A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Mainz for Old Town, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Stockholm or Mainz?

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 Mainz 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 clean, coastal, and safe city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Mainz

Mainz is a peaceful, historic, and quaint town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Stockholm and Mainz: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Stockholm or Mainz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stockholm than Mainz. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Stockholm is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Mainz attracts visitors for its food. Stockholm is famous for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also well known for Gamla Stan (the old town). Mainz is famous for its quaint old town, Roman heritage, and beautiful town squares.

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

How is Stockholm different from Mainz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Mainz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's an old university town with a number of historical sights. Check out the Church of St. Stephan, Mainz Cathedral, the Gutenberg Museum, and the Museum of Ancient Seafaring.


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

Stockholm
Mainz

Mainz 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 Mainz. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve local food. There are also wine taverns where you can sample the local wines and dine of regional specialties.

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 Mainz Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Stockholm has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Mainz. It's a sleepy little town, so even locals often head to bigger cities for better nightlife.

Is Stockholm or Mainz Better for Music?

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm is terrific for live music. However, Mainz is not a live music destination.

Stockholm is known as a music capital around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Mainz is not a live music destination.


Is Stockholm or Mainz Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm is terrific for its historic old town. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

Stockholm has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Mainz. Filled with beautiful squares and cobblestone streets, this is a nice old town in a pleasant city.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Mainz?

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Mainz offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the boulevard of Am Brand near the cathedral for some of the town's best shopping. There are shops that line the street and it's a nice area to walk around.

Is Stockholm or Mainz Better for Families?

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Stockholm is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Mainz doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Kids will enjoy the Gutenburg Museum and the outdoor spaces where they can run around. There's also a nice old town that everyone will have fun exploring.


Is Stockholm or Mainz Better for Couples?

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm is terrific for romance. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Stockholm is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Mainz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Located on the Rhine River, this scenic setting is popular for river cruises. The town is nice to explore on its own, or you can hop around and take in several of the German river towns. You can also sit at outdoor cafes and sip local wine.

Is Stockholm or Mainz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm and Mainz are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Stockholm is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Mainz. The town is popular with river cruises but you'll also find a hostel or two where budget travelers can save some money and meet other backpackers.

Is Stockholm or Mainz Better for Students?

Stockholm
Mainz

Mainz is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Mainz. It's a university town with a pleasant atmosphere and a beautiful setting.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. 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.


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

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Stockholm can take you anywhere. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

Public transit in Mainz can get you to some places easily. There are regional trains that make it easy to use Mainz as a base to explore the area, or you could visit Mainz as a day trip from another nearby town.

Is Stockholm or Mainz a more walkable city?

Stockholm
Mainz

Stockholm and Mainz both are world-class when exploring on foot.

Getting around Stockholm on foot is easy. 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.

Mainz is a very easy city to get around on foot. The town is easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Mainz or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Mainz?

It's fun to spend time in either Stockholm or Mainz. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Stockholm due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 2-4 days is enough time in Mainz.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Mainz. 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 Mainz. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Stockholm than Mainz 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 Stockholm.


  • How many days in Stockholm or Mainz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stockholm 2-7 
    Mainz 2-4

One day in Stockholm or Mainz?

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the live music. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Mainz. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Stockholm or Mainz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and food around the peaceful destination of Mainz. 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 Mainz?

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the live music. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful town of Mainz. 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 Mainz?

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Mainz 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Mainz 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 Mainz 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 Mainz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stockholm $96
    Mainz $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stockholm $192
    Mainz $160
Compare Hotels in Stockholm and Mainz

Looking for a hotel in Stockholm or Mainz? 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 Mainz


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 Mainz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stockholm $20
    Mainz $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

  • Train Transfer between City and Arlanda Airport: $21
  • Stockholm hotel to Stockholm Port Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO) to Stockholm City - Arrival Private Transfer: $80
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm city centre to Bromma Airport: $73
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to city centre: $102
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Skavsta airport: $291
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Arlanda airport: $158
  • Stockholm Port to Stockholm hotel Arrival Private Transfer: $41
  • Stockholm Port to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Stockholm Hotels to Nynashamn Cruise Port Private Transfer: $38
  • Stockholm Departure Private Transfer to Arlanda ARN Airport by Business Car: $132
  • Stockholm City to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Stockholm or Mainz?

Prices for flights to both Mainz 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
    Mainz $44
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stockholm $25
    Mainz $36

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 Mainz

For Mainz, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Romantic Old Town Self-guided Discovery Tour: $8.45
  • Guided tour in Mainz on the Rhine in german and english: $21
  • Mainz Syndicate City Escape Game Self Guided Tour: $22
  • 2-Hour Advent Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Rhine: $22
  • Crime-Tour - Escape Game: $42
  • Self-Guided Urban Adventure Game: $43
  • Urban Adventure Game in Mainz with an app: $43
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $51
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Mainz E-Bike City Tour: $74
  • Private Guided Walking Tour in Mainz: $82
  • Guided Hotrod City Starter Tour: $95

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stockholm $26
    Mainz $23

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


When comparing the travel costs between Stockholm and Mainz, 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 Mainz Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Mainz?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Mainz. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Mainz, 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 Mainz?

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 Mainz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Mainz. The summer months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mainz this time of year.

In July, Stockholm is generally around the same temperature as Mainz. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°F), and Mainz fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mainz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Stockholm this time of the year. In the summer, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Mainz. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mainz receives 225 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets more rain in July than Mainz. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Mainz receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stockholm 18°C (64°F) 
    Mainz 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Mainz in the Autumn?

Both Mainz and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mainz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Stockholm is cooler than Mainz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Mainz fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mainz during autumn. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Mainz receives 103 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of rain as Mainz. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Mainz receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stockholm 8°C (46°F) 
    Mainz 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Mainz in the Winter?

Both Mainz and Stockholm during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Mainz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Mainz can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Stockholm. In the winter, Stockholm is much colder than Mainz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Mainz averages at about 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mainz. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mainz receives 41 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in January than Mainz. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Mainz receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stockholm -3°C (27°F) 
    Mainz 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Mainz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Mainz. Many visitors come to Stockholm in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Mainz for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Stockholm is generally much colder than Mainz. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Mainz fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Stockholm usually receives more sunshine than Mainz during spring. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Mainz receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Mainz. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Mainz receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stockholm 5°C (41°F) 
    Mainz 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Mainz and Stockholm

Stockholm Mainz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (35°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in) 3°C (38°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 26 mm (1 in) 6°C (43°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Nov 3°C (37°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec -1°C (31°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)