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

Should you visit Windsor or Munich?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Munich? 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 traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Windsor and Munich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
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
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Windsor or Munich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich. Although Windsor and Munich are both popular with visitors, Munich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Munich is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Munich is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Windsor different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Windsor
Munich

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Windsor and Munich.

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 Munich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.


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

Windsor
Munich

Munich 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 Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Munich

Munich is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Munich just to party. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich Better for Music?

Windsor
Munich

Munich is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Windsor is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Munich The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Windsor is not a live music destination.


Is Windsor or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Munich

Windsor is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

Windsor offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Munich?

Windsor
Munich

Munich is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Munich make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Munich Better for Families?

Windsor
Munich

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

Munich is a very kid-friendly city. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

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 Munich Better for Couples?

Windsor
Munich

With fun activities for couples, both Windsor and Munich make for a very good place to visit.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Munich is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Windsor or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Munich

Munich is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Munich Better for Students?

Windsor
Munich

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

Many students frequent Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Windsor is not popular with students.


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

Windsor
Munich

Munich 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 Munich can get you around easily. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, 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 Munich a more walkable city?

Windsor
Munich

Windsor and Munich both are very good 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.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Munich or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Munich?

In either Windsor or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than Windsor because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Windsor or Munich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Munich 2-5

One day in Windsor or Munich?

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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

Windsor 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.

Because Munich 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 Munich has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Munich?

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

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Munich?

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Munich. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Munich 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 Munich 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 Windsor and Munich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Munich £76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Munich £152
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Munich

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Munich? 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 Munich


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 Munich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Munich £16

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
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

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


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    £1.97
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    £4.45
  • City transport day ticket
    £9.58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Munich Airport MUC to Munich in Luxury Car: $249
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Car: $74
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Van: $65
  • Arrival Transfer from Munich Train Station to Munich by Sedan: $60
  • Departure Private Transfer: Munich City to Munich Airport MUC in Luxury Car: $250
  • From Munich Airport to Nuremberg - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $193
  • From Munich Airport to Salzburg - Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $208
  • Guided Nymphenburg Palace Tour with Transfers & skip the line.: $235
  • Mercedes Benz V-Class Airport Transfers: $158
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Arber Resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Arrival Transfer: $71
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Munich - Arrival Private Transfer: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Munich?

Prices for flights to both Munich 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
    Munich £23
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 Munich

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


  • Bratwurst
    £4.28
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    £1.67

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Food Tour Beer- 3 small beers & "Brotzeit" in GERMAN: $79
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265
  • Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner : $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Munich £25

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    £3.42
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    £7.70
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    £12
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    £21

Tours and Activities in Munich

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Munich Old Town": $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Victuals Market Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.74
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.28
  • Guided tour through the Sudeten German Museum: $5.35
  • Escape Game and Tour: $5.35
  • From Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $5.35
  • Munich through the Centuries: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-guided Walking Tour to River Isar Landmarks: $6.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Interactive City Tour on Your Smartphone: $7.48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Munich £31

Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

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


  • Hofbrauhaus
    £10

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

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

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Max & Moritz: Interactive Wine Tasting Experience: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $288
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

Both Munich and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Munich in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Windsor is cooler than Munich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Munich averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Munich. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Munich during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Munich. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Munich 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Windsor in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Windsor is generally around the same temperature as Munich. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Munich. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets more rain in October than Munich. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Munich 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Munich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Munich. Most visitors come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Munich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Munich can be very cold. Windsor can be very cold during winter. Windsor is much warmer than Munich in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives more rain than Munich. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Munich -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Munich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Munich. The spring months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

In the spring, Windsor is cooler than Munich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Windsor in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Munich. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Munich. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Munich 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Munich and Windsor

Windsor Munich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)