A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Windsor vs. Frankfurt for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Windsor or Frankfurt?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Frankfurt? 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 royal, traditional, and touristy town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a dynamic, diverse, and accessible city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor and Frankfurt: 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
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Windsor or Frankfurt?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Frankfurt. Although Windsor and Frankfurt are both popular with visitors, Frankfurt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Frankfurt is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Frankfurt and is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Frankfurt is popular for its financial industry, its popularity as a transportation hub, and its active nightlife. It is also home to The Old Town Center.

The Old Town Center
The Old Town Center

How is Windsor different from Frankfurt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Windsor
Frankfurt

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Windsor and Frankfurt.

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 Frankfurt specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many sights are concentrated in the old town center. Highlights include the Historical Museum and St. Nicholas Church. Elsewhere, make sure you check out Maintower, the Städel Museum, and the Museum District.


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

Windsor
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Frankfurt. In addition to a number of international restaurants, the city also has a strong regional cuisine. Some of the most interesting local dishes include Frankfurter Sausage, Rindwurst, Grüne Soße (an herb sauce), and Handkäse mit Musik (marinated sour milk cheese). Also make sure you sample the Apfelwein.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Is Windsor or Frankfurt Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Frankfurt

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

Frankfurt is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a vibrant city with many trendy clubs, cocktail bars, music venues, and more. You can enjoy techno, hip hop, and almost any style of music. There are also festivals, beer halls, and classic pubs.

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 Frankfurt Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Frankfurt

It's fun to wander around the good old towns in both Windsor and Frankfurt.

Many people head to Windsor to see the old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Frankfurt has an old town worth visiting. Many museums and cafes are concentrated in the old town area.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Frankfurt?

Windsor
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Frankfurt is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's a financial capital in Europe, and as such there are plenty of high end shopping opportunities. MyZeil is a major shopping mall in the city and Kleinmarkthalle is a more classic market. Popular shopping neighborhoods and streets include Goethestrasse, Sachsenhausen and Berger Strasse.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Frankfurt Better for Families?

Windsor
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Frankfurt is a very kid-friendly city. In town there's a zoo, a children’s museum, a math and technology museum (EXPERIMINTA), and a number of parks, natural areas, and playgrounds. If you're willing to head out of town then you can visit Taunus Wunderland, which is an amusement park with about 50 rides and attractions.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Windsor or Frankfurt Better for Couples?

Windsor
Frankfurt

Windsor is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Windsor makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Frankfurt is a nice destination for couples. The iconic spot of romance in the city is the Iron Footbridge, which is a traditional spot to attach a "love lock" and take a selfie. The city also offers river cruises, winery tours, and beautiful parks and natural areas.


Is Windsor or Frankfurt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Frankfurt

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

Frankfurt is a great city to visit for backpackers. You'll find a number of hostels in town. The city is also a major transportation hub so many backpackers pass through the area at some point on their trip through Germany.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Frankfurt Better for Students?

Windsor
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a world-class destination for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Frankfurt. The city offers prestigious universities and a world class education. The economy offers many internships and job opportunities and you'll find students from around the world studying here. Frankfurt is also well connected to the rest of Europe, so it's easy to explore the region.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Windsor
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Frankfurt can get you around easily. It is a huge transportation hub with a major international airport and a number of international train connections. Locally, the city has a subway, trams, commuter trains and buses.

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


Is Windsor or Frankfurt a more walkable city?

Windsor
Frankfurt

Windsor and Frankfurt both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Frankfurt is a very walkable destination. It has a compact city center that is generally pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Frankfurt or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Frankfurt?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt.


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

One day in Windsor or Frankfurt?

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Windsor has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Frankfurt is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Frankfurt?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Frankfurt is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Frankfurt has to offer.


Five days in Windsor or Frankfurt?

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Frankfurt is a great place to explore. 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 Frankfurt?

