A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Baden-Baden for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Baden-Baden can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a peaceful, park-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the food and theater.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a peaceful, historic, and relaxing spa town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Baden-Baden: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Baden-Baden than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Baden-Baden is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Baden-Baden is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals. Also, Baden-Baden is famous for The Thermal Baths. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Baden-Baden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Baden-Baden and Stratford-upon-Avon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is very good for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Baden-Baden offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Stratford-upon-Avon is a world-class destination for its theatre productions. However, Baden-Baden is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Stratford-upon-Avon. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Baden-Baden is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Baden-Baden has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden Better for Nightlife?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Baden-Baden. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Stratford-upon-Avon is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Baden-Baden does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Stratford-upon-Avon to see the old town. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Baden-Baden does not have a historic old town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden Better for Hiking?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is very good for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Baden-Baden. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Baden-Baden. The city is filled with boutiques that sell jewelry, chocolate, designer fashion, and fine wine. There are several pedestrian shopping streets including the popular Lange-Strasse.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden Better for Families?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Baden-Baden is very family-friendly. There are plenty of opportunities to get into nature with hikes and wildlife reserves. There's also a funicular and castles to explore as well as several kid-friendly museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden Better for Couples?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Baden-Baden makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a spa town, so there are thermal baths that couples can enjoy. There are also many gardens and walks through the countryside. The old town is picturesque and the castles are fun to explore.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Baden-Baden.

Public transit is mostly limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Public transit is generally limited in Baden-Baden. There are a number of bus lines that run around town.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Baden-Baden

Stratford-upon-Avon and Baden-Baden are notable when it comes to walkability.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable place. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

Baden-Baden is a somewhat walkable town. It's possible to walk around parts of town, but it's easier to explore with a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Baden-Baden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Baden-Baden or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Baden-Baden than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Baden-Baden.


  • How many days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stratford-upon-Avon 1-2 
    Baden-Baden 1-3

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town with plenty to do. Most people visit for the theater. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Baden-Baden, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many people visit Baden-Baden for a weekend. Lots of people come for the food. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Baden-Baden, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

Because Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

The destination of Baden-Baden offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

Since Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the theater. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Baden-Baden. This spa town offers something for everyone. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Baden-Baden or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Stratford-upon-Avon is £144, while the average daily cost in Baden-Baden is £132. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Baden-Baden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Baden-Baden £75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Baden-Baden £150
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Baden-Baden

Looking for a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden? 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 Stratford-upon-Avon


Hotels in Baden-Baden


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: Stratford-upon-Avon Hotel Prices and Baden-Baden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Baden-Baden £28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also for Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Stratford-upon-Avon To London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $272

Is it cheaper to fly into Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

Prices for flights to both Baden-Baden and Stratford-upon-Avon 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
    Stratford-upon-Avon £39
    Baden-Baden £35
Typical Food Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Cheese & Crackers
    £7.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Shakespearean Cooking Experience in Stratford-upon-Avon: $163
  • Pasta Making Experience - Cooking Class: $176

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £21
    Baden-Baden £29
Typical Entertainment Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Stratford-upon-Avon's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Warwick Castle (2)
    £59
  • Lunch
    £12
  • Lunch for 2
    £17

Tours and Activities in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Tour of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter: $6.99
  • Warwick Self-Guided Immersive Audio Walking Tour: $8.88
  • Stratford-Upon-Avon Audio Walking Tour: Shakespeare's Life: $8.89
  • Shakespeare’s A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • City Exploration Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Tudor World Museum Entrance Ticket: $9.99
  • Shakespeare & Hathaway TV Sites Tour: $11
  • Shakespeare and Hathaway 2-Hour Self Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Historical Walking Tour: $12
  • The Sinister Side of Shakespeare's Stratford Walking Tour: $12
  • The WalkTalkShow.co.uk - Guided Tour of Stratford upon Avon: $13
  • The Sinister Side of Shakespeare's Stratford Walking Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Baden-Baden

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

  • Baden-Baden Private walking tour: $374
  • Baden-Baden Yuletide Stroll: Experience the Festive Charm: $359
  • Christmas Market Walking Tour: $254
  • Powerful Women Themed Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Private Guided KNUMO e-Scooter Tour VIP: $138
  • Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $248
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $232
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $252
  • Private Walking Tour in Baden Neuweirs Vineyard: $653
  • Romance in Baden-Baden – Private Walking Tour: $252
  • Scenic Baden-Baden Walking Tour: Discovering Historic Charm: $373

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Baden-Baden £10
Typical Alcohol Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Stratford-upon-Avon from other travelers:


  • Beers
    £8.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also in Stratford-upon-Avon, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Shakespeare Gin Distillery Tour & Taste: $24
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 11am Ticket: $25
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 1pm Ticket: $25


When comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Baden-Baden, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Baden-Baden Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

Baden-Baden has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Baden-Baden, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Baden-Baden. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Baden-Baden for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Baden-Baden in the summer. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baden-Baden. In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Baden-Baden. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baden-Baden receives 231 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Baden-Baden. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stratford-upon-Avon 17°C (63°F) 
    Baden-Baden 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden in the Autumn?

Both Baden-Baden and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Baden-Baden in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon is around the same temperature as Baden-Baden. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Baden-Baden averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Baden-Baden during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Baden-Baden receives 91 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Baden-Baden. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stratford-upon-Avon 11°C (52°F) 
    Baden-Baden 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden in the Winter?

Both Baden-Baden and Stratford-upon-Avon during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Baden-Baden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baden-Baden can be very cold during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally much warmer than Baden-Baden. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 3°C (38°F), and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Baden-Baden. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baden-Baden receives 35 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in January than Baden-Baden. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stratford-upon-Avon 3°C (38°F) 
    Baden-Baden 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Baden-Baden in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Baden-Baden. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Baden-Baden because of the natural beauty.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Baden-Baden in the spring. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Baden-Baden during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Baden-Baden receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Baden-Baden. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stratford-upon-Avon 9°C (48°F) 
    Baden-Baden 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Baden-Baden and Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Baden-Baden
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 2°C (35°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)


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