A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Linz vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Linz or Barcelona?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Linz and Barcelona 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.

Linz

Linz is a historic, beautiful, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a laid-back, historic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Linz and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Linz or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Linz. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is more touristy than Linz and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Linz is famous for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries.

How is Linz different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Linz or Barcelona?

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Linz and Barcelona.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Linz. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Linz or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Barcelona. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Linz or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

People head to Barcelona just to party. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Linz or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Linz is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Linz is not a live music destination.

Is Linz or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a city with good options for the beache. However, Linz is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Barcelona. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Linz is not a beach destination.

Is Linz or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

Barcelona is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Linz or Barcelona?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Linz. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

Is Linz or Barcelona Better for Families?

Both Linz and Barcelona are nice to visit with kids.

Linz is a family-friendly place to visit. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Barcelona is a family-friendly town. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Linz or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Linz is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Linz is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Linz or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Plenty of backpackers visit Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Is Linz or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for students. However, Linz is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Linz is not popular with students.

Is Linz or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Barcelona can get you to some places easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

Is Linz or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Linz is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Linz is very walkable. The tourist areas are easy to explore on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable town. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Linz Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Linz?

How long in Linz or Barcelona?

Both Linz and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Linz. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Linz, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Linz 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 Barcelona.

One day in Linz or Barcelona?

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

Barcelona is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Linz or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful destination of Linz. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Linz or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic town of Linz. 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.

Barcelona is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Linz or Barcelona?

Linz 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.

Barcelona is a cultural city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Linz and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is Linz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Linz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Linz 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in Linz.

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

Which is Bigger, Linz or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Linz. When comparing the sizes of Linz and Barcelona, 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.

When is the best time to visit Linz or Barcelona?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Linz or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Linz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Linz because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In July, Linz is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Linz average around 20°C (68°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Linz. Linz usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Linz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Linz usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Linz gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Linz or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Linz during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Linz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Linz is much colder than Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Linz averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Linz often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Linz gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Linz usually gets less rain in October than Barcelona. Linz gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Linz or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Linz and Barcelona. Many travelers come to Linz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Linz. In the winter, Linz is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Linz in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Linz usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during winter. Linz gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Linz usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Linz gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Linz or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Linz as well as Barcelona. Many visitors come to Linz in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Linz is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Linz average around 11°C (51°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. In the spring, Linz often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Linz gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Linz usually gets more rain in April than Barcelona. Linz gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Linz