A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inverness vs. Innsbruck for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Inverness or Innsbruck?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Innsbruck can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a cultural, traditional, and local city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a scenic, youthful , and adventurous city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Inverness and Innsbruck: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to Loch Ness
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
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
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Inverness or Innsbruck?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Innsbruck than Inverness, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Innsbruck is better known for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Inverness is more popular for its museums, shopping, and small town charm. Innsbruck is more touristy than Inverness and is known for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. Also, Innsbruck is famous for The Golden Roof in the old town. Inverness is well known for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness.

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

How is Inverness different from Innsbruck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Inverness or Innsbruck Better for Skiing?

Inverness
Innsbruck

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

People head to Innsbruck specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and 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.

Inverness is not a skiing destination.


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

Inverness
Innsbruck

Inverness 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 Inverness. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Inverness
Innsbruck

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Inverness and Innsbruck.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Inverness. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Innsbruck has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Inverness or Innsbruck Better for Nightlife?

Inverness
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Innsbruck offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.


Is Inverness or Innsbruck Better for its Old Town?

Inverness
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is terrific for its old town. However, Inverness 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.

Inverness does not have a historic old town.

Is Inverness or Innsbruck Better for Hiking?

Inverness
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness 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.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Innsbruck?

Inverness
Innsbruck

Inverness is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Inverness is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Inverness or Innsbruck Better for Families?

Inverness
Innsbruck

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

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.

Inverness is a family-friendly city. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Is Inverness or Innsbruck Better for Couples?

Inverness
Innsbruck

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

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.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.

Is Inverness or Innsbruck Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inverness
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.


Is Inverness or Innsbruck Better for Students?

Inverness
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a well-known place for students. However, Inverness 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.

Inverness is not popular with students.

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

Inverness
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

Is Inverness or Innsbruck a more walkable city?

Inverness
Innsbruck

Inverness and Innsbruck both are superb when exploring on foot.

Inverness is a very walkable city. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

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.


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

Should I spend more time in Innsbruck or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Innsbruck?

It's fun to spend time in either Inverness or Innsbruck. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Innsbruck due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Inverness, and 2-4 days is enough time in Innsbruck.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Innsbruck than Inverness 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 Inverness or Innsbruck? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inverness 1-3 
    Innsbruck 2-4

One day in Inverness or Innsbruck?

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

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.

A weekend in Inverness or Innsbruck?

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

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.

Five days in Inverness or Innsbruck?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local city of Inverness. 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.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the scenic 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.


A week in Inverness or Innsbruck?

Inverness 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg.


Which place is cheaper, Innsbruck or Inverness?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inverness is £168, while the average daily cost in Innsbruck is £110. 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 Inverness and Innsbruck in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inverness £91
    Innsbruck £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inverness £182
    Innsbruck £130
Compare Hotels in Inverness and Innsbruck

Looking for a hotel in Inverness or Innsbruck? 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 Inverness


Hotels in Innsbruck


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: Inverness Hotel Prices and Innsbruck Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inverness £33
    Innsbruck £13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • Innsbruck to Innsbruck Airport (INN) - Departure Private Transfer: $16
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN) to Innsbruck - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Innsbruck Swarovski Crystal Worlds Ticket and Transfer: $36
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Alpbach: Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Mayrhofen - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Transfer Innsbruck Airport INN to Saalbach-Hinterglemm: $49
  • Innsbruck Private Transfer from Innsbruck Airport to City centre: $60
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $63
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Soelden - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Kitzbühel/SkiWelt - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Silvretta Arena Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Innsbruck Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Round-Trip Transfer: $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Inverness or Innsbruck?

Prices for flights to both Innsbruck and Inverness 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
    Inverness £49
    Innsbruck £34

Typical Food Prices in Innsbruck

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


  • Soup for Lunch
    £3.21
  • Pasta Lunch
    £7.02

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: $148
  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Inverness £44
    Innsbruck £16

Tours and Activities in Inverness

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

  • City Discovery App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $15
  • Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm): $15
  • Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $17
  • SEA LIFE Loch Lomond General Admission Ticket: $20
  • Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass: $25
  • Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views: $27
  • Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch: $38
  • Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!: $38
  • Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness: $39
  • Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!: $44
  • Puffin Tour: $57

Typical Entertainment Prices in Innsbruck

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


  • Schloss Ambras Entrance
    £6.85
  • Botanical Garden Entrance Fee
    £1.71

Tours and Activities in Innsbruck

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

  • City Tower Entrance Ticket: $4.81
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • 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: $12
  • Hungerburg: Roundtrip Funicular Tickets from Innsbruck: $13
  • Skip the Line: Ambras Castle in Innsbruck Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Tickets for Schloss Ambras: $15
  • Innsbruck - "Welcome Tour" by Per Pedes. Guided City Tour.: $19
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $20
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Inverness £23
    Innsbruck £17

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

Also in Inverness, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,124


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


Which is Bigger, Inverness or Innsbruck?

Innsbruck has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Inverness. When comparing the sizes of Inverness and Innsbruck, 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.