A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kitzbuhel vs. Munich for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Kitzbuhel or Munich?

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

Should I visit Kitzbuhel or Munich? 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 world-class, breathtaking, and outdoorsy ski resort. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Munich

Munich is a high energy, multicultural, and economically thriving city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Kitzbuhel and Munich: 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
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Kitzbuhel or Munich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich. Although Kitzbuhel and Munich are both popular with visitors, Munich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Munich is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Kitzbuhel is known for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Kitzbuhel is popular for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. Munich is popular for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Kitzbuhel different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Munich Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Kitzbuhel is a must-visit destination for winter skiing. However, Munich is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Kitzbuhel is among the best in the world. 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.

Munich is not a skiing destination.


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

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Munich is great for its historical sights. However, Kitzbuhel is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Munich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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.

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

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Dining out at restaurants in both Kitzbuhel and Munich 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 Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Kitzbuhel or Munich Better for Nightlife?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Munich is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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


Is Kitzbuhel or Munich Better for Music?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Kitzbuhel is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Munich. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Kitzbuhel is not a live music destination.

Is Kitzbuhel or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Kitzbuhel is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Kitzbuhel to see the historical old town. 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is Kitzbuhel or Munich Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Kitzbuhel is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Munich is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kitzbuhel draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Munich is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Kitzbuhel or Munich?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Munich draws large crowds to its stores. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Munich Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kitzbuhel or Munich.

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.

Munich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Kitzbuhel or Munich Better for Couples?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

With fun activities for couples, both Kitzbuhel and Munich make for a very good 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.

Munich is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.


Is Kitzbuhel or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Munich is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular ski resort for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Kitzbuhel or Munich Better for Students?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

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

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Munich is an unbeatable place 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.

Visitors in Munich can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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 Munich a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel
Munich

Kitzbuhel and Munich are very good when it comes to walkability.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable ski resort. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Kitzbuhel Worth Visiting? and Is Munich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Munich or Kitzbuhel?

How long in Kitzbuhel or Munich?

In either Kitzbuhel or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than Munich because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Kitzbuhel, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

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

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


  • How many days in Kitzbuhel or Munich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kitzbuhel 4-7 
    Munich 2-5

One day in Kitzbuhel or Munich?

Kitzbuhel might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

People visit Munich because there is so much to do. 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 Munich?

Kitzbuhel is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

People visit Munich because there is so much to do. 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 Munich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kitzbuhel. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Munich 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Kitzbuhel or Munich?

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Munich 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 Budget Tours to Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Austria, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Munich 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 Munich is €148. 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 Munich in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Kitzbuhel or Munich? 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 Munich


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 Munich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 69
    Munich 19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Private transfer from Munich to Vienna: $930
  • Private transfer from Munich to Prague: $706
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer from/to Munich airport: $292
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 3h on Eagle's Nest: $284
  • Private Car from Munich to Prague: Transfer with 2h Sightseeing: $284
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing with Local Driver: $279
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 4h of Sightseeing: $272
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Munich to Nuremberg with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Salzburg to Munich Transfer: $267
  • Transfer Munich to Kaprun,Zell am See,Flachau,Stubai,Kitzbuhel,Innsbruck & Other: $259
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Salzburg with 2 hours for sightseeing: $257
  • Private Transfer from Munich to Passau, 2 Hour Stop in Dachau: $257

Is it cheaper to fly into Kitzbuhel or Munich?

Prices for flights to both Munich 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
    Munich 27

Typical Food Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Munich:


  • Bratwurst
    5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Food Tour Beer- 3 small beers & "Brotzeit" in GERMAN: $79
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265
  • Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner : $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 34
    Munich 29

Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    24

Tours and Activities in Munich

Here are a few actual costs in Munich for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hours VIP Private Segway Tour: $91
  • 2-hour Private Walking Tour in Munich: $214
  • 2-hour city tour by bike in Munich to the hotspots of the Isar metropolis: $35
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $210
  • 5 Top Churches in Munich Private Walking Tour : $211
  • A Tour inside Munich's Justizpalast: $24
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $202
  • Albert Einstein Private Walking Tour in Old Town Munich: $207
  • Andechs Monastery Beer Hike Food Experience Private Tour (departs Munich): $208
  • Art & Heritage: Private Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $202
  • Art & Heritage: Walking Tour of Bavarian National Museum: $395
  • Bad Tölz Private Guided Walking Tour: $220

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kitzbuhel 11
    Munich 37

Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Munich:

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Max & Moritz: Interactive Wine Tasting Experience: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $288
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kitzbuhel and Munich, we can see that Kitzbuhel is more expensive. And not only is Munich much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Munich would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Munich 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 Munich.

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


Which is Bigger, Kitzbuhel or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Kitzbuhel and Munich, 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.