A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vienna vs. Bamberg for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Vienna or Bamberg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Bamberg, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Vienna

Vienna is a musical, ritzy, and classical city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a beautiful, scenic, and storybook town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Vienna and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Vienna or Bamberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vienna than Bamberg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Vienna is more touristy than Bamberg and is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. It is also well known for The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Bamberg is famous for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace
The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Vienna different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Vienna
Bamberg

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Vienna can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


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

Vienna
Bamberg

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Vienna makes for a great culinary experience. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Vienna or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Vienna. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

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

Is Vienna or Bamberg Better for Music?

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Bamberg is not a live music destination.

Vienna is a world class music destination. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Bamberg is not a live music destination.


Is Vienna or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna and Bamberg both have amazing historical old towns that attract visitors.

With a famous historical old-town, Vienna offers plenty to see. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

The rich history of Bamberg can be explored in its historical center. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Bamberg?

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Vienna is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Vienna or Bamberg Better for Families?

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna and Bamberg are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Vienna is a family-friendly city. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bamberg. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.


Is Vienna or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna and Bamberg are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Vienna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

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

Is Vienna or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna and Bamberg are both nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Vienna. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

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

Is Vienna or Bamberg Better for Students?

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Vienna is a great destination for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Bamberg is not popular with students.


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

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Vienna is top-notch. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

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

Is Vienna or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Vienna
Bamberg

Vienna and Bamberg are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

Getting around Bamberg on foot is easy. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vienna and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vienna than in Bamberg. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vienna than Bamberg if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Vienna.


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

One day in Vienna or Bamberg?

In Vienna, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

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


A weekend in Vienna or Bamberg?

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

Bamberg 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.

Five days in Vienna or Bamberg?

Vienna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Vienna or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vienna. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Vienna. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Bamberg. This 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Vienna?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Vienna is €151, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is €127. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Vienna and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vienna 94
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vienna 188
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Vienna and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Vienna or Bamberg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Vienna


Hotels in Bamberg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Vienna Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vienna 19
    Bamberg 14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Vienna

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Vienna:


  • Bus to Airport
    30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vienna

Also for Vienna, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bratislava: Bus Transfer to/from Vienna: $9.52
  • Bratislava: Bus Transfer to/from Vienna Airport: $12
  • CAT Transfer: Vienna Airport – Wien Mitte: $16
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Viena Airport(VIE)-Viena City : $35
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Viena City - Viena Airport (VIE): $35
  • Private Transfer from Vienna Airport (VIE) to Vienna City Center: $44
  • Private Transfer from Vienna City Center to Vienna Airport (VIE): $44
  • Private One Way Transfer from Vienna Hotels to Vienna Airport: $44
  • Vienna International Airport (VIE) to Vienna Downtown - Arrival Private Transfer: $45
  • Vienna Downtown to Vienna Intl Airport (VIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $45
  • Private Transfer from Vienna Airport to Hotel in Vienna: $49
  • Transfer in Private Minivan Viena Airport (VIE)-Viena City : $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Vienna or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Vienna 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
    Vienna 33
    Bamberg 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Vienna

For Vienna, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $28
  • Performance Of The Lipizzans At Spanish Riding School: $43
  • Naschmarkt Food Tour: $64
  • Vienna Naschmarket Food Tour: $65
  • Traditional Vienna Tasting Dinner With Folk Music: $68
  • Traditional Vienna Tasting Dinner with Folk Music: $70
  • Naschmarkt Guided Food Tour: $74
  • Vienna Evening Sightseeing Cruise With Music and Dinner: $74
  • 3-Course Evening Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Traditional Dinner Show at the Wiener Rathauskeller: $84
  • Kursalon New Year's Day Concert with optional Dinner: $87
  • Schnitzel cooking class with Nicole: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vienna 38
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Vienna

For Vienna, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Escape Game and Tour: $3.21
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $4.81
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Cultural Heart of the City Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Top of Vienna in One Day: An English Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.87
  • Detective Trail Mystery tour for the whole family: $8.02
  • MAK - Geymüllerschlössel Entry Ticket: $8.02
  • Walking Tour of the MuseumsQuartier with Guide: $8.56
  • Vienna Cathedral District Audio Tour (EN) (NO Ticket): $8.80
  • Walking Around Hofburg Palace In-App Audio Tour (EN): $8.80
  • Capuchins Crypt Entrance Ticket: $9.09

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vienna 17
    Bamberg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Vienna

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

  • Pub Crawl Vienna: $16
  • Vienna Nights Pub Crawl: $16
  • City Center Pub Crawl: $27
  • Local Pub Crawl Vienna: $27
  • Wine Tasting at Traditional Cellar: $34
  • Guided Wine Tasting in a Private Wine Cellar: $39
  • Viennese Wine Tasting in a Private Hidden Wine Cellar: $39
  • Wine Tasting at Schönbrunn Palace: $48
  • Austrian Wine Tasting Experience: $63
  • Vienna Historical Highlight City Tour + Wine Tasting: $74
  • Skip-the-Line Schönbrunn Palace Entry & Wine Tasting: $82
  • Wine Tasting E-Bike Tour: $91

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Vienna or Bamberg?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Vienna and Bamberg, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Vienna or Bamberg?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Vienna or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vienna as well as Bamberg. The summer months attract visitors to Vienna because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

In July, Vienna is generally a little warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 23°C (73°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bamberg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vienna this time of the year. In the summer, Vienna often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bamberg. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vienna 23°C (73°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Vienna or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and Vienna are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vienna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Vienna is a little warmer than Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during autumn. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vienna usually receives less rain than Bamberg. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Vienna 12°C (54°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Vienna or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Vienna during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bamberg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Vienna. In the winter, Vienna is much warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vienna in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Vienna often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in January than Bamberg. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vienna 2°C (36°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Vienna or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vienna and Bamberg. Many visitors come to Vienna in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Vienna is generally a little warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 13°C (55°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during spring. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vienna usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vienna 13°C (55°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Vienna

Vienna Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)