A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Wurzburg vs. Heidelberg for Old Town, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Wurzburg and Heidelberg can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Wurzburg

Wurzburg is a impressive, historical, and cultural city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a scenic, character-filled, and historic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Wurzburg and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Wurzburg than Heidelberg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Wurzburg is better known for its museums, while Heidelberg is more popular for its food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is more touristy than Wurzburg and is known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Wurzburg is well known for its wines, gardens, and charming old town. Also, Wurzburg is famous for Fortress Marienberg.

How is Wurzburg different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

Wurzburg is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Wurzburg has many famous sights for visitors. The Franconian city is known for its history and architecture. One of the most well know sights is the 18th-century Residenz palace. Other attractions in town include the Martin von Wagner Museum, the Würzburg Court Gardens, the Marienberg Fortress, and the Würzburg Cathedral & Museum.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Wurzburg or Heidelberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Heidelberg. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wurzburg. There are local restaurants that serve up regional specialties like bratwurst, weisswurst (white sausage), and Bavarian cream. There are also fine dining restaurants and cafes that cater specifically to tourists.

Is Wurzburg or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Wurzburg and Heidelberg.

The nightlife in Wurzburg has something for everybody. The town is in the heart of the Franconian wine district, so you'll find many wine bars, cellars, and wineries around town. For something a bit more active, there are some lively clubs and bars to choose from as well.

Heidelberg offers plenty to do in the evening. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Is Wurzburg or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

The historic old town of Heidelberg is revered around the world. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Wurzburg. The old town is best explored on foot and there are walking tours available that take you through many of the historical and architectural landmarks.


Is the Shopping Better in Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

If you're looking to go shopping, Wurzburg and Heidelberg both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Wurzburg. There are several shopping streets as well as some major department stores and local venues.

Heidelberg offers some nice shopping areas. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Wurzburg or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a town with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Wurzburg is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Heidelberg offers lots of family activities. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Wurzburg is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and cultural sights that can sometimes be challenging for young kids. To break up the history, head to some of the town's gardens and main square.

Is Wurzburg or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

Both Wurzburg and Heidelberg are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Wurzburg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With its beautiful architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful gardens, there is lot for a couple to explore together. You can wander through the fortress or soak up the beautiful gardens.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.


Is Wurzburg or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Heidelberg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Plenty of backpackers visit Wurzburg. There are a couple of hostels in town and it's easily accessible from Frankfurt by public transit. Many people also choose to visit Wurzbug as a day trip.

Is Wurzburg or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a town with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Wurzburg is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Wurzburg is not popular with students.

Is Wurzburg or Heidelberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

Wurzburg and Heidelberg both offer very good public transit to get you around.

Visitors to Wurzburg can move around easily with public transportation. The system includes trams and buses, including five tram lines that make loops around the city.

The public transit in Heidelberg can get you around easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.


Is Wurzburg or Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Wurzburg
Heidelberg

Wurzburg and Heidelberg are very good when it comes to walkability.

Wurzburg is very walkable. You can wander around town and take in many of the sights and attractions as part of a walking tour.

Heidelberg is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Wurzburg Worth Visiting? and Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Wurzburg?

How long in Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heidelberg than Wurzburg 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 Heidelberg.


  • How many days in Wurzburg or Heidelberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wurzburg 1-2 
    Heidelberg 1-3

One day in Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

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

The beautiful town of Heidelberg offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

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

Heidelberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Heidelberg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

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

Heidelberg is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

Wurzburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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.

Heidelberg is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Germany, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Heidelberg or Wurzburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Wurzburg is €120, while the average daily cost in Heidelberg is €142. 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 Wurzburg and Heidelberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wurzburg 79
    Heidelberg 93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wurzburg 158
    Heidelberg 186
Compare Hotels in Wurzburg and Heidelberg

Looking for a hotel in Wurzburg or Heidelberg? 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 Wurzburg


Hotels in Heidelberg


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: Wurzburg Hotel Prices and Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wurzburg 7.89
    Heidelberg 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $104
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23

Is it cheaper to fly into Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

Prices for flights to both Heidelberg and Wurzburg 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
    Wurzburg 35
    Heidelberg 37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $596

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wurzburg 8.94
    Heidelberg 11

Tours and Activities in Wurzburg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wurzburg.

  • Romantic Road Ticket from Würzburg(Main) to Rothenburg/Tauber (SUNDAY): $40
  • City tour through Würzburg with the Bimmelbahn: $12
  • Discover Würzburg Walking Tour with Typical Wine Gift: $21
  • Medieval Musical Tour of Rothenburg ob der Tauber: $22
  • Rothenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour in Würzburg: $7.59
  • WÜrzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Würzburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Wurzburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $251

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Heidelberg.

  • Esslingen fountain tour with picnic from a local's perspective: $38
  • 2 1/2h Guided Bicycle Tour Discover Heidelberg: $46
  • Alternative Heidelberg Tour.: $71
  • Amazing Schwetzingen Garden Tour: $237
  • Beer and Old Town Tour: $98
  • Bicycle Tour from Heidelberg to quaint Ladenburg.: $119
  • Culinary city tour in Heidelberg with delicious samples: $42
  • E.Bike Tours around Heidelberg: $152
  • Evening Heidelberg tour with historical night watchman: $17
  • Experience the Local Food around Mannheim: $64
  • Fascinating Heidelberg Sightseeing Walking Tour: $216
  • Food & Fables Tour of Heidelberg : $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wurzburg 12
    Heidelberg 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Wurzburg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wurzburg:

  • Private mulled wine tour in Würzburg: $54
  • Romantic Road Day Trip from Würzburg to Rothenburg/Tauber incl. Wine tasting : $97

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295


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

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


Which is Bigger, Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Wurzburg. When comparing the sizes of Wurzburg and Heidelberg, 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 Wurzburg or Heidelberg?

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 Wurzburg or Heidelberg in the Summer?

Both Heidelberg and Wurzburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wurzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wurzburg is generally around the same temperature as Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Wurzburg average around 20°C (68°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Heidelberg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wurzburg. Wurzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg during summer. Wurzburg gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Wurzburg usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Wurzburg gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wurzburg 20°C (68°F) 
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Wurzburg or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

Both Heidelberg and Wurzburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Wurzburg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Wurzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg. Wurzburg gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun.

Wurzburg usually gets less rain in October than Heidelberg. Wurzburg gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wurzburg 12°C (53°F) 
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Wurzburg or Heidelberg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Wurzburg and Heidelberg. Many visitors come to Wurzburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Heidelberg can be very cold during winter. Wurzburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Wurzburg is much colder than Heidelberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wurzburg in January average around 1°C (35°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Wurzburg usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during winter. Wurzburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wurzburg 1°C (35°F) 
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Wurzburg or Heidelberg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Wurzburg as well as Heidelberg. Most visitors come to Wurzburg for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the natural beauty.

In April, Wurzburg is generally around the same temperature as Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Wurzburg average around 11°C (51°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Wurzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg. Wurzburg gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Wurzburg usually gets less rain in April than Heidelberg. Wurzburg gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wurzburg 11°C (51°F) 
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Wurzburg

Wurzburg Heidelberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)