A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oxford vs. Bamberg for Couples, Attractions, Nightlife, and Food

Should you visit Oxford or Bamberg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Bamberg, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Oxford

Oxford is a scholarly, collegiate, and beautiful college town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a beautiful, scenic, and storybook town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Oxford and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Oxford or Bamberg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bamberg than Oxford. While Oxford is larger than Bamberg, Bamberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bamberg is more popular for its historical sights, while Oxford is known for its museums, nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Oxford and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also home to the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Oxford is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Oxford different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oxford or Bamberg?

Oxford
Bamberg

Oxford is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oxford can be an interesting and educational experience. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Oxford or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oxford
Bamberg

Both Oxford and Bamberg offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Oxford. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bamberg. 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 Oxford or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Oxford
Bamberg

Oxford is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Oxford offers plenty to do in the evening. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Oxford or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Oxford
Bamberg

Bamberg is very popular for its historic old town. However, Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Bamberg has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Bamberg?

Oxford
Bamberg

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Oxford and Bamberg.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Oxford. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Bamberg offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Is Oxford or Bamberg Better for Families?

Oxford
Bamberg

Oxford and Bamberg are both good destinations for the whole family.

Oxford is a family-friendly college town. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bamberg. 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 Oxford or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Oxford
Bamberg

Bamberg is very popular for romance. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Bamberg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Oxford frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.


Is Oxford or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oxford
Bamberg

Bamberg is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Oxford or Bamberg Better for Students?

Oxford
Bamberg

Oxford is an amazing college town to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Oxford is a great destination for students. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Oxford
Bamberg

Visitors will find good public transit in both Oxford and Bamberg.

Oxford has some public transit options. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

You'll find some public transit in Bamberg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Oxford or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Oxford
Bamberg

Bamberg is very popular for its walkability. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Bamberg. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

Oxford is a very walkable college town. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Bamberg?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Bamberg than Oxford. 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 Bamberg than Oxford 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 Bamberg.


  • How many days in Oxford or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oxford 1-3 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Oxford or Bamberg?

Oxford is a small town with plenty to do. This college town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Oxford or Bamberg?

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oxford has to offer.

Bamberg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Oxford or Bamberg?

Oxford is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Oxford or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oxford. Since Oxford is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Bamberg. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Oxford?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Oxford is £131, 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 Oxford and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oxford £72
    Bamberg £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oxford £144
    Bamberg £128
Compare Hotels in Oxford and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Oxford 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 Oxford


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: Oxford Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oxford £27
    Bamberg £12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oxford

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

  • National Express | Between Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airports Bus Transfers: $34
  • Fareham to Southampton Airport (SOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer from Gatwick city hotels to Dover Cruise Port: $55
  • Oxford Private Departure Transfer - Oxford Hotel/Accommodation to Oxford Airport: $68
  • Transfer in private Vehicle from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) - Central London: $96
  • Private One Way or Round Trip Transfer: Kensington SW London to Gatwick Airport: $147
  • Oxford City to London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $196
  • Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: Stansted Airport to Central London: $224
  • Gatwick Airport to Southampton Port or Hotel Private Airport Arrival Transfer: $230
  • Southampton - London Transfer: via Bath and Windsor: $234

Is it cheaper to fly into Oxford or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Oxford 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
    Oxford £41
    Bamberg £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oxford £19
    Bamberg £14

Tours and Activities in Oxford

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

  • Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Carfax Tower Entry Ticket: $3.81
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Oxford's Literary Legends and Landmarks" A Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Explore Oxford's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour for Students: $11
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Stepping Through Oxford Walking Tour: $13

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
    Oxford £21
    Bamberg £17

Sample the Local Flavors in Oxford

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oxford:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Cambridge: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Edinburgh: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Bristol: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Eccentric Oxford 3-Hour Pub Tour: $150
  • Wine Tasting in the Garden of England: $221

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 Oxford and Bamberg, we can see that Oxford 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 Oxford would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oxford 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 Oxford Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Oxford or Bamberg?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Oxford and Bamberg, 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 Oxford 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 Oxford or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Bamberg. The summer months attract visitors to Oxford because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

Oxford is cooler than Bamberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bamberg. In the summer, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in July than Bamberg. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Oxford 17°C (63°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Oxford this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Oxford is around the same temperature as Bamberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Oxford in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Bamberg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Oxford usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during autumn. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Oxford usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Oxford 11°C (52°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Oxford during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Oxford for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bamberg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Oxford. In January, Oxford is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 3°C (38°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Oxford often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets more rain in January than Bamberg. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Oxford 3°C (38°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Bamberg. Many visitors come to Oxford in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the natural beauty during these months.

Oxford is cooler than Bamberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Oxford usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during spring. Oxford gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Oxford usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Oxford 9°C (48°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Oxford

Oxford Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)