A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Salzburg vs. Bamberg for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Salzburg or Bamberg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg 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.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a recognizable, historic, and beautiful city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a historic, beautiful, and scenic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Bamberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Salzburg than Bamberg. Salzburg is bigger than Bamberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Salzburg is more touristy than Bamberg and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Also, Salzburg is famous for The Salzburg Old Town. Bamberg is well known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Salzburg 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 Salzburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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 Salzburg or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salzburg 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, Salzburg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

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 Salzburg or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Salzburg is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

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 Salzburg or Bamberg Better for Music?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Bamberg is not a live music destination.

Salzburg is a world class music destination. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Bamberg is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg and Bamberg both have amazing historical old towns that attract visitors.

Salzburg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Bamberg?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bamberg. 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 Salzburg or Bamberg Better for Families?

Salzburg is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Salzburg is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Bamberg is a family-friendly city. 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 Salzburg or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Salzburg and Bamberg are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Salzburg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Bamberg is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Is Salzburg or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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

Is Salzburg or Bamberg Better for Students?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Salzburg is a great destination for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Salzburg is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Salzburg. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Salzburg or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Bamberg is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Salzburg and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than in Bamberg. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

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

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

One day in Salzburg or Bamberg?

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Bamberg 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 Salzburg or Bamberg?

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Bamberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Bamberg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Bamberg?

Salzburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Salzburg has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bamberg is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Salzburg or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Bamberg is a great place to explore. 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 town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Bamberg?

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

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 Salzburg or Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

In the summer, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Bamberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Salzburg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Bamberg averages at about 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Bamberg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and Salzburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (52°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in October than Bamberg. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bamberg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Bamberg. Many travelers come to Salzburg 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 Salzburg. Salzburg is much colder than Bamberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Bamberg. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Bamberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Salzburg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Bamberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in April than Bamberg. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Salzburg