A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Innsbruck vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Old Town, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Innsbruck or Barcelona?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Innsbruck and Barcelona 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.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a adventurous, high energy, and outdoorsy city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a colorful, laid-back, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Innsbruck and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Basilica Sagrada Familia
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Innsbruck or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Innsbruck. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Innsbruck attracts visitors for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Innsbruck is famous for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. Barcelona is famous for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia.

How is Innsbruck different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Skiing?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Innsbruck is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Barcelona is not a skiing destination.

Innsbruck is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. This city offers easy access to excellent skiing without having to travel too far. There are 9 ski resorts around town that make up the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck. Each resort has its own personality and style. You can reach the Seegrube mountain in about 20 minutes using the funicular and cable car.

Barcelona is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Innsbruck or Barcelona?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Barcelona is notable for its sights and museums. However, Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Innsbruck or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Both Innsbruck and Barcelona offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Innsbruck. The city is known for the hearty and filling food that is perfect for a cold winter day. There are cafes and restaurants around old town that offer traditional dishes including käsespätzle, wiener schnitzel, and apfelstrudel. If you're ready for something a little less heavy, there are a number of ethnic restaurants to choose from outside of the old town.

Barcelona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Barcelona is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Barcelona is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Innsbruck has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With its large student population and wide range of young visitors who enjoy high energy activities, there's plenty to do here when the sunsets. There are bars and dance clubs that stay active late into the night.


Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Music?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Barcelona is very popular for its live music scene. However, Innsbruck is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Innsbruck is not a live music destination.

Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Barcelona is a city with good options for the beache. However, Innsbruck is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Barcelona. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Innsbruck is not a beach destination.

Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Innsbruck is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Innsbruck is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is filled with charming restaurants and cafes as well as comfortable outdoor places to relax when the weather is nice. One of the most notable landmarks is the The Goldenes Dachl, or the "little golden roof", but the atmosphere around old town is what makes this place really special.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.


Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Hiking?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Innsbruck is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Innsbruck is a popular spot for hiking. The city is nestled in the Austrian mountains with many beautiful hikes just outside of town. There are hikes for all skill levels that offer spectacular views of some of the best scenery in Austria.

Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Innsbruck or Barcelona?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Barcelona is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Families?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Innsbruck is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Innsbruck is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a pleasant atmosphere with a charming old town and plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. There's also the popular Swarovski Crystal Worlds, which is fun for kids and adults alike. The Alpine Zoo and the city's many parks and playgrounds all make it a great stop if you're traveling with kids.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.


Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Innsbruck is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Innsbruck is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city's old town is filled with restaurants that make for great date nights. There are also many hikes, viewpoints, and activities that are perfect for a couple's getaway.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Barcelona is very popular for backpackers. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Innsbruck. The city has a number of hostels and affordable restaurants that make it a reasonable option for backpackers and budget travelers. Outdoor activities like nearby hiking are affordable ways to spend the day as well.

Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Students?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Barcelona is very popular for students. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Many students visit Innsbruck. The city's laid back vibe and wide range of universities make it a great place for students. There are cafes, bars, and many outdoor activities that students enjoy while they're in the area.


Is Innsbruck or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Both Innsbruck and Barcelona offer great public transit options.

Innsbruck has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you to most places easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Innsbruck or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Innsbruck
Barcelona

Innsbruck is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Innsbruck is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable, and if you stay anywhere nearby, it's easy to reach it on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Innsbruck Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Innsbruck?

How long in Innsbruck or Barcelona?

Both Innsbruck and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Innsbruck. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Innsbruck, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Innsbruck 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 Barcelona.


  • How many days in Innsbruck or Barcelona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Innsbruck 2-4 
    Barcelona 3-7

One day in Innsbruck or Barcelona?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint city of Innsbruck. 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.

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. 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 Innsbruck or Barcelona?

You'll find food and skiing around the scenic destination of Innsbruck. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Innsbruck or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the high energy city of Innsbruck. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. 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 Innsbruck or Barcelona?

Innsbruck 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.

Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Vienna, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Barcelona or Innsbruck?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Innsbruck is €129, while the average daily cost in Barcelona is €156. 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 Innsbruck and Barcelona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Innsbruck 76
    Barcelona 96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Innsbruck 152
    Barcelona 192
Compare Hotels in Innsbruck and Barcelona

Looking for a hotel in Innsbruck or Barcelona? 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 Innsbruck


Hotels in Barcelona


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: Innsbruck Hotel Prices and Barcelona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Innsbruck 15
    Barcelona 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • Innsbruck Airport(INN) to Innsbruck - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Innsbruck Swarovski Crystal Worlds Ticket and Transfer: $37
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN) to Garmisch-Partenkirchen-Arrival Transfer: $39
  • Innsbruck Private Transfer from Innsbruck Airport to City centre: $60
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport(INN) to Längenfeld/Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $64
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Soelden - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to St.Anton am Arlberg - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Kitzbühel/SkiWelt - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Innsbruck Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Round-Trip Transfer: $77
  • Innsbruck Airport INN to Alpbach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • St Anton am Arlberg to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $105

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Barcelona are as follows:


