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

Should you visit Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a active, nature-focused, and coastal city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Vienna

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

Helsinki and Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Vienna?

You'll generally find more things to do in Vienna than Helsinki. Vienna is bigger than Helsinki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Vienna is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Also, Vienna is famous for The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Helsinki is well known for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Helsinki different from Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

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

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 Vienna Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Helsinki and Vienna.

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.

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 Helsinki or Vienna Better for Music?

Vienna 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 Vienna. 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.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is Helsinki or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Vienna is revered around 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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Vienna?

Vienna 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, 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 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 Vienna Better for Families?

Helsinki 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, 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.

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 Helsinki or Vienna Better for Couples?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki 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 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 Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki and Vienna are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Helsinki is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Vienna. 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 Helsinki or Vienna Better for Students?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki 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 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 Vienna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vienna is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Vienna can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

Helsinki offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Is Helsinki or Vienna a more walkable city?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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 Vienna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Vienna?

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

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

One day in Helsinki or Vienna?

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 beautiful city of Vienna 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 Vienna?

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.

Vienna 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vienna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Vienna?

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.

Vienna is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vienna, 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 Vienna?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the environmentally conscious 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.

Vienna 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

When comparing the travel costs between Helsinki and Vienna, we can see that Vienna 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 Vienna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Vienna?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Vienna in the Summer?

Both Vienna and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Helsinki for 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.

Helsinki is cooler than Vienna in the summer. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Vienna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Vienna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Helsinki. Helsinki usually receives more sunshine than Vienna during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Vienna. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Vienna in the Autumn?

Both Vienna and Helsinki during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Vienna this time of year.

In the autumn, Helsinki is much colder than Vienna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Helsinki in October average around 6°C (42°F), and Vienna averages at about 12°C (54°F).

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

Helsinki usually gets more rain in October than Vienna. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Vienna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Vienna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Helsinki 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 Helsinki in the winter. In January, Helsinki is generally much colder than Vienna. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around -6°C (21°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Vienna during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Vienna. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Vienna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Vienna. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Vienna in the spring for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. Helsinki is much colder than Vienna in the spring. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 3°C (37°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, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Vienna. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 202 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in April than Vienna. Helsinki gets 41 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 Helsinki