A Travel Price Comparison for Austria Kitzbuhel vs. Innsbruck for Skiing, Old Town, Hiking, and Food

Should you visit Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

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

Should I visit Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and world-class ski resort. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a high energy, outdoorsy, and mountainous 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. Visitors also love the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Kitzbuhel and Innsbruck: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kitzbuhel than Innsbruck, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kitzbuhel is better known for its skiing, museums, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Innsbruck is more popular for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Innsbruck is more touristy than Kitzbuhel and is popular for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. Kitzbuhel is well known for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is famous for The Kitzbüheler Horn.

How is Kitzbuhel different from Innsbruck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

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.


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

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

Kitzbuhel is a moderate ski resort for its sights and museums. However, Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

Kitzbuhel offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

Dining out at restaurants in both Kitzbuhel and Innsbruck can be an enjoyable experience.

Kitzbuhel has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

Dining out in Innsbruck is an experience not to be missed. 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 Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck Better for Nightlife?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

The vibe at night is excellent in both Kitzbuhel and Innsbruck.

Many people head to Kitzbuhel for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

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.


Is Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Innsbruck offers plenty to see. 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 is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Is Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel visitors will find world-class hiking trails. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

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 the Shopping Better in Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

Kitzbuhel is a ski resort with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kitzbuhel offers some nice shopping areas. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kitzbuhel is very family-friendly. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

Innsbruck is known to be 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.

Is Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck Better for Couples?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

With fun activities for couples, both Kitzbuhel and Innsbruck make for a excellent place to visit.

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

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.

Is Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

For backpackers, both Kitzbuhel and Innsbruck are excellent places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Kitzbuhel. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

Innsbruck is a very popular ski resort for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck Better for Students?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

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

Innsbruck is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

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

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

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

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

Kitzbuhel has a few public transit options. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

Is Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel
Innsbruck

Kitzbuhel and Innsbruck are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable ski resort. The town is small and compact enough to explore 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 Kitzbuhel Worth Visiting? and Is Innsbruck Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Innsbruck or Kitzbuhel?

How long in Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

It's fun to spend time in either Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Kitzbuhel, and 2-4 days is enough time in Innsbruck.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel.


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

One day in Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

Even though Kitzbuhel is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

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 Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

Kitzbuhel is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. 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 ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and skiing around the outdoorsy 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 Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the outdoorsy 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 Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Budget Tours to Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Austria, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Austria, and The Best Adventure Tours to Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Innsbruck or Kitzbuhel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kitzbuhel is €179, while the average daily cost in Innsbruck is €129. 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 Kitzbuhel and Innsbruck in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kitzbuhel 89
    Innsbruck 76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kitzbuhel 178
    Innsbruck 152
Compare Hotels in Kitzbuhel and Innsbruck

Looking for a hotel in Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel


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: Kitzbuhel Hotel Prices and Innsbruck Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 69
    Innsbruck 15

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: $197
  • Private transfer from Innsbruck airport: $196
  • Roundtrip Transfer to Innsbruck Airport, Kitzbühel, and SkiWelt: $130
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck City to Zell am see City: $112
  • St Anton am Arlberg to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $103
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN)to Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Round-Trip Transfer: $98
  • Innsbruck Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Round-Trip Transfer: $76
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to St.Anton am Arlberg - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Soelden - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Kitzbühel/SkiWelt - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

Prices for flights to both Innsbruck and Kitzbuhel 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
    Kitzbuhel 48
    Innsbruck 40

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 34
    Innsbruck 19

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: $35
  • 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
  • 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
  • Gin experience Tyrol: $119
  • Hungerburg: Roundtrip Funicular Tickets from Innsbruck: $13
  • Innsbruck - "Welcome Tour"! The Guided City Tour for you.: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kitzbuhel 11
    Innsbruck 19


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


Which is Bigger, Kitzbuhel or Innsbruck?

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