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

Should you visit Lucerne or Vienna?

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 Vienna. 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 cultural, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Vienna

Vienna is a classical, traditional, and artistic city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Lucerne and Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Vienna?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lucerne than Vienna. While Vienna is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lucerne is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Vienna is known for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Vienna is more touristy than Lucerne and is known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. 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 Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Vienna and Lucerne.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Vienna offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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

Vienna 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.

Vienna has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

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 Vienna Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Lucerne has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Lucerne or Vienna Better for Music?

Vienna is very popular for its music scene. However, Lucerne is not a live music destination.

Vienna has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Lucerne is not a live music destination.

Is Lucerne or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

Vienna 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.

Vienna has a world-famous historical area. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

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 the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Vienna?

Vienna is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Vienna specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Is Lucerne or Vienna Better for Families?

Both Lucerne and Vienna are good family-friendly destinations.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. 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.

Vienna is a family-friendly place to visit. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Lucerne or Vienna Better for Couples?

Vienna is very popular for couples. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Vienna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Lucerne or Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Vienna. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

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 Vienna Better for Students?

Vienna is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

Vienna is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

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 Vienna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vienna is very popular 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.

Vienna has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

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

Is Lucerne or Vienna a more walkable city?

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

Vienna is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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 Vienna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Vienna?

In either Lucerne or Vienna, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vienna than Lucerne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 2-5 days is enough time in Vienna.

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

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

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

One day in Lucerne or Vienna?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Vienna, you'll find shopping and museums. 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 Vienna?

Lucerne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Vienna, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Vienna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vienna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Vienna?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Lucerne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vienna. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Vienna. 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Vienna?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Vienna, 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 Lucerne or Vienna?

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 Lucerne or Vienna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Vienna. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Vienna for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lucerne is generally around the same temperature as Vienna. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 21°C (70°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vienna this time of the year. In Lucerne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Vienna during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Vienna. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lucerne or Vienna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Vienna. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Vienna because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lucerne is around the same temperature as Vienna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Vienna fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Vienna. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 140 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in October than Vienna. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Vienna in the Winter?

Both Vienna and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vienna this time of year.

It's quite cold in Vienna in the winter. The weather in Lucerne can be very cold. In the winter, Lucerne is a little warmer than Vienna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lucerne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Vienna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Vienna during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Vienna. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lucerne or Vienna in the Spring?

Both Vienna and Lucerne during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vienna for the natural beauty.

In April, Lucerne is generally around the same temperature as Vienna. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 12°C (53°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Vienna. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 202 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than Vienna. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vienna and Lucerne