A Travel Price Comparison for Austria Innsbruck vs. Bregenz for Old Town, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Innsbruck or Bregenz?

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 Bregenz 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 youthful , adventurous, and high energy city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Bregenz

Bregenz is a cultural, historic, and medieval city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Innsbruck and Bregenz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town


Is there more to do in Innsbruck or Bregenz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Innsbruck. Although Innsbruck and Bregenz are both popular with visitors, Innsbruck has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Innsbruck is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bregenz is known for its museums and shopping. Innsbruck is more touristy than Bregenz and is popular for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. It is also home to The Golden Roof in the old town. Bregenz is popular for its lakefront setting, its rich culture, and its fun-filled festivals.

The Golden Roof in the old town
The Golden Roof in the old town

How is Innsbruck different from Bregenz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Innsbruck or Bregenz Better for Skiing?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Innsbruck is a great city for skiing. However, Bregenz is not a skiing destination.

Innsbruck draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Bregenz is not a skiing destination.


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

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Bregenz is a city with good options for its sights and museums. However, Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

Bregenz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The sights are split between the Lower Town and the Upper Town. There's a long history with many historic buildings and museums that you can explore.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Both Innsbruck and Bregenz offer superb 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.

Bregenz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many restaurants around town that serve local dishes. Popular options include fish dishes, roasted venison, and baked rabbit. The food is hearty and often served with filling sauces. Cheese platters are also popular.

Is Innsbruck or Bregenz Better for Nightlife?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Innsbruck is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Bregenz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Innsbruck has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bregenz. You'll find bars and clubs around town as well as a lively beach bar by the lake.


Is Innsbruck or Bregenz Better for its Old Town?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Innsbruck is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Bregenz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Innsbruck has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Many visitors go to Bregenz to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with medieval buildings that each have a fascinating and sometimes dark story to tell.

Is Innsbruck or Bregenz Better for Hiking?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Innsbruck is a great city for hiking. However, Bregenz is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Innsbruck for the hiking trails. 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.

Bregenz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Innsbruck or Bregenz?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Bregenz is a city with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bregenz offers some nice shopping areas. A mix of international brands and local shops make shopping a fun and diverse experience. Wandering the streets and popping in the selection of retail stores is a fun way to spend the afternoon.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Innsbruck or Bregenz Better for Families?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Both Innsbruck and Bregenz are superb to visit with kids.

Innsbruck is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bregenz. Its location on Lake Constance means that there are a wide range of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. There are also a number of kid-friendly museums, zoos, and other places that will inspire young minds.

Is Innsbruck or Bregenz Better for Couples?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Both Innsbruck and Bregenz are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Bregenz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The lakefront setting offers a romantic atmosphere for couples. There's a lakefront promenade that you can stroll down as well as several great museums and some interesting historical sights.

Is Innsbruck or Bregenz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Innsbruck is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bregenz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bregenz. There are a few hostels around town that make this an easy stop off for backpackers and budget travelers.


Is Innsbruck or Bregenz Better for Students?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Innsbruck is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Bregenz is not popular with students.

Innsbruck is very popular with students. 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.

Bregenz is not popular with students.

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

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Innsbruck is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bregenz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The public transit in Innsbruck can get you to most places easily. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.

Bregenz has a few public transit options. There are five bus lines that run around town.

Is Innsbruck or Bregenz a more walkable city?

Innsbruck
Bregenz

Innsbruck is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Bregenz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Bregenz is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are walkable and easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Bregenz or Innsbruck?

How long in Innsbruck or Bregenz?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Innsbruck and Bregenz. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Innsbruck than in Bregenz. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Innsbruck, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bregenz.

Families should spend more time in Innsbruck than Bregenz. 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 Bregenz. 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 Innsbruck than Bregenz 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 Innsbruck.


  • How many days in Innsbruck or Bregenz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Innsbruck 2-4 
    Bregenz 1-3

One day in Innsbruck or Bregenz?

In Innsbruck, you'll find food and skiing. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bregenz. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bregenz has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Innsbruck or Bregenz?

In Innsbruck, you'll find skiing and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Innsbruck has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bregenz. 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.

Five days in Innsbruck or Bregenz?

Innsbruck 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the medieval city of Bregenz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Innsbruck or Bregenz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Innsbruck. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Innsbruck. 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.

Bregenz is a popular choice for travelers. 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.


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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Bregenz 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 Bregenz is €122. 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 Bregenz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Innsbruck 76
    Bregenz 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Innsbruck 152
    Bregenz 132
Compare Hotels in Innsbruck and Bregenz

Looking for a hotel in Innsbruck or Bregenz? 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 Bregenz


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 Bregenz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Innsbruck 15
    Bregenz 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Salzburg: $255
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Munich, English Speaking Driver: $196
  • Roundtrip Transfer to Innsbruck Airport, Kitzbühel, and SkiWelt: $130
  • Innsbruck Airport INN to St Anton am Arlberg RoundTrip Transfer: $130
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Silvretta Arena - Round-Trip Transfer: $130
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN)to Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Round-Trip Transfer: $98
  • Innsbruck Airport INN to Alpbach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Kitzbühel/SkiWelt - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Silvretta Arena Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Soelden - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to St.Anton am Arlberg - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Innsbruck or Bregenz?

Prices for flights to both Bregenz 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
    Bregenz 41
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: $146
  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $149

Typical Food Prices in Bregenz

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Bregenz:


  • Lunch from Market (for 2)
    6.62
  • Kebabs for Dinner (for 2)
    8.00
  • Chocolate
    1.70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Innsbruck 19
    Bregenz 14
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:

  • AREA 47 Water AREA Entrance Ticket: $34
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $21
  • Austrian Hidden Gem Tour: The Most Beautiful Villages: $190
  • Bergisel Ski Jump Arena Entrance Ticket in Innsbruck: $11
  • Bergisel SkiJump Area guided Tour incl Tickets: $85
  • Coffee Tasting & Roastery Tour in Innsbruck: $30
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $20
  • Cultural and culinary pleasure tour through Innsbruck's old town: $179
  • Full day small group Tour in Neuschwanstein from Innsbruck: $211
  • Full-Day small group tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes, Braies : $216
  • Hungerburg: Roundtrip Funicular Tickets from Innsbruck: $13
  • Innsbruck - "Welcome Tour"! The Guided City Tour for you.: $19

Tours and Activities in Bregenz

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

  • Bregenz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Surprise tour of Bregenz guided by a Local: $148
  • Bregenz - Historic Guided walking tour: $287
  • Bregenz - Historic Guided walking tour: $293
  • Magical Christmas Walking Tour: $765

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Innsbruck 19
    Bregenz 18


When comparing the travel costs between Innsbruck and Bregenz, we can see that Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck Expensive? and Is Bregenz Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Innsbruck or Bregenz?

Innsbruck has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bregenz. When comparing the sizes of Innsbruck and Bregenz, 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.