A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Bern for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Bern?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming, historic, and quaint town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's also known for food and theater.

Bern

Bern is a charming, beautiful, and cultural city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Bern: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bern. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Bern are popular destinations, Bern has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bern is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its theatre productions and small town charm. Bern is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory. It is also well known for The Zytglogge Clock Tower. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Bern?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bern is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Bern specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with architecture and charming character. While you're in town make sure you visit the Einstein Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Bern Cathedral.

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 Bern Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is renowned for theatre. However, Bern 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.

Bern is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Bern 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 Bern area. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

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

Bern 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 Bern. There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.

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

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

Bern is a very popular place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bern. The charming old town is filled with quaint alleys and sandstone buildings. It's a compact area that flows down a hill to the River Aare.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

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

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

Bern is well-known for its shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops and unique markets. The main shopping streets are Spitalgasse and Marktgasse and popular items to buy include jewelry, art, and watches.

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

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

Bern 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, Bern is very family-friendly. This charming town has riverside parks and pools, a zoo, a waterpark, and kid-friendly museums that the whole family can enjoy. You can also visit nearby Gurten, a mountain with tobogganing, concerts, and a mini ski resort.

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 Bern Better for Couples?

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

Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.

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 Bern Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bern is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Bern. Like most of Switzerland, prices are a bit high, but there are some hostels and free activities that backpackers and budget travelers can enjoy.

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 Bern Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bern 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 Bern can get you around easily. There are trams and buses that run around town.

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 Bern a more walkable city?

Bern 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.

Bern is a very walkable city. It's fun to explore the old town on foot. It is compact enough to that you can see all of the highlights in a few hours.

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 Bern Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bern?

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

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

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

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

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bern?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Bern, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Bern?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the theater. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people visit Bern for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bern, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Bern?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The beautiful destination of Bern offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Bern?

Because Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bern. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Bern, we can see that Bern is more expensive. And not only is Stratford-upon-Avon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Stratford-upon-Avon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Bern would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bern than you might in Stratford-upon-Avon.

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 Bern Expensive?.

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

Bern has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Bern, 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 Bern?

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 Bern in the Summer?

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

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Bern. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 17°C (63°F), and Bern fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bern. In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Bern. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 250 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in July than Bern. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bern receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Bern 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 natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bern this time of year.

Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Bern in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Bern fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Bern during autumn. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more rain than Bern. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bern receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Bern 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. Also, many travelers come to Bern for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bern. It's quite cold in Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter. In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Bern. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Bern averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets less sunshine than Bern. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 65 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bern. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bern receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally cooler than Bern. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 9°C (48°F), and Bern fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less sunshine than Bern during spring. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 164 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Bern. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bern receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bern and Stratford-upon-Avon