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

Should you visit Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Nuremberg, 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 peaceful, relaxed, and traditional island. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

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.

Saaremaa and Nuremberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
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
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nuremberg. Although Saaremaa and Nuremberg are both popular with visitors, Nuremberg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nuremberg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Saaremaa is known for its food, beaches, and small town charm. Nuremberg is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. It is also home to Nuremberg Castle. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Nuremberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Nuremberg 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, 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.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa. 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.

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 Saaremaa or Nuremberg Better for Nightlife?

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is great for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Nuremberg for the nightlife scene. 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.

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 Nuremberg Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Saaremaa is a island with good options for the beache. However, Nuremberg is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saaremaa. 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.

Nuremberg is not a beach destination.


Is Saaremaa or Nuremberg Better for its Old Town?

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Nuremberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is great for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Nuremberg Better for Families?

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Nuremberg 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 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.

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 Nuremberg Better for Couples?

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Saaremaa and Nuremberg are both high quality to visit as a couple.

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.

Nuremberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Saaremaa or Nuremberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Nuremberg. 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.

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 Nuremberg Better for Students?

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

Nuremberg is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.


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

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

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 Nuremberg a more walkable city?

Saaremaa
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is great for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

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 Nuremberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nuremberg or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saaremaa and Nuremberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saaremaa than in Nuremberg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 1-3 days is enough time in Nuremberg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg.


  • How many days in Saaremaa or Nuremberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saaremaa 2-4 
    Nuremberg 1-3

One day in Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

Even though Saaremaa is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Nuremberg offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

Saaremaa is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nuremberg 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nuremberg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

Saaremaa is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

Nuremberg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

Saaremaa 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.

Nuremberg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Nuremberg or Saaremaa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saaremaa is €101, while the average daily cost in Nuremberg is €103. 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 Saaremaa and Nuremberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saaremaa 36
    Nuremberg 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saaremaa 72
    Nuremberg 122
Compare Hotels in Saaremaa and Nuremberg

Looking for a hotel in Saaremaa or Nuremberg? 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 Saaremaa


Hotels in Nuremberg


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saaremaa 47
    Nuremberg 12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Saaremaa:


  • Rental Car and Gas for a Day
    34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Private transfer from Nuremberg to Prague: $620
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Salzburg with 2h of Sightseeing: $290
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $257
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $251
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with Beer Museum : $246
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $243
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $215
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $204
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $191

Is it cheaper to fly into Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

Prices for flights to both Nuremberg and Saaremaa 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
    Saaremaa 37
    Nuremberg 34
Typical Food Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saaremaa:


  • Salmon
    1.28

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: $267

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saaremaa 21
    Nuremberg 10

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: $19
  • 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: $218
  • Ferrari Supersport experience drive - drive yourself: $191
  • Former Nazi Rally Ground And Courtroom 600 Tour: $83
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.28
  • Kulinarische Fahrradtour - Knoblauchsland: $91
  • Medieval Tour in Nuremberg in Spanish: $19
  • Nürnberg oldtown: Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sightseeing Tour: $12
  • Nürnberg: Crime Escape Game - self-guided crime tour: $42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saaremaa 11
    Nuremberg 16

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
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513


When comparing the travel costs between Saaremaa and Nuremberg, we can see that Nuremberg is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Nuremberg?

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg?

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 Saaremaa or Nuremberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Nuremberg. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Nuremberg for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saaremaa is generally cooler than Nuremberg. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 17°C (62°F), and Nuremberg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nuremberg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saaremaa this time of the year. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Nuremberg. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 236 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in July than Nuremberg. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saaremaa 17°C (62°F) 
    Nuremberg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Nuremberg in the Autumn?

Both Nuremberg and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Nuremberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Saaremaa is cooler than Nuremberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 8°C (47°F) in October, and Nuremberg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Nuremberg during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 122 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saaremaa usually receives more rain than Nuremberg. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saaremaa 8°C (47°F) 
    Nuremberg 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Nuremberg in the Winter?

Both Nuremberg and Saaremaa during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nuremberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nuremberg can be very cold during winter. Saaremaa can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saaremaa is much colder than Nuremberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saaremaa in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Nuremberg averages at about 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Nuremberg. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 47 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Nuremberg. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saaremaa -3°C (27°F) 
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Nuremberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Nuremberg. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the natural beauty.

Saaremaa can be very cold during spring. In April, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Nuremberg. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 4°C (38°F), and Nuremberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Nuremberg during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Nuremberg. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saaremaa 4°C (38°F) 
    Nuremberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Nuremberg and Saaremaa

Saaremaa Nuremberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb -3°C (26°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar -1°C (30°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 4°C (38°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 8°C (47°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 0°C (32°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)