A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Helsinki vs. Austin for Food, Nightlife, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Helsinki or Austin?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Austin 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a active, nature-focused, and coastal city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Austin

Austin is a unconventional, lively, and entrepreneurial city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is beautiful destination to visit. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Helsinki and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Austin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Austin than Helsinki. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Austin is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its shopping and impressive beauty. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital.

How is Helsinki different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Helsinki or Austin?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Austin.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

Is the Food Better in Helsinki or Austin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Austin have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Austin just to party. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Helsinki is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Austin. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is Helsinki or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Austin?

Helsinki is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Helsinki is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Helsinki or Austin Better for Families?

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

Helsinki is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Helsinki or Austin Better for Couples?

Helsinki is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Helsinki or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Austin Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Austin are high quality destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Many students visit Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Is Helsinki or Austin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Helsinki is a great destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Helsinki is fairly effecient and thorough. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Helsinki or Austin a more walkable city?

Helsinki is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Helsinki is somewhat walkable. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Austin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Austin or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Austin?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Helsinki 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 Austin.

One day in Helsinki or Austin?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Helsinki. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Austin offers museums and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Helsinki or Austin?

Helsinki 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.

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

Five days in Helsinki or Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Austin 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 Helsinki or Austin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Helsinki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Austin 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 city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Helsinki and Austin, we can see that Helsinki 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. Even though Helsinki is in Europe and Austin is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Austin, 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 Helsinki or Austin?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Helsinki or Austin in the Summer?

Both Austin and Helsinki during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Austin because of the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Helsinki is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Helsinki. In the summer, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Austin. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in July than Austin. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Austin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Austin. The autumn months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

Helsinki is much colder than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Austin during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Austin. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Austin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Austin. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Austin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the winter. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Austin. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Austin. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Austin in the Spring?

Both Austin and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Austin in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Austin during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Austin. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Austin and Helsinki