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

Should you visit Windsor or Bratislava?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Bratislava? 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Bratislava

Bratislava is a relaxed, historical, and under-rated city. 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.

Windsor and Bratislava: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Windsor or Bratislava?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bratislava. Although Windsor and Bratislava are popular destinations, Bratislava has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bratislava is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Windsor attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Bratislava and is known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Bratislava is famous for its local beer, charming old town, and scenic mountain setting. It is also well known for The Bratislava Castle.

How is Windsor different from Bratislava?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Bratislava?

Windsor
Bratislava

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Windsor and Bratislava.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

Many visitors head to Bratislava specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Despite its small size, the city is packed with interesting sights and attractions. A highlight of a visit is exploring the Bratislava Castle. Other notable sights include Michael's Gate, the Slovak National Theatre, Grassalkovich Palace, and Primate's Palace & Hall of Mirrors.


Is the Food Better in Windsor or Bratislava? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Bratislava

Foodies will find both Windsor and Bratislava both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Bratislava is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Slovakian food is hearty and uses a few staple ingredients like cheese and dumplings. The dishes are warm and filling on a cool day, so it's nice to step into a cozy restaurant and rest after a day of exploring. Popular local dishes include bryndzové halušky (sheep's cheese gnocchi), kapustnica (cabbage soup), and goulash.

Is Windsor or Bratislava Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Bratislava

Bratislava is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Bratislava is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has grown in popularity as a center for nightlife with many people visiting from nearby Vienna. There are a growing number of stag and hen parties around town, but you'll also find sophisticated wine bars and a refined social scene. Many of the city's clubs are found in old town around Michalská, Obchodná and Ventúrska streets as well as Hviezdoslavovo and SNP squares.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Bratislava Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Bratislava

Bratislava is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bratislava. The old town is filled with diverse architecture as well as traditional and upscale restaurants.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Bratislava?

Windsor
Bratislava

Bratislava is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bratislava offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping has come to life here, with three large shopping malls and many shopping streets where you'll find local boutiques. The city has both global brands as well as more traditional shops where you can buy local items. Popular things to purchase while you're in town include traditional clothing, wooden crosses, corn husk dolls, and local alcohol such as slivovica.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Bratislava Better for Families?

Windsor
Bratislava

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Bratislava.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Bratislava offers lots of family activities. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the lack of tourist crowds when compared to other European cities, even during school holidays. You can explore the city and enjoy a laid back vibe without the chaos of navigating through tour groups and large crowds. There's also a nice old town as well as gardens, playgrounds, palaces, and the Bratislava Castle.

Is Windsor or Bratislava Better for Couples?

Windsor
Bratislava

Windsor is notable for romance. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Windsor is a very popular place to visit for couples. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Bratislava makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that enjoy stepping away from tourist crowds will appreciate this relaxed city. There is the beautiful Janko Kráľ Park as well as the Bratislava Castle that you can explore. It's enjoyable to simply walk around the old town and soak up the atmosphere as well. There are also many great restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy a night out.


Is Windsor or Bratislava Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Bratislava

Bratislava is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Bratislava is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city offers an affordable and unique alternative to some of the larger and well known cities that are nearby. There are a couple of hostels and some affordable hotels that will help you keep your expenses down.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Bratislava Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Windsor
Bratislava

Bratislava is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Bratislava can get you around easily. There are trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Bratislava a more walkable city?

Windsor
Bratislava

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

Getting around Bratislava on foot is easy. One of the best ways to experience the city is to walk around. The old town is also a large pedestrian zone.

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.


For even more information, also check out Is Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Bratislava Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bratislava or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Bratislava?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bratislava than Windsor 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 Bratislava.


  • How many days in Windsor or Bratislava? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Bratislava 1-3

One day in Windsor or Bratislava?

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Windsor, one day is sufficent for most.

In Bratislava, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Windsor or Bratislava?

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Bratislava, 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 Bratislava has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Bratislava?

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

Bratislava 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 Windsor or Bratislava?

Windsor 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 Bratislava. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bratislava. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Slovakia, and The Best River Cruises in Slovakia.


Which place is cheaper, Bratislava or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Bratislava is £104. 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 Windsor and Bratislava in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Bratislava £42
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Bratislava £84
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Bratislava

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Bratislava? 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 Windsor


Hotels in Bratislava


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Bratislava Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Bratislava £22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bratislava

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bratislava:

  • Bratislava - Budapest Transfer: $199
  • Bratislava Airport (BTS) to Bojnice Resorts - Round Trip Transfer: $131
  • Bratislava Airport BTS to Piestany Round Trip Private Transfer: $94
  • Bratislava Airport to Bojnice Resorts - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava Airport to Turčianske Teplice Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava-Budapest One-Way Sightseeing Transfer: $295
  • Airport to Hotel Private Transfer Service: $24
  • Private Direct Transfer From Bratislava to Vienna City Center: $87
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava City to Vienna City: $98
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest with 2h of Sightseeing: $202
  • Private transfer from Bratislava to Vienna: $263
  • Vienna Airport VIE to Bojnice Resorts Round Trip Private Transfer: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Bratislava?

Prices for flights to both Bratislava and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Bratislava £39
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bratislava

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

  • Local Beer & Food Tour: $142
  • Bratislava Traditional Food Tour: $169

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Bratislava £26

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

Tours and Activities in Bratislava

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Top experience walking tour with bonus and castle: $4.36
  • Bratislava Old Town In App Audio Tour (ENG): $5.43
  • City & Castle Tour - Introduction to Bratislava: $5.45
  • Historic City Centre Self-guided Tour: $6.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Bratislava Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Gallery Multium Entrance Ticket: $6.95
  • Gallery Multium Entrance Ticket: $7.10
  • The jewels of Bratislava a Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Bratislava £16

Sample the Local Flavors in Bratislava

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bratislava:

  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier in Bratislava: $14
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier: $15
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $16
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $21
  • Bratislava 3-Hour Wine Tasting: $104
  • Devin Castle Tour with Currant Wine Tasting: $144
  • Devin Castle Tour with Wine Tasting: $158
  • Bratislava Food and Wine Tour: $180
  • Little Carpathian Wine Tour: $201
  • 6-Hour Carpathian Wine Tour and Tasting: $209


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Bratislava?

Bratislava has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor and Bratislava, 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 Windsor or Bratislava?

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 Windsor or Bratislava in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Bratislava. The summer months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bratislava this time of year.

In July, Windsor is generally cooler than Bratislava. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 18°C (64°F), and Bratislava fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bratislava this time of the year. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Bratislava during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Bratislava receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Bratislava. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Bratislava 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Bratislava in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Bratislava. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bratislava for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Windsor is around the same temperature as Bratislava in the autumn. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Bratislava fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Bratislava. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 140 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets more rain in October than Bratislava. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Bratislava 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Bratislava in the Winter?

Both Bratislava and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bratislava in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bratislava can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Windsor. In the winter, Windsor is much warmer than Bratislava. Typically, the winter temperatures in Windsor in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Bratislava averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Bratislava during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Bratislava receives 65 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives more rain than Bratislava. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Bratislava 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Bratislava in the Spring?

Both Bratislava and Windsor during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Windsor in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bratislava for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Windsor is generally cooler than Bratislava. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 9°C (48°F), and Bratislava fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Bratislava, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Bratislava. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 202 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Bratislava. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Bratislava 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bratislava and Windsor

Windsor Bratislava
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (38°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)