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

Should you visit Utrecht or Strasbourg?

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

Should I visit Utrecht or Strasbourg? 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

This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a picturesque, impressive, and quaint city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Utrecht and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Utrecht or Strasbourg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Strasbourg. Although Utrecht and Strasbourg are both popular with visitors, Strasbourg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Strasbourg is more popular for its museums and food, while Utrecht is known for its nightlife and quaint atmosphere. Utrecht is popular for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. Strasbourg is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. It is also home to The Strasbourg Cathedral.

How is Utrecht different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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 Strasbourg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Strasbourg is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Strasbourg makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Utrecht or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Utrecht is a great for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Utrecht has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Utrecht or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

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

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, Strasbourg offers plenty to see. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Strasbourg?

Both Utrecht and Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is well-known for its shopping. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Utrecht or Strasbourg Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Utrecht or Strasbourg.

Utrecht is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly . Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Utrecht or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Utrecht and Strasbourg make for a great 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.

Strasbourg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Utrecht or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Utrecht is a great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Utrecht is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Utrecht or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Utrecht is a great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Strasbourg is a good to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Both Utrecht and Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg can get you to some places easily. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

Is Utrecht or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Utrecht is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Utrecht is a very easy to get around 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.

Strasbourg is a very walkable . One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Strasbourg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Utrecht and Strasbourg. In our opinion, Utrecht has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Utrecht than Strasbourg. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Utrecht, and 2-3 days is enough time in Strasbourg.

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

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

One day in Utrecht or Strasbourg?

With museums and nightlife around the historic of Utrecht, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Utrecht, one day is sufficent for most.

In Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Utrecht, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this .

In Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg has to offer.

Five days in Utrecht or Strasbourg?

Utrecht, a popular , is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

Utrecht is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Strasbourg. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Strasbourg?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Utrecht or Strasbourg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Strasbourg. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Strasbourg. In the summer, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Strasbourg. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in July than Strasbourg. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Utrecht or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

Both Strasbourg and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Utrecht for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Strasbourg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Utrecht is around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Utrecht in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during autumn. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Utrecht or Strasbourg in the Winter?

Both Strasbourg and Utrecht during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Utrecht in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Strasbourg can be very cold during winter. Utrecht can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Utrecht is generally around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 2°C (36°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Strasbourg. Utrecht gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in January than Strasbourg. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Utrecht or Strasbourg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Strasbourg. Most visitors come to Utrecht for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the natural beauty.

Utrecht is cooler than Strasbourg in the spring. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Utrecht usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during spring. Utrecht gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Utrecht