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

Should you visit Southampton or Bremen?

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

Should I visit Southampton or Bremen? 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 dynamic, up-and-coming, and waterfront port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bremen

Bremen is a lively, historic, and beautiful city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Southampton and Bremen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Southampton or Bremen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bremen than Southampton, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bremen is more touristy than Southampton and is popular for its beautiful historic center and its role as a cultural hub in Germany. It is also home to The Historic Marktplatz. Southampton is popular for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports.

The Historic Marktplatz
The Historic Marktplatz

How is Southampton different from Bremen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Southampton
Bremen

Bremen is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Bremen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's landmarks are located around the famous Marktplatz. You can tour the Bremen Town Hall or wander around the Medieval Schnoor Quarter. Also make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Peter.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Southampton. 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.


Is the Food Better in Southampton or Bremen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Southampton
Bremen

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Southampton and Bremen can be difficult as they are each good 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 Bremen area. The food is hearty and filling with many meat heavy dishes. Vegetarians may struggle to find local options. Traditional regional dishes include Kohl und Pinkel (kale and sausage), Labskaus (meat and stew), and fried smelt.

Is Southampton or Bremen Better for Nightlife?

Southampton
Bremen

Bremen is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Bremen has something for everybody. There's a variety of evening activities including cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and fine dining restaurants. Head to the Viertel District for some of the most lively clubs.

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.

Is Southampton or Bremen Better for its Old Town?

Southampton
Bremen

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

Bremen offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is beautiful with its charming streets and beautiful buildings. There's a main market square which is filled with many landmarks and tourist sights.

Southampton does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Southampton or Bremen?

Southampton
Bremen

Bremen is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping areas.

Bremen is well-known for its shopping. The city offers a mix of historic shopping areas and large shopping malls. Some of the biggest shopping malls include Karstadt Bremen, Lloyd Passage, and Weserpark.

Many visitors go to Southampton to go shopping. The city has two indoor shopping centers, as well as a range of markets and several independent vendors.

Is Southampton or Bremen Better for Families?

Southampton
Bremen

Bremen is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bremen is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate a Sunday visit to the Bremen Town Musicians play which performs popular fairy tales. If the season isn't right, there are many other kid-friendly activities around town including Bürgerpark, the puppet theater, or visiting the beach at Café Sand. Popular museums in town for kids include Universum and Bremer Geschichtenhaus.

Southampton is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Southampton or Bremen Better for Couples?

Southampton
Bremen

Southampton is notable for couples. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Bremen is a nice destination for couples. From its beautiful old town to its many great restaurants and shopping streets, couples will enjoy a romantic trip away in this beautiful city.


Is Southampton or Bremen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Southampton
Bremen

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bremen. Backpackers love the old town and lively atmosphere. There are enough tourists around that you'll find a decent social scene and the atmosphere makes for a great visit.

Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Southampton
Bremen

Bremen is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Southampton is not known for its public transit.

The public transit in Bremen can get you around easily. The city has both trams and buses that offer easy accessibility to most of the tourist areas.

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

Is Southampton or Bremen a more walkable city?

Southampton
Bremen

Bremen is an amazing city 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.

Bremen is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Europe.

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 Bremen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bremen or Southampton?

How long in Southampton or Bremen?

It's fun to spend time in either Southampton or Bremen. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bremen due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Southampton, and 2-4 days is enough time in Bremen.

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

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

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


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

One day in Southampton or Bremen?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Southampton. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Bremen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Southampton or Bremen?

Southampton 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Bremen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city 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 Bremen?

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

The historic city of Bremen offers shopping and museums. 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 Bremen?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the waterfront destination of Southampton. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bremen. 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 Music Tours in Germany, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bremen 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 Bremen is £126. 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 Bremen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Southampton £85
    Bremen £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Southampton £170
    Bremen £130
Compare Hotels in Southampton and Bremen

Looking for a hotel in Southampton or Bremen? 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 Bremen


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 Bremen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Southampton £8.70
    Bremen £38
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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bremen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bremen:

  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg With a 2 Hour Stop: $233
  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $175
  • Private Transfer From Bremen City to Hanover City: $94
  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM): $65
  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Cruise Port to Hamburg Hotels: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Southampton or Bremen?

Prices for flights to both Bremen 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
    Bremen £31
Typical Food Prices in Southampton

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


  • Breakfast
    £4.00

Typical Food Prices in Bremen

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bremen are as follows:


  • Croissant & Cappacino
    £3.35
  • Fish and Chips
    £2.74
  • Pizza and Cola
    £6.00
  • Chinese Food Lunch
    £6.86
  • Vietnamese Soup
    £4.29
  • Sandwich and Coffee
    £6.86
  • Pastry and Coffee
    £3.43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Southampton £19
    Bremen £29

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 Bremen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bremen are as follows:

  • Bremen : Private Walking Tour With A Tour Guide ( Private Tour ) : $51
  • Bremen Christmas Market Tour With A Professional Guide: $196
  • Bremen City Exploration Private Game and Tour on your Phone: $7.62
  • Bremen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Bremen Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $221
  • Bremen Schnoor Area Tour: $24
  • Bremen Schwachhausen: Crime Mystery Tour: $35
  • Bremen Tour: Full-Day Canoe Rental on the Wümme River: $48
  • Übersee Museum Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Bremen's Underground Guided Tour: $17
  • City Sightseeing Bus Tour: $27
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $7.43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Southampton £21
    Bremen £29

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 Bremen

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bremen:

  • 3-Hour Beck's Brewery Tour: $22


When comparing the travel costs between Southampton and Bremen, we can see that Southampton 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 Southampton Expensive? and Is Bremen Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Southampton or Bremen?

Bremen has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Southampton. When comparing the sizes of Southampton and Bremen, 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 Bremen?

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 Bremen in the Summer?

Both Bremen and Southampton during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Southampton this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bremen for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Southampton is around the same temperature as Bremen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Southampton in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Bremen averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the summer, Southampton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen. Southampton gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 191 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets less rain in July than Bremen. Southampton gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Southampton 18°C (64°F) 
    Bremen 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Bremen in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Southampton and Bremen. Many travelers come to Southampton for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bremen in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Southampton is generally a little warmer than Bremen. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 12°C (53°F), and Bremen fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Southampton usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen during autumn. Southampton gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 100 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Southampton usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bremen. Southampton gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Southampton 12°C (53°F) 
    Bremen 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Bremen in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Southampton as well as Bremen. Many visitors come to Southampton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Bremen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bremen can be very cold during winter. Southampton can get quite cold in the winter. Southampton is much warmer than Bremen in the winter. The daily temperature in Southampton averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Bremen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Southampton often gets more sunshine than Bremen. Southampton gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 41 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bremen. Southampton gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Southampton 4°C (40°F) 
    Bremen 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Bremen in the Spring?

Both Bremen and Southampton are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Southampton for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bremen because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Southampton is a little warmer than Bremen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Southampton in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Bremen averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Southampton usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen during spring. Southampton gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Southampton usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bremen. Southampton gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Southampton 9°C (48°F) 
    Bremen 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Bremen and Southampton

Southampton Bremen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 1°C (33°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 1°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)