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

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bergen?

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 Bergen can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a quaint, idyllic, and peaceful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Other popular activities here include food and theater.

Bergen

Bergen is a laid back, nostalgic, and friendly city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Bergen: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bergen. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Bergen are both popular with visitors, Bergen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bergen is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Stratford-upon-Avon is known for its theatre productions and small town charm. Bergen is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty. It is also home to Bryggen. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bergen offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

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 Bergen Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is very popular for its shows and theatre. However, Bergen is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Stratford-upon-Avon draw crowds from around the world. 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.

Bergen is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bergen can be an enjoyable experience.

Stratford-upon-Avon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bergen area. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

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

Bergen 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 Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

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

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

Stratford-upon-Avon and Bergen are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Stratford-upon-Avon. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Bergen offers a nice historic old town area. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

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

Bergen is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bergen is well-known for its shopping. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

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

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

Bergen 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, Bergen is very family-friendly. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

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 Bergen Better for Couples?

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

Bergen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

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 Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bergen is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Bergen Better for Students?

Bergen is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Bergen. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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

Bergen is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Bergen can get you around easily. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

Public transit is generally 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.

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

Bergen is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Bergen is a very walkable city. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. 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.

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

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bergen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bergen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bergen 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 Bergen.

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

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

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

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bergen?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bergen, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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 Bergen?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bergen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. Don't miss the theater, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The destination of Bergen 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 Bergen?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bergen. This city 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 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Bergen, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon is more expensive. And not only is Bergen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bergen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bergen and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Stratford-upon-Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stratford-upon-Avon than you might in Bergen.

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 Bergen Expensive?.

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

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Bergen, 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 Bergen?

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 Bergen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Bergen. Most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bergen because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Bergen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Bergen averages at about 15°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Bergen. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Bergen and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town atmosphere. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Bergen this time of year.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a little warmer than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Bergen. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Bergen and Stratford-upon-Avon during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bergen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bergen. It's quite cold in Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter. Stratford-upon-Avon is much warmer than Bergen in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Bergen fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in January than Bergen. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bergen. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bergen in the spring for the small town charm.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Bergen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Bergen averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Bergen. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bergen and Stratford-upon-Avon