A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Berlin for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saaremaa or Berlin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Berlin, 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.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a calm, peaceful, and relaxed island. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and beaches.

Berlin

Berlin is a historic, cultural, and artsy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Saaremaa and Berlin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Berlin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Berlin. Although Saaremaa and Berlin are both popular with visitors, Berlin has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Berlin is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Saaremaa is known for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Berlin is more touristy than Saaremaa and is known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. It is also home to the Brandenburg Gate. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Berlin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saaremaa or Berlin?

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

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Berlin has many famous sights for visitors. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saaremaa or Berlin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Berlin can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Saaremaa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Berlin makes for a great culinary experience. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is Saaremaa or Berlin Better for Nightlife?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

Berlin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Berlin Better for Music?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Saaremaa is not a live music destination.

Berlin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Saaremaa is not a live music destination.

Is Saaremaa or Berlin Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Berlin is not a beach destination.

Saaremaa has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Berlin is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Berlin?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Berlin specifically to go shopping. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Berlin Better for Families?

Berlin is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Berlin. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Berlin Better for Couples?

Saaremaa is a great island for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Berlin is a good island for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Saaremaa or Berlin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Berlin, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Is Saaremaa or Berlin Better for Students?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

Berlin is a great destination for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.

Is Saaremaa or Berlin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Berlin is top-notch. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Berlin a more walkable city?

Berlin is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Saaremaa Worth Visiting? and Is Berlin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berlin or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Berlin?

Both Saaremaa and Berlin have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Berlin than in Saaremaa. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 2-7 days is enough time in Berlin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin than Saaremaa 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 Berlin.

One day in Saaremaa or Berlin?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Berlin is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Berlin?

Saaremaa 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.

Berlin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Berlin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saaremaa. 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.

Berlin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Berlin?

Saaremaa is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Berlin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Berlin has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Berlin?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Berlin, 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 Saaremaa or Berlin?

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 Saaremaa or Berlin in the Summer?

Both Berlin and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berlin this time of year.

In July, Saaremaa is generally cooler than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 17°C (62°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Berlin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saaremaa. Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Berlin during summer. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saaremaa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Berlin. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Berlin in the Autumn?

Both Berlin and Saaremaa during the autumn are popular places to visit. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Berlin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Saaremaa is cooler than Berlin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 8°C (47°F) in October, and Berlin fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Saaremaa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Berlin. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets more rain in October than Berlin. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Berlin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Berlin. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Berlin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Berlin can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Saaremaa. In the winter, Saaremaa is much colder than Berlin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saaremaa in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Berlin averages at about -0°C (31°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Berlin during winter. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saaremaa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Berlin. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Berlin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Berlin. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Berlin for the activities around the city during these months.

Saaremaa can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 4°C (38°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

In the spring, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Berlin. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in April than Berlin. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Berlin and Saaremaa