A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Bamberg for Couples, Food, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Bamberg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a remote, serene, and tranquil archipelago. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a storybook, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Orkney Islands and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bamberg than Orkney Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bamberg is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Orkney Islands is more popular for its food, beaches, and hiking. Bamberg is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Also, Bamberg is famous for the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Orkney Islands is well known for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Bamberg and Orkney Islands.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Orkney Islands. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.

Bamberg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


Is the Food Better in Orkney Islands or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Orkney Islands is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Orkney Islands makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Orkney Islands or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Bamberg is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Bamberg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Bamberg Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Orkney Islands is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Bamberg is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Orkney Islands. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Bamberg is not a beach destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Bamberg is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Bamberg is one of the most recognized in the world. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Bamberg Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Orkney Islands is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Orkney Islands is a popular spot for hiking. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Bamberg is very good for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bamberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Bamberg Better for Families?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Orkney Islands or Bamberg.

Orkney Islands offers lots of family activities. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

Bamberg is a family-friendly place to visit. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Orkney Islands or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Bamberg is renowned for couples. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Bamberg has plenty to offer. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

Orkney Islands is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

Is Orkney Islands or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Orkney Islands is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Orkney Islands. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Bamberg is a good archipelago to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.


Is Orkney Islands or Bamberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Orkney Islands and Bamberg both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Orkney Islands offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Bamberg has a few public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

Is Orkney Islands or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Orkney Islands
Bamberg

Bamberg is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

Bamberg is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Orkney Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Bamberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orkney Islands and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than in Bamberg. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orkney Islands than Bamberg 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 Orkney Islands.


  • How many days in Orkney Islands or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orkney Islands 3-7 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find food and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Bamberg, you'll find food and shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Bamberg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Orkney Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orkney Islands. In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Bamberg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Orkney Islands?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orkney Islands is £128, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is £109. 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 Orkney Islands and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orkney Islands £60
    Bamberg £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orkney Islands £120
    Bamberg £128
Compare Hotels in Orkney Islands and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Orkney Islands or Bamberg? 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 Orkney Islands


Hotels in Bamberg


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: Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orkney Islands £56
    Bamberg £12

Is it cheaper to fly into Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Orkney Islands 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
    Orkney Islands £34
    Bamberg £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orkney Islands £27
    Bamberg £14

Tours and Activities in Orkney Islands

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

  • Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall : $246
  • From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour: $275

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bamberg are as follows:

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orkney Islands £6.43
    Bamberg £17

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


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

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



When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands or Bamberg?

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 Orkney Islands or Bamberg in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Orkney Islands is much colder than Bamberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orkney Islands in July average around 12°C (54°F), and Bamberg averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In Bamberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bamberg. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Bamberg. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bamberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 9°C (48°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during autumn. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Orkney Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orkney Islands 9°C (48°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Bamberg in the Winter?

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

Bamberg can be very cold during winter. Orkney Islands can get quite cold in the winter. Orkney Islands is much warmer than Bamberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands receives a lot of rain in the winter. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in January than Bamberg. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Bamberg in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Orkney Islands is much colder than Bamberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orkney Islands in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Bamberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during spring. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)