A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Heidelberg for Old Town, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Stockholm or Heidelberg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Stockholm and Heidelberg can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a coastal, safe, and expensive city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a historic, quaint, and energetic town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Stockholm or Heidelberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stockholm than Heidelberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Stockholm is more popular for its museums, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Heidelberg is known for its food and quaint atmosphere. Stockholm is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also home to Gamla Stan (the old town). Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

Gamla Stan (the old town)
Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stockholm or Heidelberg?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Stockholm is a great city for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Stockholm or Heidelberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Heidelberg. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Stockholm or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Stockholm and Heidelberg.

Stockholm is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Many people head to Heidelberg for the nightlife scene. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Is Stockholm or Heidelberg Better for Music?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

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

Stockholm has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Heidelberg is not a live music destination.


Is Stockholm or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Both Stockholm and Heidelberg have fantastic historic old towns worth visiting.

The rich history of Stockholm can be explored in its historical center. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Heidelberg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Heidelberg?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Stockholm is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Stockholm or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Stockholm is very family-friendly. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.


Is Stockholm or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Stockholm is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Is Stockholm or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Heidelberg is a great town to visit for backpackers. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Stockholm or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Stockholm and Heidelberg are good places to visit for students.

Stockholm is popular with students. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

It's common for students to visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.


Is Stockholm or Heidelberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Stockholm is top-notch. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Heidelberg. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Is Stockholm or Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Stockholm
Heidelberg

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Stockholm is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

Heidelberg is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Stockholm Worth Visiting? and Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Heidelberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stockholm and Heidelberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Heidelberg. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-3 days is enough time in Heidelberg.

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

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


  • How many days in Stockholm or Heidelberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stockholm 2-7 
    Heidelberg 1-3

One day in Stockholm or Heidelberg?

When visiting Stockholm, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint town of Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heidelberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Stockholm or Heidelberg?

When visiting Stockholm, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the historic destination of Heidelberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Heidelberg?

Stockholm, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively town of Heidelberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stockholm or Heidelberg?

Stockholm is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Heidelberg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Heidelberg or Stockholm?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Stockholm is $167, while the average daily cost in Heidelberg is $152. 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 Stockholm and Heidelberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stockholm $96
    Heidelberg $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stockholm $192
    Heidelberg $198
Compare Hotels in Stockholm and Heidelberg

Looking for a hotel in Stockholm or Heidelberg? 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 Stockholm


Hotels in Heidelberg


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: Stockholm Hotel Prices and Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stockholm $20
    Heidelberg $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Skavsta airport: $291
  • Departure Private Transfer: Stockholm City to Bromma Airport BMA by Minibus: $264
  • Airport Transfer By Luxuary First Class , Arlanda Airport-Sthlm City: $245
  • Skansen Stockholm Fast-Track Tickets, Private Tour, Transfer: $239
  • Airport Transfer By Business Van - Arlanda Airport - Sthlm City : $207
  • First Class Airport Limousine Transfer: Stockholm City to Arlanda Airport: $179
  • Private Arlanda Transfer Service to/from Stockholm : $170
  • From Viking Culture Guided Tour with Transfer: $170
  • Stockholm Airport (ARN): Transfer to Stockholm city/port: $168
  • Cruise port VIP Transfer: Cruise port to Stockholm city center 1-6 Passangers: $161
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Arlanda airport: $158
  • First Class Airport Limousine Transfer: Stockholm City to Bromma Airport: $151

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Stockholm or Heidelberg?

Prices for flights to both Heidelberg and Stockholm 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
    Stockholm $36
    Heidelberg $40
Typical Food Prices in Stockholm

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Stockholm:


  • Breakfast
    $9.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stockholm

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Stockholm.

  • Self Guided Taysta Food Tour in Stockholm: $33
  • Food Tour: $101
  • Stockholm Food Tour: $104
  • Stockholm Walking Food Tour With Small Group: $119
  • From Wildlife Safari with Campfire Dinner: $128

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

For Heidelberg, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stockholm $25
    Heidelberg $12

Tours and Activities in Stockholm

Here are a few actual costs in Stockholm for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Stockholm Fire and Ice Tour! Dive into Swedish lifestyle! Bike and Sauna: $235
  • 1-Day Small-Group Stockholm Archipelago Kayak Tour: $184
  • 1-day 7h Royal Palace and Castle Tour from Stockholm: $349
  • 2-Hour Free Walking Tour in Stockholm: $0.92
  • 2-day kayaking adventure around Vaxholm in Stockholm Archipelago - self guided: $255
  • 3-Hour Private Stockholm Photography Tour of Famous Landmarks : $172
  • 3h walking tour, small group max 10 people Stockholm: $63
  • ABBA Museum Fast-Track Tickets, Stockholm Pop Culture Tour: $280
  • Best Stockholm Small Group Bike Tour. English,French or Spanish! : $83
  • Best of Stockholm Walking Tour-3 Hours, Small Group max 10: $68
  • Bloody Stockholm 2h - ghosts, horror and Dark Folklore Tour: $81
  • Bohemian Södermalm Island Walking Tour: $533

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Pure experience: Original Black Forest farmer smoke tour: $6.54
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Heidelberg Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.95
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.54
  • Uncover A Self-Guided Audio Tour Through Time: $11
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stockholm $26
    Heidelberg $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Stockholm

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

  • Original Stockholm Pub Crawl: $32
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $280
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $288

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295


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


Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Heidelberg?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Heidelberg, 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 Stockholm or Heidelberg?

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 Stockholm or Heidelberg in the Summer?

Both Heidelberg and Stockholm during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Stockholm is cooler than Heidelberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stockholm in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In Heidelberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Stockholm. In the summer, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in July than Heidelberg. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stockholm 18°C (64°F) 
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Heidelberg. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stockholm is generally much colder than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 8°C (46°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg during autumn. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stockholm 8°C (46°F) 
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Heidelberg in the Winter?

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

Heidelberg can be very cold during winter. Stockholm can get quite cold in the winter. Stockholm is much colder than Heidelberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in January than Heidelberg. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stockholm -3°C (27°F) 
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Heidelberg in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Stockholm is much colder than Heidelberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stockholm in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Stockholm usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during spring. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stockholm 5°C (41°F) 
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Stockholm

Stockholm Heidelberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 26 mm (1 in) 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 3°C (37°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec -1°C (31°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)