A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tartu vs. Bamberg for Old Town, Couples, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Tartu or Bamberg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tartu and Bamberg 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.

Tartu

Tartu is a student-oriented, cultural, and historical university town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a storybook, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Tartu and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Tartu or Bamberg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bamberg than Tartu. While Tartu is larger than Bamberg, Bamberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bamberg is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Tartu is more popular for its nightlife. Bamberg is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Also, Bamberg is famous for the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Tartu is well known for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Tartu different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tartu or Bamberg?

Tartu
Bamberg

Bamberg is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bamberg. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Tartu or Bamberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tartu
Bamberg

Bamberg is a town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bamberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Bamberg

Tartu is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Tartu offers plenty to do in the evening. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Tartu or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its historic old town.

Bamberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Tartu. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.


Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Bamberg?

Tartu
Bamberg

Bamberg is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Bamberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Bamberg Better for Families?

Tartu
Bamberg

Both Tartu and Bamberg are notable to visit with kids.

Tartu offers lots of family activities. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Bamberg is a family-friendly place to visit. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Tartu or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Tartu
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Bamberg is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.


Is Tartu or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Bamberg

Tartu is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Bamberg is a good university town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Tartu or Bamberg Better for Students?

Tartu
Bamberg

Tartu is an amazing university town to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Tartu is a great destination for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

Is Tartu or Bamberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tartu
Bamberg

Tartu and Bamberg both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Tartu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Bamberg has a few public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Tartu or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Tartu
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its walkability.

Bamberg is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

Tartu is very walkable. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

For even more information, also check out Is Tartu Worth Visiting? and Is Bamberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tartu and Bamberg. In our opinion, Bamberg has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bamberg than Tartu. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tartu than Bamberg 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 Tartu.


  • How many days in Tartu or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Tartu or Bamberg?

In Tartu, you'll find nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This university town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bamberg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tartu or Bamberg?

In Tartu, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tartu has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. 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.


Five days in Tartu or Bamberg?

Tartu is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bamberg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tartu or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tartu. Many people enjoy the nightlife when visiting Tartu. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Tartu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tartu is €105, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is €127. 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 Tartu and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Tartu or Bamberg? 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 Tartu


Hotels in Bamberg


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: Tartu Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Bamberg 14

Is it cheaper to fly into Tartu or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Tartu 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
    Tartu 37
    Bamberg 41
Typical Food Prices in Tartu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tartu:


  • Danishes
    0.76
  • Lunch for Two
    4.93
  • Ice Cream
    1.27
  • Cookies
    0.51
  • Coffee & Cake
    3.47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tartu 16
    Bamberg 17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Tartu

For Tartu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Art Museum ticket
    0.95
  • Movie Ticket
    3.47

Tours and Activities in Tartu

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tartu.

  • European Capital of Culture 2024 - Cycling Tour: $14
  • Around Viljandi bike tour: $27
  • TARTU COUNTRY: SLED DOG TOUR & KENNEL VISIT: $75
  • Magical Tartu Romantic Walking Tour: $127
  • Charming Viljandi Walking Tour for Couples: $142
  • Spectacular Christmas Walking Tour in Viljandi: $199
  • Traditional Christmas Walking Tour in Tartu: $234

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tartu 16
    Bamberg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tartu Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Bamberg?

Tartu has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Tartu and Bamberg, 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 Tartu or Bamberg?

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 Tartu or Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg and Tartu during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tartu for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tartu is cooler than Bamberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tartu in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Bamberg averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In Bamberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tartu. In the summer, Tartu often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets more rain in July than Bamberg. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tartu 17°C (62°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Bamberg. The autumn months attract visitors to Tartu because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

In October, Tartu is generally much colder than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 6°C (43°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during autumn. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tartu usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tartu 6°C (43°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Bamberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Bamberg. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bamberg. It's quite cold in Tartu in the winter. Tartu is much colder than Bamberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around -7°C (19°F) in January, and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets less rain in January than Bamberg. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tartu -7°C (19°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tartu for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the spring for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tartu. In the spring, Tartu is much colder than Bamberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tartu in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Bamberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Tartu usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during spring. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tartu usually receives less rain than Bamberg. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tartu 5°C (41°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Tartu

Tartu Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb -6°C (20°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 26 mm (1 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 6°C (43°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec -4°C (25°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)