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

Should you visit York or Bamberg?

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

Should I visit York or Bamberg? 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.

York

York is a historic, medieval, and fanciful city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a historic, beautiful, and scenic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

York and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in York or Bamberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in York than Bamberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. York is more popular for its museums, food, and nightlife, while Bamberg is known for its impressive beauty. York is popular for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. It is also home to The Shambles. Bamberg is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

How is York different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

York
Bamberg

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to York can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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


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

York
Bamberg

York is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, York is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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

Is York or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

York
Bamberg

York is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

York offers plenty to do in the evening. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

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

Is York or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

York
Bamberg

It's fun to wander around the fantastic old towns in both York and Bamberg.

The historic old town of York is revered around the world. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

With a famous historical old-town, Bamberg offers plenty to see. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.


Is the Shopping Better in York or Bamberg?

York
Bamberg

Both York and Bamberg are good shopping destinations.

York is a great destination for shopping. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

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

Is York or Bamberg Better for Families?

York
Bamberg

York is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

York is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

Bamberg is a family-friendly city. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is York or Bamberg Better for Couples?

York
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for romance. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Bamberg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.


Is York or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York
Bamberg

York is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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

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

York
Bamberg

Both York and Bamberg offer good public transit options.

York has a few public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

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

Is York or Bamberg a more walkable city?

York
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.


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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or York?

How long in York or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both York and Bamberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in York than in Bamberg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for York, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bamberg.

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

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

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


  • How many days in York or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    York 2-4 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in York or Bamberg?

In York, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in York or Bamberg?

In York, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that York has to offer.

Bamberg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or Bamberg?

York 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the historic destination of Bamberg. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in York or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting York. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

The scenic town of Bamberg offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or York?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in York is £106, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is £109. 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 York and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    York £59
    Bamberg £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    York £118
    Bamberg £128
Compare Hotels in York and Bamberg

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

Hotels in York


Hotels in Bamberg


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


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    York £12
    Bamberg £12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from Hambleton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $163
  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $271
  • Private Transfer from York to Manchester Airport (MAN): $279

Is it cheaper to fly into York or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and York 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
    York £32
    Bamberg £35
Typical Food Prices in York

Some typical examples of dining costs in York are as follows:


  • Dinner
    £22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in York

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

  • Breakfast Food Tour in York: $51
  • Party Cruise with Welcome Drink, Dinner, and DJ Music: $56
  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $83

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    York £11
    Bamberg £14

Tours and Activities in York

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

  • York Guide - Everybody Hates a Tourist: $6.35
  • Tower Tour: $7.63
  • Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Discover York's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour of the City Walls: $11
  • York Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private York Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • York Cocoa Works Guided Tour and Tasting: $12
  • Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Original Harry Potter Locations Tour - York: $13
  • York Bird of Prey Centre Entry Ticket: $14
  • City Chronicles Historical Walking Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56
  • Bayreuth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided tour - World Heritage Fascination: $14
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $19
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $21
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    York £13
    Bamberg £17
Typical Alcohol Prices in York

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in York are as follows:


  • A Couple Beers
    £9.00

Sample the Local Flavors in York

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in York:

  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $32
  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience: $57

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

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


When comparing the travel costs between York and Bamberg, we can see that Bamberg is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, York or Bamberg?

York has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of York and Bamberg, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit York or Bamberg?

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 York or Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg and York are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to York for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

York is cooler than Bamberg in the summer. The daily temperature in York averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Bamberg. York usually receives less sunshine than Bamberg during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives less rain than Bamberg. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    York 16°C (62°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit York or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and York during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to York in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, York is around the same temperature as Bamberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in York in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Bamberg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, York often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

York usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bamberg. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    York 11°C (52°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit York or Bamberg in the Winter?

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

The weather in Bamberg can be very cold. York can be very cold during winter. In January, York is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in York average around 4°C (39°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

York usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives more rain than Bamberg. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    York 4°C (39°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit York or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to York as well as Bamberg. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

York is cooler than Bamberg in the spring. The daily temperature in York averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, York often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

York usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bamberg. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    York 8°C (46°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and York

York Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)