A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tartu vs. Munich for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Tartu or Munich?

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 Munich 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife.

Munich

Munich is a high energy, multicultural, and economically thriving city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Tartu and Munich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Tartu or Munich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich than Tartu. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Munich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Tartu attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Munich is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also well known for The Nymphenburg Palace. Tartu is famous for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Tartu different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tartu
Munich

Munich is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tartu
Munich

Munich is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Munich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Munich

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for nightlife.

Munich has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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.

Is Tartu or Munich Better for Music?

Tartu
Munich

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Tartu is not a live music destination.

Munich has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Tartu is not a live music destination.


Is Tartu or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Munich

Tartu is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Tartu to see the historical old town. 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Munich?

Tartu
Munich

Munich is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Many people travel to Munich specifically to go shopping. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich Better for Families?

Tartu
Munich

Munich is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Munich. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.


Is Tartu or Munich Better for Couples?

Tartu
Munich

Munich is a great city for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

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 Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Munich

Munich is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Munich, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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.

Is Tartu or Munich Better for Students?

Tartu
Munich

For students, both Tartu and Munich are first-rate places to visit.

Tartu is a very popular university town 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.

Munich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.


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

Tartu
Munich

Munich is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

Public transit in Munich is top-notch. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Tartu or Munich a more walkable city?

Tartu
Munich

Tartu and Munich are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Munich is very walkable. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Munich or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Munich?

In either Tartu or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than Tartu because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Tartu, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Tartu or Munich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Munich 2-5

One day in Tartu or Munich?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Tartu. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Each neighborhood in Munich has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Tartu or Munich?

Tartu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Munich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tartu. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Munich is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Munich has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tartu or Munich?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the historical destination of Tartu. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the multicultural big city of Munich. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Munich 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 Munich is €148. 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 Munich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Munich 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Munich 178
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Munich

Looking for a hotel in Tartu or Munich? 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 Munich


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 Munich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Munich 19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Private transfer from Munich to Vienna: $930
  • Private transfer from Munich to Prague: $706
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer from/to Munich airport: $292
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 3h on Eagle's Nest: $284
  • Private Car from Munich to Prague: Transfer with 2h Sightseeing: $284
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing with Local Driver: $279
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 4h of Sightseeing: $272
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Nuremberg with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Salzburg to Munich Transfer: $267
  • Transfer Munich to Kaprun,Zell am See,Flachau,Stubai,Kitzbuhel,Innsbruck & Other: $259
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 2 hours for sightseeing: $257
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Passau, 2 Hour Stop in Dachau: $257

Is it cheaper to fly into Tartu or Munich?

Prices for flights to both Munich 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
    Munich 27
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

Typical Food Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Munich:


  • Bratwurst
    5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Munich.

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Food Tour Beer- 3 small beers & "Brotzeit" in GERMAN: $79
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265
  • Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner : $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tartu 16
    Munich 29
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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    24

Tours and Activities in Munich

Here are a few actual costs in Munich for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hours VIP Private Segway Tour: $91
  • 2-hour Private Walking Tour in Munich: $214
  • 2-hour city tour by bike in Munich to the hotspots of the Isar metropolis: $35
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $210
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $211
  • A Tour inside Munich's Justizpalast: $24
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $202
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $207
  • Andechs Monastery Beer Hike Food Experience Private Tour (departs Munich): $208
  • Art & Heritage: Private Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $202
  • Art & Heritage: Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $395
  • Bad Tölz Private Guided Walking Tour: $220

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tartu 16
    Munich 37

Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Munich:

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Max & Moritz: Interactive Wine Tasting Experience: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $288
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tartu and Munich, we can see that Munich 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 Munich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Munich 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 Munich Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Tartu and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Munich. Most visitors come to Tartu for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Munich because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tartu is cooler than Munich in the summer. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Munich. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tartu this time of the year. In the summer, Tartu often gets more sunshine than Munich. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets less rain in July than Munich. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tartu 17°C (62°F) 
    Munich 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Tartu because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

In the autumn, Tartu is much colder than Munich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tartu in October average around 6°C (43°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Munich during autumn. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tartu 6°C (43°F) 
    Munich 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Munich in the Winter?

Both Munich and Tartu during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Munich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Munich. It's quite cold in Tartu in the winter. In January, Tartu is generally much colder than Munich. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around -7°C (19°F), and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Tartu often gets more sunshine than Munich. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets less rain in January than Munich. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tartu -7°C (19°F) 
    Munich -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Munich in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Munich. Many travelers come to Tartu for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Munich in the spring for the activities around the city.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tartu. Tartu is much colder than Munich in the spring. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 5°C (41°F) in April, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Tartu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Munich during spring. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tartu 5°C (41°F) 
    Munich 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Munich and Tartu

Tartu Munich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -6°C (20°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 26 mm (1 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 6°C (43°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Dec -4°C (25°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)