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

Should you visit Utrecht or Nuremberg?

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

Should I visit Utrecht or Nuremberg? 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

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nuremberg

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

Utrecht and Nuremberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
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 Nuremberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nuremberg than Utrecht. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nuremberg is very popular for its museums, while Utrecht attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Utrecht is famous for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. Nuremberg is famous for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. It is also well known for Nuremberg Castle.

How is Utrecht different from Nuremberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Utrecht
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Nuremberg that are not to be missed. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

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 Nuremberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Utrecht
Nuremberg

Foodies will find both Utrecht and Nuremberg both to be nice 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.

Nuremberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Utrecht or Nuremberg Better for Nightlife?

Utrecht
Nuremberg

Both Utrecht and Nuremberg are excellent 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.

Nuremberg has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

Is Utrecht or Nuremberg Better for its Old Town?

Utrecht
Nuremberg

It's fun to wander around the terrific old towns in both Utrecht and Nuremberg.

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, Nuremberg offers plenty to see. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.


Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Nuremberg?

Utrecht
Nuremberg

Both Utrecht and Nuremberg are excellent 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.

Nuremberg is well-known for its shopping. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

Is Utrecht or Nuremberg Better for Families?

Utrecht
Nuremberg

Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

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 Nuremberg Better for Couples?

Utrecht
Nuremberg

With fun activities for couples, both Utrecht and Nuremberg make for a excellent place to visit.

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.

Nuremberg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.


Is Utrecht or Nuremberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Utrecht
Nuremberg

Both Utrecht and Nuremberg are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Utrecht. 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.

Many backpackers visit Nuremberg. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

Is Utrecht or Nuremberg Better for Students?

Utrecht
Nuremberg

Utrecht and Nuremberg are both excellent destinations for students and younger travelers.

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

Nuremberg is very popular with students. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

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

Utrecht
Nuremberg

Both Utrecht and Nuremberg offer excellent 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 Nuremberg can get you to some places easily. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.


Is Utrecht or Nuremberg a more walkable city?

Utrecht
Nuremberg

Utrecht is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Utrecht on foot is easy. 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.

Nuremberg is a very walkable destination. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nuremberg or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Nuremberg?

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

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


  • How many days in Utrecht or Nuremberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Utrecht 1-3 
    Nuremberg 1-3

One day in Utrecht or Nuremberg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint of Utrecht. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Utrecht has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Nuremberg, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Utrecht or Nuremberg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Utrecht. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this has to offer. This offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Nuremberg, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nuremberg has to offer.


Five days in Utrecht or Nuremberg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the canal-filled of Utrecht. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg?

Utrecht is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nuremberg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nuremberg. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg is €103. 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 Nuremberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Utrecht 106
    Nuremberg 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Utrecht 212
    Nuremberg 122
Compare Hotels in Utrecht and Nuremberg

Looking for a hotel in Utrecht or Nuremberg? 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 Nuremberg


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 Nuremberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Utrecht 23
    Nuremberg 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $120
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $101
  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $76
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $191
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $204
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $215
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $243
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with Beer Museum : $246
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $251
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $257
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Salzburg with 2h of Sightseeing: $290

Is it cheaper to fly into Utrecht or Nuremberg?

Prices for flights to both Nuremberg 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
    Nuremberg 34

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.: $70
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $71
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $71
  • Guided Food Tour: $79

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nuremberg

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

  • 3-Hour St. Johannis Food Tour in German: $95
  • Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $95
  • Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $267

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Utrecht 44
    Nuremberg 10

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: $4.28
  • Utrecht Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $5.45
  • Highlights walking Tour in Utrecht with Audio and GPS Guide: $6.06
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • De Haar Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $7.49
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • 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 Nuremberg

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Southern Old Town": $3.20
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Northern Old Town": $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.28
  • Nuremberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.92
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Exploration Game & Guided Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg:Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.49
  • Self-guided Tour former Nazi Party Rally Grounds: $8.45
  • Self-guided tour around the Kaiserburg: $9.52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Utrecht 24
    Nuremberg 16

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 Nuremberg

Also in Nuremberg, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: $24
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Utrecht and Nuremberg, we can see that Utrecht is more expensive. And not only is Nuremberg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nuremberg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg.

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


Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Nuremberg?

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Utrecht. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht and Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg?

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 Nuremberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Nuremberg. Many visitors come to Utrecht in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Nuremberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Utrecht is cooler than Nuremberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Utrecht in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Nuremberg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nuremberg this time of the year. Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Nuremberg during summer. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Utrecht 17°C (62°F) 
    Nuremberg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Nuremberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Nuremberg. Most visitors come to Utrecht for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Utrecht is generally around the same temperature as Nuremberg. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 11°C (51°F), and Nuremberg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Nuremberg. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 122 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in October than Nuremberg. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Utrecht 11°C (51°F) 
    Nuremberg 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Nuremberg in the Winter?

Both Nuremberg and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nuremberg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nuremberg in the winter. The weather in Utrecht can be very cold. Utrecht is much warmer than Nuremberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Nuremberg fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Nuremberg during winter. Utrecht gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Nuremberg. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Utrecht 2°C (36°F) 
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Nuremberg in the Spring?

Both Nuremberg and Utrecht during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nuremberg for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Utrecht is cooler than Nuremberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Utrecht in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Nuremberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Utrecht often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg. Utrecht gets 156 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 166 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in April than Nuremberg. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Utrecht 8°C (46°F) 
    Nuremberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Nuremberg and Utrecht

Utrecht Nuremberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)