A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Utrecht vs. Bremen for Old Town, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Utrecht or Bremen?

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

Should I visit Utrecht or Bremen? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Utrecht

With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bremen

Bremen is a historic, beautiful, and colorful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Utrecht and Bremen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Utrecht or Bremen?

Both Bremen and Utrecht have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Utrecht is better known for its quaint atmosphere, while Bremen is more popular for its museums. Utrecht is more touristy than Bremen and is known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. Bremen is well known for its beautiful historic center and its role as a cultural hub in Germany.

How is Utrecht different from Bremen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Utrecht or Bremen?

Utrecht
Bremen

Bremen is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its museums and history.

Bremen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's landmarks are located around the famous Marktplatz. You can tour the Bremen Town Hall or wander around the Medieval Schnoor Quarter. Also make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Peter.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.


Is the Food Better in Utrecht or Bremen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Utrecht
Bremen

Foodies will find both Utrecht and Bremen both to be notable destinations.

Utrecht offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Bremen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The food is hearty and filling with many meat heavy dishes. Vegetarians may struggle to find local options. Traditional regional dishes include Kohl und Pinkel (kale and sausage), Labskaus (meat and stew), and fried smelt.

Is Utrecht or Bremen Better for Nightlife?

Utrecht
Bremen

Both Utrecht and Bremen are great when it comes to partying.

Utrecht offers plenty to do in the evening. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

Bremen has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a variety of evening activities including cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and fine dining restaurants. Head to the Viertel District for some of the most lively clubs.

Is Utrecht or Bremen Better for its Old Town?

Utrecht
Bremen

It's fun to wander around the world-class old towns in both Utrecht and Bremen.

The historic old town of Utrecht is revered around the world. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

With a famous historical old-town, Bremen offers plenty to see. The old town is beautiful with its charming streets and beautiful buildings. There's a main market square which is filled with many landmarks and tourist sights.


Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Bremen?

Utrecht
Bremen

Both Utrecht and Bremen are great shopping destinations.

Utrecht is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Bremen is well-known for its shopping. The city offers a mix of historic shopping areas and large shopping malls. Some of the biggest shopping malls include Karstadt Bremen, Lloyd Passage, and Weserpark.

Is Utrecht or Bremen Better for Families?

Utrecht
Bremen

Bremen is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Bremen is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will appreciate a Sunday visit to the Bremen Town Musicians play which performs popular fairy tales. If the season isn't right, there are many other kid-friendly activities around town including Bürgerpark, the puppet theater, or visiting the beach at Café Sand. Popular museums in town for kids include Universum and Bremer Geschichtenhaus.

Utrecht is a family-friendly . There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Is Utrecht or Bremen Better for Couples?

Utrecht
Bremen

Utrecht is notable for couples. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Utrecht is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

Bremen is a nice destination for couples. From its beautiful old town to its many great restaurants and shopping streets, couples will enjoy a romantic trip away in this beautiful city.


Is Utrecht or Bremen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Utrecht
Bremen

Utrecht is notable for backpackers. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Utrecht is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bremen. Backpackers love the old town and lively atmosphere. There are enough tourists around that you'll find a decent social scene and the atmosphere makes for a great visit.

Is Utrecht or Bremen Better for Students?

Utrecht
Bremen

Utrecht is notable for students. However, Bremen is not popular with students.

Utrecht is very popular with students. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Bremen is not popular with students.

Is Utrecht or Bremen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Utrecht
Bremen

Both Utrecht and Bremen offer great public transit options.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Utrecht. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

Public transit in Bremen can get you to some places easily. The city has both trams and buses that offer easy accessibility to most of the tourist areas.


Is Utrecht or Bremen a more walkable city?

Utrecht
Bremen

Utrecht and Bremen both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Utrecht on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Bremen. It's one of the most walkable cities in Europe.

For even more information, also check out Is Utrecht Worth Visiting? and Is Bremen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bremen or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Bremen?

It's fun to spend time in either Utrecht or Bremen. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bremen due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Utrecht, and 2-4 days is enough time in Bremen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Utrecht than Bremen 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 Utrecht.


  • How many days in Utrecht or Bremen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Utrecht 1-3 
    Bremen 2-4

One day in Utrecht or Bremen?

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

In Bremen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Utrecht or Bremen?