  • 10 Trip Metro Ticket
    7.80
  • Airport Bus
    5.00
  • Metro
    2.10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Barcelona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Barcelona:

  • One-Way Shared Transfer to/from Airport and City: $9.23
  • Roca Village Shopping Mall Transfers: $13
  • Private Transfer from Barcelona Airport to Barcelona Center Port : $18
  • Transfer departure Shuttle Barcelona City to Barcelona Port: $18
  • Transfer arrival Shuttle Barcelona Airport to Pineda de Mar: $23
  • Barcelona Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) Private Transfer: $25
  • Transfer to Montserrat Monastery from Barcelona: $27
  • Barcelona Private Airport Arrival Transfer: $28
  • Taxi - Cab - Private transfer from Barcelona City Centre to Barcelona airport: $29
  • Barcelona Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $30
  • Barcelona City to Cruise Port Private Transfer: $30
  • Private Transfer: El-Prat Airport (BCN) to Barcelona City Center: $31

Is it cheaper to fly into Innsbruck or Barcelona?

Prices for flights to both Barcelona and Innsbruck 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
    Innsbruck 40
    Barcelona 33
Typical Food Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of dining costs in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Soup for Lunch
    3.75
  • Pasta Lunch
    8.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Innsbruck

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Innsbruck.

  • Half-Day Food Tour of Tyrolean Cuisine: $149
  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $152

Typical Food Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of dining costs in Barcelona are as follows:


  • Hot Cocoa & Churro
    4.15
  • Sandwich
    1.70
  • Baguette & Horchata
    3.80
  • Tapas on the beach
    8.28
  • Gelatto
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Barcelona

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Barcelona.

  • Barcelona Guided Street Food Tour and Gothic Quarter Visit: $21
  • Barcelona Street Food Tour with Local Market & City Center Visit: $21
  • Walking Tour + Flamenco + Tapas Dinner (choose options): $27
  • Flamenco at El Patio Andaluz with Optional Dinner: $27
  • Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Tasty Barcelona Street Food Tour With Local Market Visit : $32
  • La Barceloneta: Tapas Food Tour: $38
  • Barcelona La Barceloneta Tapas Food Tour: $39
  • Barcelona Street Food Tour: Local Market & Gothic Quarter with Expert Guide: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas 5-Course Pairing Dinner: $60
  • Wine Tasting & Tapas Pairing Dinner: $61
  • Paella Cooking Experience and Wine in Barcelona: $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Innsbruck 19
    Barcelona 33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Schloss Ambras Entrance
    8.00
  • Botanical Garden Entrance Fee
    2.00

Tours and Activities in Innsbruck

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Innsbruck are as follows:

  • City Tower Entrance Ticket: $4.89
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bergisel Ski Jump Arena Entrance Ticket in Innsbruck: $11
  • Innsbruck Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Hungerburg Funicular Roundtrip Ticket: $13
  • Skip the Line: Ambras Castle in Innsbruck Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Hungerburg: Roundtrip Funicular Tickets from Innsbruck: $13
  • Innsbruck - "Welcome Tour"! The Guided City Tour for you.: $20
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $21
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $21
  • Swarovski Crystal Worlds Admission Ticket in Wattens: $25
  • Self-Guided 1,5-hour Tour of Exciting Stories, Photo Spots & Desserts: $30

Typical Entertainment Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Barcelona are as follows:


  • Picasso Walking Tour and Museum Pass
    42
  • Souvenir Gaudi Book
    8.55
  • Admission to Museo Picasso
    6.00

Tours and Activities in Barcelona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Barcelona are as follows:

  • Sagrada Familia: History&Legends Comedy Tour: $2.17
  • History & Legends Comedy Tour: Barcelona Gothic Quarter: $2.99
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Barcelona Free Tour: Gaudi Highlights and La Sagrada Famila: $3.26
  • Alternative Free Tour of the Raval: $3.26
  • Gothic Quarter Free Walking Tour in English: $3.26
  • Gaudí Free Tour in English: $3.26
  • Escape Game and Tour: $3.26
  • Sagrada Familia Comedy Tour: $3.29
  • Self-Guided Tours 150+ Captivating Audio Stories: $3.29
  • Barcelona Gaudi and Sagrada Familia Tour: $3.30
  • Gaudí & Sagrada Familia Free Tour in English : $3.30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Innsbruck 19
    Barcelona 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Barcelona

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Barcelona:

  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by KING - Nightlife Party Experience: $16
  • Estrella Damm Brewery Guided Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Pub Crawl with VIP Venue Access and Welcome Shots: $16
  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by King - Free shot with VIP Entry: $16
  • Night Pub Crawl Tour in Barcelona: $17
  • Estrella Damm Brewery in El Prat de Llobregat tour with Tasting: $17
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Tour with Tasting: $22
  • Pub Crawl Barcelona by EVOLVE The BEST night experience: $22
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Barcelona Guided Tour with Beer Tasting: $22
  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by KING - Free shot and VIP Entry: $22
  • Go out like a local, pub Crawl / Tour in Raval - Barcelona: $24
  • Barcelona Bar Crawl: $26


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

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


Which is Bigger, Innsbruck or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Innsbruck. When comparing the sizes of Innsbruck and Barcelona, 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.