Windsor is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Frankfurt. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Frankfurt. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt is £105. 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 Frankfurt in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Frankfurt £49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Frankfurt £98
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Frankfurt

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Frankfurt? 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 Frankfurt


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Frankfurt £21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Frankfurt

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Frankfurt:


  • Car Rental
    £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Frankfurt

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Frankfurt Airport FRA to Frankfurt by business car: $54
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Frankfurt Airport FRA to Frankfurt by Luxury Vehicle: $63
  • Arrival Transfer: Frankfurt Airport FRA to Frankfurt in Van: $76
  • BaronFleet Frankfurt- Arrival & Departure Airport Transfers: $132
  • Departure Private Transfer: Frankfurt to Frankfurt Airport FRA by business car: $54
  • Departure Transfer: Frankfurt to Frankfurt Airport FRA by Van: $81
  • Departure Transfer: Frankfurt to Frankfurt Airport FRA in Car: $69
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to Baden-Baden Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $142
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to Frankfurt Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to Frankfurt Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to Wiesbaden Thermal Round-Trip Transfer: $55
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA): Private Transfer to Frankfurt: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Frankfurt?

Prices for flights to both Frankfurt 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
    Frankfurt £35
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Typical Food Prices in Frankfurt

For Frankfurt, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Soda
    £1.71
  • Bagel Sandwich and Latte
    £5.99
  • Ham & Cheese Sandwich and Coffee
    £5.13
  • Sandwich and Cola
    £5.99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Frankfurt

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

  • FOOD TOUR WITH 3-4 LOCAL INSIDER FOODSPOTS: $80
  • Eltz Castle Small-Group Tour from Frankfurt with Dinner: $281

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Frankfurt £31

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
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

Tours and Activities in Frankfurt

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Frankfurt Old Town": $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.28
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.81
  • Frankfurt Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.95
  • Struwwelpeter Museum Entry Ticket w/Audio Guide: $7.49
  • Old Town Smartphone Audio Tour: $7.99
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour by Smartphone: $7.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Historisches Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56
  • Frankfurt Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Frankfurt £26

Typical Alcohol Prices in Frankfurt

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Frankfurt:


  • Becks Beer
    £1.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Frankfurt

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

  • Night Pub Crawl through Alt-Sachsenhausen: $21
  • Enjoy the night with our Pub Tours: $32
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through Alt-Sachsenhausen: $34
  • Full Day Private Rhine Valley Wine Tour Experience from Frankfurt: $279
  • Frankfurt Wine Tasting Tour with a Wine Expert: $280
  • Frankfurt Wine Tasting Tour with a Wine Expert: $286
  • Guided Walk Tour With Apple Wine Tasting: $334
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513
  • Private Rhine Valley tour with river cruise & wine tasting: $748


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Frankfurt?

Frankfurt has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor and Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt?

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 Windsor or Frankfurt in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Frankfurt. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Frankfurt for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Windsor is around the same temperature as Frankfurt. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Frankfurt averages at about 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Frankfurt. In the summer, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Frankfurt. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Frankfurt receives 225 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in July than Frankfurt. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Frankfurt 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Frankfurt in the Autumn?

Both Frankfurt and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Frankfurt in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Frankfurt. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Frankfurt fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Frankfurt during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Frankfurt receives 103 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Windsor usually receives more rain than Frankfurt. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Frankfurt 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Frankfurt in the Winter?

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

Frankfurt can be very cold during winter. Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. Windsor is much warmer than Frankfurt in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Frankfurt fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Frankfurt. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Frankfurt receives 41 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets more rain in January than Frankfurt. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Frankfurt 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Frankfurt in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Frankfurt. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Frankfurt because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Windsor is around the same temperature as Frankfurt. Typically, the spring temperatures in Windsor in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Frankfurt averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Frankfurt during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Frankfurt receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives less rain than Frankfurt. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Frankfurt 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Frankfurt and Windsor

Windsor Frankfurt
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 1°C (34°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)