A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Vienna for Attractions, Music, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Edinburgh or Vienna?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Vienna 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a gothic, ancient, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Edinburgh is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Edinburgh travel costs.

Vienna

Vienna is a ritzy, classical, and traditional city. Vienna is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Vienna travel costs.

Edinburgh and Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Vienna?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Vienna. While Vienna is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Edinburgh is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Vienna is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Edinburgh is well known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Vienna is well known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven.

How is Edinburgh different from Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Edinburgh or Vienna?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Vienna. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its theatre productions. However, Vienna is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Vienna is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Edinburgh or Vienna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vienna is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Vienna has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Edinburgh and Vienna.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

In Vienna you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

Both Edinburgh and Vienna have first-rate historic old towns worth visiting.

Edinburgh has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

The old town of Vienna is one of the most recognized in the world. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Vienna?

Vienna is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Vienna draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna More Beautiful?

Vienna is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Vienna is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city has beautiful Baroque architecture and a livable atmosphere.

With stunning beauty, Edinburgh attracts visitors from all around. It has a long history and a lot of architectural beauty. The weather may be the most challenging part of a visit to Edinburgh.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna Better for Families?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna Better for Couples?

Vienna is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Vienna is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Edinburgh is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Vienna is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna Better for Students?

Vienna is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Vienna is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Many students visit Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vienna is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Vienna can take you anywhere. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Edinburgh or Vienna a more walkable city?

Edinburgh and Vienna are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Getting around Vienna on foot is easy. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

For even more information, also check out Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Vienna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Vienna?

In either Edinburgh or Vienna, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Vienna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Vienna than Edinburgh. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Vienna 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Edinburgh or Vienna?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Edinburgh. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Vienna. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Vienna?

Edinburgh 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.

You'll find live music and food around the traditional destination of Vienna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Vienna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the ritzy city of Vienna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Edinburgh or Vienna?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the character-filled destination of Edinburgh. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vienna is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Vienna?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh and Vienna, 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 Edinburgh or Vienna?

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 Edinburgh or Vienna in the Summer?

Both Vienna and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Vienna because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Edinburgh is much colder than Vienna in the summer. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Vienna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Vienna. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Vienna during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Vienna. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Vienna in the Autumn?

Both Vienna and Edinburgh during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vienna this time of year.

In the autumn, Edinburgh is cooler than Vienna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Edinburgh in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Vienna averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Vienna. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 140 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in October than Vienna. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Vienna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Vienna. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vienna. It's quite cold in Edinburgh in the winter. In January, Edinburgh is generally much warmer than Vienna. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 3°C (38°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Vienna during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Vienna. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Vienna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Vienna. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Vienna in the spring for the natural beauty.

Edinburgh is much colder than Vienna in the spring. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Vienna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vienna. In the spring, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Vienna. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 202 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Vienna. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vienna and Edinburgh