A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Innsbruck vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Skiing, Hiking, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 high energy, outdoorsy, and mountainous city. Innsbruck is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Innsbruck travel costs.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a spectacular, awe-inspiring, and epic mountain town. You'll find world class beauty in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc as well. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food. See Chamonix-Mont-Blanc travel costs.

Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: 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 for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mont Blanc


Is there more to do in Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Innsbruck, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is better known for its skiing, resorts, and hiking, while Innsbruck is more popular for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Innsbruck is well known for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is famous for Mont Blanc.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Innsbruck different from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for snow skiing. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for skiing and snowboarding.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

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.


Is the Food Better in Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Both Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc offer very good 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Evening events are very good in both Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

Innsbruck has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its resorts. However, Innsbruck is not a resort destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world class resort vacation destination. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Innsbruck is not a resort destination.


Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for its Old Town?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Innsbruck is terrific for its old town. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Chamonix-Mont-Blanc visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Innsbruck. 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.

Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc More Beautiful?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.

You'll find world class beauty in Innsbruck as well. The city itself is very picturesque, and it's also surrounded by plenty of natural beauty that offers stunning hikes and many skiing opportunities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The spectacular French Alps offer stunning and dramatic beauty.


Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Both Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are very good 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great mountain town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

Innsbruck makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Both Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are very good destinations for backpackers.

Innsbruck is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.


Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Students?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Innsbruck is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its public transit. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

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.

Is Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Innsbruck
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable destination. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Innsbruck Worth Visiting? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Innsbruck?

How long in Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.


  • How many days in Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Ideal Length of Stay
    Innsbruck 2-4 
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7

One day in Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Innsbruck, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find nightlife and food around the mountain town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people visit Innsbruck for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Innsbruck, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find food and skiing around the epic destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

The beautiful destination of Innsbruck offers nightlife and food. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the epic mountain town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this mountain town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this mountain town has to offer.


A week in Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Innsbruck. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Innsbruck?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Innsbruck Prices
    Austria Prices
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Prices
    France Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Innsbruck 129
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 235

The average daily cost (per person) in Innsbruck is €129, while the average daily cost in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is €235. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Innsbruck 76
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Innsbruck 152
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 180
Compare Hotels in Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Looking for a hotel in Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc


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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Innsbruck 15
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • Roundtrip Transfer to Innsbruck Airport, Kitzbühel, and SkiWelt: $132
  • Private Transfer Innsbruck Airport INN to Saalbach-Hinterglemm: $49
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Salzburg: $281
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Munich, English Speaking Driver: $199
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck City to Zell am see City: $113
  • Innsbruck to Innsbruck Airport (INN) - Departure Private Transfer: $21
  • Innsbruck Swarovski Crystal Worlds Ticket and Transfer: $37
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport(INN) to Längenfeld/Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $64
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN)to Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Round-Trip Transfer: $100
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN) to Innsbruck - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $42
  • Innsbruck Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Round-Trip Transfer: $77

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chamonix to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $71
  • Courmayeur to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $88
  • Chamonix (FR) to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $132
  • Courmayeur to Milan Malpensa Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $138
  • Chamonix-Morzine-Avoriaz to Geneva Airport GVA-Departure Transfer: $148
  • Courmayeur, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $154
  • Courmayeur Ski Club to Linate Airport (LIN) - Departure Transfer: $163
  • Private Departure Transfer from Chamonix to Milan Airport: $171
  • Private Transfer Chamonix and Morzine to Milan Malpensa Airport: $231

Is it cheaper to fly into Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Prices for flights to both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 48
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.

  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $152

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Food Tour in Chamonix: $451

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Innsbruck 19
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 80
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:

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Innsbruck: $190
  • AREA 47 Water AREA Entrance Ticket: $42
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $21
  • Austrian Hidden Gem Tour: The Most Beautiful Villages: $192
  • Bergisel Ski Jump Arena Entrance Ticket in Innsbruck: $11
  • Coffee Tasting & Roastery Tour in Innsbruck: $31
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $21
  • Cultural and culinary pleasure tour through Innsbruck's old town: $182
  • Full day small group Tour in Neuschwanstein from Innsbruck: $225
  • Full-Day small group tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes, Braies : $219
  • Fun & mobile puzzle rally tour through Innsbruck: $20
  • Gin experience Tyrol: $121

Tours and Activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Luxury Private Concierge - Chamonix Bespoke Experience: $55
  • Monte Bianco Skyway Experience : $145
  • eBike Tour around Chamonix Mont-Blanc : $148
  • Fly in Paragliding! Paragliding experience over Chamonix!: $186
  • Live an eBike Mountain Bike Experience in the Heart of Chamonix Mont-Blanc: $200
  • Private Walking Tour At Chamonix Alpine Heritage: $203
  • Chamonix: Private Guided Walking Tour: $313
  • Altitude experience above Chamonix by eBike: $328
  • From Geneva: Chamonix Mont-Blanc Private Guided Tour: $439
  • Chamonix: highlight tour Aiguille du Midi and Mer de Glace: $473
  • Geneva: Private Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour: $568

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Innsbruck 19
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 9.64

Sample the Local Flavors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver - 10 hours: $924


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, we can see that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Innsbruck or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Innsbruck has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Innsbruck and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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.