A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Graz vs. Leipzig for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Graz or Leipzig?

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

Should I visit Graz or Leipzig? 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.

Graz

Graz is a medieval, cultural, and historical city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a cultural, historic, and growing city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Graz and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Graz or Leipzig?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Graz than Leipzig. While Leipzig is larger than Graz, Graz has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Graz is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Leipzig attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Graz is more touristy than Leipzig and is known for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. It is also well known for The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower. Leipzig is famous for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

How is Graz different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Graz or Leipzig?

Graz
Leipzig

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Graz and Leipzig.

Graz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

Many visitors head to Leipzig specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.


Is the Food Better in Graz or Leipzig? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Graz
Leipzig

Graz is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Leipzig 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 Graz. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Graz or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Leipzig

Graz is great for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Graz for the nightlife scene. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Graz or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Leipzig

Graz is terrific for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Graz has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Leipzig?

Graz
Leipzig

If you're looking to go shopping, Graz and Leipzig both offer plenty of very good spots.

Graz is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Leipzig. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

Is Graz or Leipzig Better for Families?

Graz
Leipzig

Graz is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Graz is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Graz or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Graz
Leipzig

Graz is great for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Graz is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.


Is Graz or Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Leipzig

For backpackers, both Graz and Leipzig are nice places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Graz. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Leipzig is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Graz or Leipzig Better for Students?

Graz
Leipzig

Graz is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.

Graz is a great city to visit as a student. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

Is Graz or Leipzig Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Graz
Leipzig

Graz and Leipzig both offer very good public transit to get you around.

The public transit in Graz can get you around easily. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

Leipzig offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.


Is Graz or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Graz
Leipzig

Graz is terrific for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Graz is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Graz Worth Visiting? and Is Leipzig Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Graz?

How long in Graz or Leipzig?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Graz and Leipzig. In our opinion, Graz has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Graz than Leipzig. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Leipzig.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Graz than Leipzig 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 Graz.


  • How many days in Graz or Leipzig? Ideal Length of Stay
    Graz 2-3 
    Leipzig 1-3

One day in Graz or Leipzig?

In Graz, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Leipzig. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Graz or Leipzig?

In Graz, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Graz has to offer.

Leipzig is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Graz or Leipzig?

Graz 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 museums and nightlife around the growing destination of Leipzig. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Graz or Leipzig?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Graz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Graz. 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 historic city of Leipzig offers nightlife and food. 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Leipzig or Graz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Graz is €112, while the average daily cost in Leipzig 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 Graz and Leipzig in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Leipzig 91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Leipzig 182
Compare Hotels in Graz and Leipzig

Looking for a hotel in Graz or Leipzig? 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 Graz


Hotels in Leipzig


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: Graz Hotel Prices and Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Leipzig 27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

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

  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

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

  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93
  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Graz or Leipzig?

Prices for flights to both Leipzig and Graz 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
    Graz 32
    Leipzig 53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

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

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Graz 13
    Leipzig 36

Tours and Activities in Graz

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

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

Tours and Activities in Leipzig

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

  • 1.5-Hour Historical Tour of Leipzig with Costumed Guide: $21
  • 2 hours Leipzig exclusive: Private city tour with Panorama Tower: $217
  • Big city tour Leipzig Hop on hop off: $20
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig Südvorstadt - independent discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig city center - independent city tour: $44
  • City tour on foot, by S-Bahn and tram: $24
  • Combo Tour in Guided City Tour & City Sightseeing: $21
  • Corpses, Leprosy, Lucifer 75-minute Tour at the Old Cemetery: $19
  • From Day Tour to the Green Belt: $631
  • From Markkleeberg: Full-Day Guided Cycling Tour by the Lakes: $48
  • Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig: $19
  • Gruseltour A Haunted Guided Tour: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Graz 16
    Leipzig 26


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

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


Which is Bigger, Graz or Leipzig?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Graz. When comparing the sizes of Graz and Leipzig, 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 Graz or Leipzig?

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 Graz or Leipzig in the Summer?

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

In July, Graz is generally a little warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 23°C (73°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Leipzig. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Graz. Graz usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Graz. In July, Graz usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Graz or Leipzig in the Autumn?

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

Graz is a little warmer than Leipzig in the autumn. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Leipzig fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Graz often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 107 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets more rain in October than Leipzig. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Graz or Leipzig in the Winter?

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

The weather in Leipzig can be very cold. Graz can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Graz is a little warmer than Leipzig. Typically, the winter temperatures in Graz in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Leipzig averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Graz usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during winter. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Graz usually receives less rain than Leipzig. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Graz 1°C (34°F) 
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Graz or Leipzig in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Graz as well as Leipzig. The spring months attract visitors to Graz because of the natural beauty.

In April, Graz is generally a little warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 13°C (55°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Graz often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Leipzig. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Graz

Graz Leipzig
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)