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

Should you visit Southampton or Bamberg?

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

Should I visit Southampton or Bamberg? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Southampton

Southampton is a up-and-coming, waterfront, and dynamic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a storybook, historic, and beautiful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Southampton and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Southampton or Bamberg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bamberg than Southampton. While Southampton is larger than Bamberg, Bamberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bamberg is very popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty, while Southampton attracts visitors for its nightlife. Bamberg is more touristy than Southampton and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also well known for the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Southampton is famous for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports.

How is Southampton different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Southampton
Bamberg

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Southampton and Bamberg.

Southampton offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Museums are a favorite activity in town. There are a surprising number of options including SeaCity Museum, the Tudor House and Garden, and Southampton City Art Gallery.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bamberg. 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 Southampton or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Southampton
Bamberg

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Southampton and Bamberg can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Southampton has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. While most people used to pass through Southampton on their way somewhere else, the city now offers a dynamic food scene with local restaurants mixed with international options and even fine dining.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bamberg area. 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 Southampton or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Southampton
Bamberg

Southampton 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 Southampton. The nightlife scene is filled with restaurants, pubs, and bars as well as a few nightclubs mixed in.

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 Southampton or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Southampton
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its old town. However, Southampton does not have a historic old town.

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

Southampton does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Southampton or Bamberg?

Southampton
Bamberg

If you're looking to go shopping, Southampton and Bamberg both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Southampton. The city has two indoor shopping centers, as well as a range of markets and several independent vendors.

Many visitors go to Bamberg to go shopping. 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 Southampton or Bamberg Better for Families?

Southampton
Bamberg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Southampton or Bamberg.

Southampton offers lots of family activities. This cruise port city offers a handful of fascinating activities for kids including learning about the Mayflower and the Titanic. There are also many parks and gardens as well as the Mayflower Theater, which regularly has kid-family productions.

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 Southampton or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Southampton
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for couples.

Bamberg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Southampton is a very popular place to visit for couples. Museums, parks, gardens, and chartered boats all offer a romantic experience for couples visiting the area.


Is Southampton or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Southampton
Bamberg

Bamberg is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Southampton
Bamberg

Bamberg is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Southampton is not known for its public transit.

While Bamberg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

Public transit is generally limited in Southampton. There are buses around town that make some areas accessible even without a car.

Is Southampton or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Southampton
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its ease of walking around.

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

Southampton is a somewhat walkable port city. It's possible to walk in parts of Southampton but in general it's easier to take a taxi.


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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Southampton?

How long in Southampton or Bamberg?

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

Families should spend more time in Bamberg than Southampton. 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 Southampton. 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 Southampton 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 Southampton or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Southampton 1-3 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Southampton or Bamberg?

In Southampton, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic town of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Southampton or Bamberg?

In Southampton, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Southampton has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the storybook destination of Bamberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Southampton or Bamberg?

Southampton 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.

The storybook town of Bamberg offers museums and food. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Southampton or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Southampton. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Southampton. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Bamberg. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Southampton?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Southampton is £132, 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 Southampton and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Southampton £85
    Bamberg £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Southampton £170
    Bamberg £128
Compare Hotels in Southampton and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Southampton 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 Southampton


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: Southampton Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Southampton £8.70
    Bamberg £12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Southampton

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Southampton:


  • Ferry to Isle of Wight
    £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Southampton

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

  • Southampton Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Birmingham: $8.12
  • Southampton Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Portsmouth: $8.12
  • Southampton City to Southampton Cruise Terminals - Departure Private Transfer: $35
  • Southampton Cruise Terminals to Southampton city - Arrival Private Transfer : $35
  • Southampton Airport (SOU) to Southampton Cruise-Arrival Transfer: $35
  • Southampton to Southampton Airport (SOU) - Departure Transfer: $35
  • Transfer from Southampton Port to Southampton Airport (SOU): $35
  • Private Southampton Departure Transfer -Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49
  • Private Southampton Arrival Transfer - Airport to Cruise Port: $49
  • Private Transfer from Southampton airport to Southampon cruise terminal: $67
  • Private Transfer from Southampton Airport (SOU) to Porstmouth: $68
  • Private Transfer from Southampton Airport (SOU) to Bournemouth City: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Southampton or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Southampton 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
    Southampton £37
    Bamberg £35
Typical Food Prices in Southampton

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


  • Breakfast
    £4.00

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

Tours and Activities in Southampton

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

  • Secrets of the Titanic Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Private Southampton Walking Tour: $22
  • Isle of Wight Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • New Forest Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Full Day Private Shore Tour in Winchester from Southampton Port: $112
  • Walk the Secrets of the Titanic: Private Tour: $114
  • Shuttle Service Southampton Cruise Terminals to Heathrow Airport and London: $153
  • Private cruise arrival from Southampton to London or airport: $159
  • Full Day Private Shore Tour in Windsor from Southampton Port: $160
  • London to Southampton and Portsmouth Cruise: $191
  • Oxford and Blenheim Palace Day Tour from Southampton: $191
  • Private Day Tour To Bath And The Cotswolds: $406

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
    Southampton £21
    Bamberg £17

Sample the Local Flavors in Southampton

Also in Southampton, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Southampton Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

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


Which is Bigger, Southampton or Bamberg?

Southampton has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton or Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg and Southampton during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Southampton for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Southampton is generally around the same temperature as Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 18°C (64°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Bamberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Southampton often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Southampton gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets less rain in July than Bamberg. Southampton 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
    Southampton 18°C (64°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Southampton and Bamberg. Many visitors come to Southampton in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Southampton is around the same temperature as Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Southampton averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

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

In October, Southampton usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Southampton 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
    Southampton 12°C (53°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Bamberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Southampton as well as Bamberg. Most visitors come to Southampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bamberg can be very cold. Southampton can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Southampton is much warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Southampton in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

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

Southampton usually gets more rain in January than Bamberg. Southampton 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
    Southampton 4°C (40°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Southampton are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Southampton because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

In April, Southampton is generally around the same temperature as Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 9°C (48°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

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

In April, Southampton usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Southampton 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
    Southampton 9°C (48°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Southampton

Southampton Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 7°C (44°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 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°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 (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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