Utrecht 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.

In Bremen, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Bremen has to offer.


Five days in Utrecht or Bremen?

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

Bremen 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.

A week in Utrecht or Bremen?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Utrecht. This 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bremen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bremen. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands, The Best Music Tours in Germany, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bremen or Utrecht?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Utrecht is €189, while the average daily cost in Bremen is €147. 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 Utrecht and Bremen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Utrecht 106
    Bremen 76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Utrecht 212
    Bremen 152
Compare Hotels in Utrecht and Bremen

Looking for a hotel in Utrecht or Bremen? 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 Utrecht


Hotels in Bremen


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: Utrecht Hotel Prices and Bremen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Utrecht 23
    Bremen 45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $101
  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $119

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bremen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bremen:

  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM): $65
  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Cruise Port to Hamburg Hotels: $65
  • Private Transfer From Bremen City to Hanover City: $94
  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $175
  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg With a 2 Hour Stop: $232

Is it cheaper to fly into Utrecht or Bremen?

Prices for flights to both Bremen and Utrecht 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
    Utrecht 58
    Bremen 36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Utrecht

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

  • City Boat Tour & Balkan Restaurant Lunch OR Dinner: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $60
  • Vegan Food Tour like a local. Eat, walk, enjoy.: $69
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $71
  • Guided Food Tour: $79

Typical Food Prices in Bremen

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bremen are as follows:


  • Croissant & Cappacino
    3.90
  • Fish and Chips
    3.20
  • Pizza and Cola
    7.00
  • Chinese Food Lunch
    8.00
  • Vietnamese Soup
    5.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee
    8.00
  • Pastry and Coffee
    4.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Utrecht 44
    Bremen 34

Tours and Activities in Utrecht

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

  • Hoge Woerd Museum Entry Ticket with Audio Tour: $4.26
  • Utrecht Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $5.43
  • Highlights walking Tour in Utrecht with Audio and GPS Guide: $6.04
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.39
  • De Haar Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $7.46
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.32
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $11
  • Lofen Palace Time Travel with Entry Ticket & Guide: $12
  • Guided Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $13
  • Dom Tower Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Bremen

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

  • Exploration Game & City Tour on your Phone: $6.38
  • Bremen City Exploration Private Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.51
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $7.41
  • Scavenger Hunt and City Centre Walking Tour: $8.42
  • Public Tour of the Town Hall in English: $9.59
  • Guided Historical Walking Tour in Bremen : $11
  • Night Watchman Guided Tour for Children (in German): $13
  • Guided Tour of City Center: $13
  • Walking Tour of Historic Schnoor District: $13
  • Übersee Museum Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Walking Tour in German with Night Guard: $16
  • Experience Bremen by bike: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Utrecht 24
    Bremen 34

Sample the Local Flavors in Utrecht

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:

  • Utrecht Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Utrecht Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Bremen

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

  • 3-Hour Beck's Brewery Tour: $22


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

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


Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Bremen?

Bremen has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Utrecht. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht and Bremen, 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 Utrecht or Bremen?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Utrecht or Bremen in the Summer?

Both Bremen and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bremen for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Utrecht is generally around the same temperature as Bremen. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 17°C (62°F), and Bremen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen during summer. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Bremen. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Utrecht 17°C (62°F) 
    Bremen 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Bremen in the Autumn?

Both Bremen and Utrecht during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Utrecht for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bremen in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Utrecht is around the same temperature as Bremen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Bremen fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Utrecht often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 100 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in October than Bremen. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Utrecht 11°C (51°F) 
    Bremen 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Bremen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Bremen. Many visitors come to Utrecht in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bremen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bremen can be very cold during winter. Utrecht can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Utrecht is much warmer than Bremen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Utrecht in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Bremen averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen during winter. Utrecht gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 41 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Bremen. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Utrecht 2°C (36°F) 
    Bremen 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Bremen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Bremen. Most visitors come to Utrecht for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Bremen because of the natural beauty.

In April, Utrecht is generally around the same temperature as Bremen. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 8°C (46°F), and Bremen fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Utrecht often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen. Utrecht gets 156 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 153 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bremen. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Utrecht 8°C (46°F) 
    Bremen 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Bremen and Utrecht

Utrecht Bremen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (33°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)