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

Should you visit Helsinki or Salzburg?

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 Salzburg 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a historic, beautiful, and musical city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Helsinki and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Salzburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Salzburg than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Salzburg is more touristy than Helsinki and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also home to The Salzburg Old Town. Helsinki is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Helsinki different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Salzburg 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 Salzburg?

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

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 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.

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

Salzburg is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

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 Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Helsinki and Salzburg.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Helsinki. 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.

Salzburg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Helsinki or Salzburg Better for Music?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. 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.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is Helsinki or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Salzburg is revered around 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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Salzburg?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Salzburg draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Helsinki. 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.

Is Helsinki or Salzburg Better for Families?

Both Helsinki and Salzburg are high quality to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Helsinki is very family-friendly. 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.

Salzburg is known to be 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.

Is Helsinki or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Salzburg is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

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.

Is Helsinki or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg 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 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 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 Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Salzburg is a very popular city 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.

Many students visit 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.

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

Visitors will find high quality public transit in both Helsinki and Salzburg.

The public transit in Helsinki can get you around easily. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Salzburg offers a very effecient public transportation network. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Helsinki or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Salzburg is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Salzburg?

In either Helsinki or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than Helsinki because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

Families should spend more time in Salzburg than Helsinki. 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 Helsinki. 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 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 Salzburg.

One day in Helsinki or Salzburg?

The beautiful city of Helsinki 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.

The beautiful city of Salzburg offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Salzburg?

Helsinki 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 Helsinki, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Salzburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Salzburg?

Helsinki 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Salzburg, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Salzburg?

Helsinki 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.

Salzburg is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

When comparing the travel costs between Helsinki 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 Helsinki Expensive? and Is Salzburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Salzburg?

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

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 Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Salzburg. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Helsinki is cooler than Salzburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Helsinki in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Salzburg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Helsinki this time of the year. In the summer, Helsinki often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in July than Salzburg. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Salzburg in the Autumn?

Both Salzburg and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the shopping 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 Salzburg this time of year.

In October, Helsinki is generally much colder than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 6°C (42°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Salzburg during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Helsinki during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Salzburg. It's quite cold in Helsinki in the winter. Helsinki is much colder than Salzburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around -6°C (21°F) in January, and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Salzburg. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Salzburg. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Salzburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Salzburg. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. In the spring, Helsinki is much colder than Salzburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Helsinki in April average around 3°C (37°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Helsinki usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Helsinki