A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aalborg vs. Salzburg for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Aalborg or Salzburg?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Aalborg and Salzburg. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a local, historic, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a beautiful, musical, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Aalborg and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Aalborg or Salzburg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Salzburg than Aalborg. Salzburg is bigger than Aalborg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Salzburg is better known for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Aalborg is more popular for its nightlife and small town charm. Salzburg is more touristy than Aalborg and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Also, Salzburg is famous for The Salzburg Old Town. Aalborg is well known for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

The Salzburg Old Town
The Salzburg Old Town

How is Aalborg different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aalborg or Salzburg?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Salzburg. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

Aalborg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.


Is the Food Better in Aalborg or Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aalborg
Salzburg

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Aalborg and Salzburg.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Aalborg makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Salzburg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Aalborg or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Aalborg is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Aalborg offers plenty to do in the evening. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Aalborg or Salzburg Better for Music?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is renowned for live music. However, Aalborg is not a live music destination.

Salzburg is a world class music destination. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Aalborg is not a live music destination.


Is Aalborg or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Salzburg is one of the most recognized in the world. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Aalborg. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in Aalborg or Salzburg?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is renowned for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Is Aalborg or Salzburg Better for Families?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Salzburg is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Aalborg offers lots of family activities. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.


Is Aalborg or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is renowned for romance. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Salzburg is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Aalborg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.

Is Aalborg or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Salzburg. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Aalborg or Salzburg Better for Students?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is renowned for students. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Salzburg is a very popular place to visit for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

It's common for students to visit Aalborg. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.


Is Aalborg or Salzburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

While Aalborg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system around town.

Is Aalborg or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Aalborg
Salzburg

Salzburg is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Aalborg Worth Visiting? and Is Salzburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Aalborg?

How long in Aalborg or Salzburg?

In either Aalborg or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than Aalborg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aalborg, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg than Aalborg 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 Salzburg.


  • How many days in Aalborg or Salzburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aalborg 2-3 
    Salzburg 3-5

One day in Aalborg or Salzburg?

The town of Aalborg offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Aalborg or Salzburg?

Aalborg 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aalborg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Aalborg or Salzburg?

Aalborg 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.

Salzburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Salzburg has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Aalborg or Salzburg?

Aalborg is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Salzburg or Aalborg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Aalborg is $156, while the average daily cost in Salzburg is $166. 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 Aalborg and Salzburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aalborg $87
    Salzburg $98
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aalborg $174
    Salzburg $196
Compare Hotels in Aalborg and Salzburg

Looking for a hotel in Aalborg or Salzburg? 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 Aalborg


Hotels in Salzburg


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: Aalborg Hotel Prices and Salzburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aalborg $32
    Salzburg $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aalborg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aalborg:

  • Private Transfer from Aalborg Airport (AAL) to Skagen Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg City Hotels to Skagen Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Airport and City Transfers in Aalborg: $87
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg (AAL) Airport to City centre: $131
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg city centre to Aalborg airport: $131

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salzburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Salzburg:

  • Airport Transfer: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg by Luxury Car: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Business Car: $91
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Luxury Van: $93
  • Cesky Krumlov: Private One-Way Transfer to Salzburg: $629
  • Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Business Car: $91
  • Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Luxury Van: $93
  • From Salzburg to Munich Airport- Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $213
  • From Salzburg to Prague, Private Transfer with 2h of Sightseeing: $283
  • Kitzbuhel, Flachau, Transfer From Salzburg & Airport SZG: $288
  • Private Salzburg Airport luxury transfers to Salzburg city&Hotels: $65
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Salzburg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $278
  • Private Transfer From Salzburg To Innsbruck, English Speaking Driver : $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Aalborg or Salzburg?

Prices for flights to both Salzburg and Aalborg 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
    Aalborg $47
    Salzburg $44

Typical Food Prices in Salzburg

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


  • Lunch Salad
    $9.64

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Salzburg

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

  • Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Class Including Lunch: $59
  • Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg: $60
  • Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner: $81
  • Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $83
  • Mozart Concert with Dinner: $83
  • Dinner Cooking Class and Music: $84
  • Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg: $85
  • Dinner Cooking Class - Prezels, Dumplings, Apple Strudel & Music: $86
  • Dinner and Classical Concert at Mirabell Palace: $94
  • Cruise, Dinner & Fortress Concert: $106
  • Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Salzburg with River Cruise: $111
  • Best of Mozart Concert and GOLDEN VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $133

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aalborg $24
    Salzburg $32

Tours and Activities in Aalborg

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

  • Aalborg during WW2: Self-guided Audio Tour with StoryHunt: $14
  • 3-Hours Street Art Tour in Aalborg: $44
  • The best of Aalborg walking tour: $219
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $246
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $480

Tours and Activities in Salzburg

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Cathedral Entry Ticket with Audio Guide Option: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Salzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Sound of Music Sightseeing Walk with Audio Guide: $6.99
  • A taste of An audio tour through the birthplace of Mozart: $7.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $8.02
  • Mirabell Palace and Surroundings Audio Tour: $8.52
  • Salzburg Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Salzburg Cathedral: Guided Tour with Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aalborg $19
    Salzburg $28

Typical Alcohol Prices in Salzburg

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


  • Beer
    $3.96

Sample the Local Flavors in Salzburg

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

  • Stiegl Brewery Museum Entry Ticket & Beer Tasting: $16
  • Stiegl Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting: $24
  • Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar: $36
  • Private Austrian Wine Tasting with a Pro-Sommelière: $185


When comparing the travel costs between Aalborg and Salzburg, we can see that Salzburg 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 Aalborg Expensive? and Is Salzburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aalborg or Salzburg?

Salzburg has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Aalborg. When comparing the sizes of Aalborg and Salzburg, 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 Aalborg or Salzburg?

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 Aalborg or Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aalborg and Salzburg. Many visitors come to Aalborg in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Aalborg is generally cooler than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around 16°C (61°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In July, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Aalborg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aalborg 16°C (61°F) 
    Salzburg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Salzburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aalborg as well as Salzburg. Most visitors come to Aalborg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Aalborg is cooler than Salzburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aalborg averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Aalborg usually gets more rain in October than Salzburg. Aalborg gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aalborg 9°C (48°F) 
    Salzburg 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Aalborg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Salzburg in the winter. The weather in Aalborg can be very cold. In the winter, Aalborg is much colder than Salzburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aalborg in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Salzburg averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In January, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Aalborg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aalborg -1°C (31°F) 
    Salzburg -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Salzburg in the Spring?

Both Salzburg and Aalborg during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Salzburg for the natural beauty.

In April, Aalborg is generally much colder than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around 6°C (43°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Aalborg usually gets less rain in April than Salzburg. Aalborg gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aalborg 6°C (43°F) 
    Salzburg 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Aalborg

Aalborg Salzburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) -0°C (31°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb -0°C (31°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 2°C (36°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 93 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Nov 3°C (38°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)