg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Nuremberg is more touristy than Kiel and is known for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. Kiel is well known for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival. Also, Kiel is famous for The Kiel Castle.

How is Nuremberg different from Kiel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Nuremberg are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kiel. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.


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

Nuremberg
Kiel

Foodies will find both Nuremberg and Kiel both to be notable destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nuremberg. 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).

Kiel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Nuremberg or Kiel Better for Nightlife?

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kiel has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

Is Nuremberg or Kiel Better for Beaches?

Nuremberg
Kiel

Kiel is a city with good options for the beache. However, Nuremberg is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Kiel. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Nuremberg is not a beach destination.


Is Nuremberg or Kiel Better for its Old Town?

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Kiel does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Nuremberg can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nuremberg or Kiel?

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Nuremberg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Kiel has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Nuremberg or Kiel Better for Families?

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Nuremberg is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Kiel offers lots of family activities. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.


Is Nuremberg or Kiel Better for Couples?

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Kiel is a good city for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Nuremberg or Kiel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is well known for backpackers. However, Kiel is not particularly known 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.

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Nuremberg or Kiel Better for Students?

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is well known for students. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Nuremberg is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

It's common for students to visit Kiel. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.


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

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is well known for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Nuremberg has some very good public transit options. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Nuremberg or Kiel a more walkable city?

Nuremberg
Kiel

Nuremberg is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Kiel is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Kiel or Nuremberg?

How long in Nuremberg or Kiel?

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

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

One day in Nuremberg or Kiel?

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 shopping and museums around the city of Kiel. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kiel has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Nuremberg or Kiel?

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 waterfront destination of Kiel. 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 Kiel?

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 off-the-beaten-path city of Kiel. 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 Kiel?

The charming 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.

Kiel 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 Historical Tours in Germany, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Kiel 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 Kiel is €138. 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 Kiel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nuremberg 61
    Kiel 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nuremberg 122
    Kiel 134
Compare Hotels in Nuremberg and Kiel

Looking for a hotel in Nuremberg or Kiel? 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 Kiel


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 Kiel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nuremberg 12
    Kiel 54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Airport Transfer in or to Nuremberg: $94
  • From Nuremberg to Frankfurt Airport Private Transfer- punctual & friendly Driver: $270
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $253
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $270
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $77
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $193
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $207
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $259
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Salzburg with 2h of Sightseeing: $292
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $206
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $270
  • Private transfer from Nuremberg to Prague: $630

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kiel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kiel:

  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM) - Departure Private Transfer: $119
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $119
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $238
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg: $655
  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg city: $79
  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Port to Hamburg Airport: $79

Is it cheaper to fly into Nuremberg or Kiel?

Prices for flights to both Kiel 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
    Kiel 39

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: $97
  • Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $97
  • Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $271

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

Tours and Activities in Nuremberg

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Northern Old Town": $3.25
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Southern Old Town": $3.25
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Nuremberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.96
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.43
  • Exploration Game & Guided Tour on your Phone: $6.46
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg:Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.60
  • Self-guided Tour former Nazi Party Rally Grounds: $8.58
  • Medieval Dungeons Guided Tour: $8.69
  • Historischer Kunstbunker WWII Art Bunker Tour: $10

Tours and Activities in Kiel

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

  • Lübeck Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Laboe Naval Memorial: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Kiel's Historical Port: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore this Historic Port: $12
  • SEA LIFE Timmendorfer Strand Admission Ticket: $17
  • Lübeck stories - an exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • Kiel Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $75
  • City Highlights Express Walking Tour with a Local: $93
  • Private Walking Tour of Kiel: $98
  • Private Sightseeing Tour 1,5 hours Lindau Island Lake Constance: $141

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nuremberg 16
    Kiel 12

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: $103
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $407
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $521


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


Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or Kiel?

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kiel. When comparing the sizes of Nuremberg and Kiel, 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 Kiel?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nuremberg or Kiel in the Summer?

Both Kiel and Nuremberg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nuremberg for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kiel in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Nuremberg is a little warmer than Kiel in the summer. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Kiel fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Kiel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nuremberg. Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kiel during summer. Nuremberg gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 219 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Kiel. Nuremberg gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nuremberg 20°C (68°F) 
    Kiel 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Kiel in the Autumn?

Both Kiel and Nuremberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nuremberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kiel for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Nuremberg is a little warmer than Kiel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nuremberg in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Kiel averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Nuremberg often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Nuremberg gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 102 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets less rain in October than Kiel. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nuremberg 12°C (53°F) 
    Kiel 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Kiel in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nuremberg and Kiel. Most visitors come to Nuremberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kiel because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kiel can be very cold. Nuremberg can be very cold during winter. In January, Nuremberg is generally much warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Nuremberg average around 1°C (34°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Nuremberg usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during winter. Nuremberg gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 39 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Kiel. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F) 
    Kiel 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Kiel in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nuremberg as well as Kiel. The spring months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Kiel this time of year.

Nuremberg is a little warmer than Kiel in the spring. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Kiel fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Nuremberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kiel. Nuremberg gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 171 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kiel. Nuremberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nuremberg 10°C (50°F) 
    Kiel 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Kiel and Nuremberg

Nuremberg Kiel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)