A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Strasbourg vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Old Town, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Strasbourg or Barcelona?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Strasbourg and Barcelona can help you decide which place is right for you.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a historic, charming, and picturesque city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a laid-back, historic, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Strasbourg and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Strasbourg or Barcelona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona than Strasbourg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Barcelona is more popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Strasbourg is known for its historical sights. Barcelona is more touristy than Strasbourg and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also home to Basilica Sagrada Familia. Strasbourg is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

How is Strasbourg different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Strasbourg or Barcelona?

Spend time exploring the superb sights and museums in either Strasbourg or Barcelona.

Many visitors head to Strasbourg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Barcelona can be an interesting and educational experience. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Strasbourg or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Strasbourg and Barcelona both to be superb destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Barcelona. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Barcelona just to party. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for live music. However, Strasbourg is not a live music destination.

Barcelona is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Strasbourg is not a live music destination.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is very good for its beaches. However, Strasbourg is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Strasbourg is not a beach destination.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Strasbourg is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Strasbourg or Barcelona?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Barcelona. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Strasbourg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Strasbourg or Barcelona.

Strasbourg offers lots of family activities. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Barcelona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Strasbourg is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

It's common for backpackers to visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Strasbourg and Barcelona both offer superb public transit to get you around.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Strasbourg. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

Public transit in Barcelona can get you to some places easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Strasbourg or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Strasbourg is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Strasbourg is very walkable. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Strasbourg Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Strasbourg?

How long in Strasbourg or Barcelona?

Both Strasbourg and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Strasbourg. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Strasbourg, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Strasbourg 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 Barcelona.

One day in Strasbourg or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Strasbourg. 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.

When visiting Barcelona, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

A weekend in Strasbourg or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Strasbourg. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

When visiting Barcelona, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Strasbourg or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Strasbourg. 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.

Barcelona, 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.

A week in Strasbourg or Barcelona?

Strasbourg 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.

Barcelona 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Strasbourg or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Strasbourg and Barcelona, 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 Strasbourg or Barcelona?

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 Strasbourg or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Strasbourg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Strasbourg for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Strasbourg is cooler than Barcelona in the summer. The daily temperature in Strasbourg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Strasbourg. In the summer, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Strasbourg gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. Strasbourg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Strasbourg and Barcelona. Many visitors come to Strasbourg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Strasbourg is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Strasbourg in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Barcelona averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Strasbourg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Strasbourg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Barcelona in the Winter?

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

Strasbourg can be very cold during winter. In January, Strasbourg is generally much colder than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 2°C (35°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Strasbourg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets less rain in January than Barcelona. Strasbourg gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Barcelona in the Spring?

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

Strasbourg is cooler than Barcelona in the spring. The daily temperature in Strasbourg averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Strasbourg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Strasbourg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Barcelona. Strasbourg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Strasbourg