A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Innsbruck for Old Town, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Lucerne or Innsbruck?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Innsbruck. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a historic, vibrant, and scenic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Lucerne is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Lucerne travel costs.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a youthful , adventurous, and high energy city. Many visitors also come to Innsbruck because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and nightlife. See Innsbruck travel costs.

Lucerne and Innsbruck: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Innsbruck?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Innsbruck. While Innsbruck is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is more popular for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Innsbruck is known for its skiing, food, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Innsbruck is more touristy than Lucerne and is popular for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also home to The Chapel Bridge.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Innsbruck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lucerne or Innsbruck Better for Skiing?

Innsbruck is great for skiing. However, Lucerne is not a skiing destination.

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.

Lucerne is not a skiing destination.

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

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Innsbruck is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Innsbruck Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is very good in both Lucerne and Innsbruck.

Many people head to Lucerne for the nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

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 Lucerne or Innsbruck Better for its Old Town?

Innsbruck is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Innsbruck has a world-famous historical 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Is Lucerne or Innsbruck Better for Hiking?

Innsbruck is great for hiking. However, Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Innsbruck for the hiking trails. 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.

Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Innsbruck?

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

Lucerne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lucerne or Innsbruck More Beautiful?

Innsbruck is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Innsbruck because of it's amazing beauty. The city itself is very picturesque, and it's also surrounded by plenty of natural beauty that offers stunning hikes and many skiing opportunities.

Lucerne is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. From the historic bridge to the lake's blue waters, the city offers impressive views and a rich history.

Is Lucerne or Innsbruck Better for Families?

Innsbruck is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Innsbruck. 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Lucerne or Innsbruck Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Innsbruck both very good destinations for a couple.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne or Innsbruck Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Innsbruck is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Innsbruck. 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Innsbruck Better for Students?

Innsbruck is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Innsbruck. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Lucerne or Innsbruck a more walkable city?

Innsbruck is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Innsbruck or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Innsbruck?

It's fun to spend time in either Lucerne 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 Lucerne, and 2-4 days is enough time in Innsbruck.

Families should spend more time in Innsbruck than Lucerne. 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 Lucerne. 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 Lucerne 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.

One day in Lucerne or Innsbruck?

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

In Innsbruck, you'll find food and skiing. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Lucerne or Innsbruck?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

In Innsbruck, you'll find skiing and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Innsbruck has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Innsbruck?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Lucerne. 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.

Innsbruck is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Innsbruck?

Lucerne 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Innsbruck. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Innsbruck. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Christmas Market Tours in Austria, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Innsbruck?

Innsbruck has a larger population, and is about 97% larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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.