A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Manchester vs. Salzburg for Music, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Manchester or Salzburg?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Manchester and Salzburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a dynamic, diverse, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural, recognizable, and historic city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Manchester and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Manchester or Salzburg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Manchester than Salzburg. Manchester is bigger than Salzburg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Manchester is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Salzburg is more popular for its music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Manchester and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Manchester is well known for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club. Also, Manchester is famous for The National Football Museum.

How is Manchester different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Manchester or Salzburg?

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Manchester or Salzburg.

Many visitors head to Manchester specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Salzburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

Is the Food Better in Manchester or Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Manchester and Salzburg offer excellent local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Manchester. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Salzburg. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Manchester or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Manchester is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Manchester offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Manchester or Salzburg Better for Music?

Salzburg is very popular for live music. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

Salzburg is known as a music capital around the world. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Is Manchester or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is very popular for its historic old town. However, Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Salzburg has a world-famous historical area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Salzburg?

Salzburg is very popular for shopping. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Salzburg. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Manchester is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Manchester or Salzburg Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Manchester or Salzburg.

Manchester is a very family-friendly destination. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

Salzburg is a very kid-friendly city. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Is Manchester or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is very popular for romance. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Salzburg has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Manchester is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Is Manchester or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Salzburg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

It's common for backpackers to visit Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Manchester or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Manchester is a great city to visit as a student. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Is Manchester or Salzburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Manchester and Salzburg both offer excellent public transit to get you around.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Manchester. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Public transit in Salzburg can get you to some places easily. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Manchester or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Salzburg is great for its walkability. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Manchester Worth Visiting? and Is Salzburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Salzburg?

In either Manchester or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than Manchester because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Manchester, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg than Manchester 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 Salzburg.

One day in Manchester or Salzburg?

Manchester is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With live music and food around the historic city of Salzburg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Manchester or Salzburg?

Manchester is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Manchester, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With food and shopping around the destination of Salzburg, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Manchester or Salzburg?

Manchester is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Salzburg, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Manchester or Salzburg?

Manchester is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Salzburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Manchester or Salzburg?

Manchester has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Manchester and Salzburg, 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 Manchester or Salzburg?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Manchester or Salzburg in the Summer?

Both Salzburg and Manchester during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Manchester this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Manchester is generally cooler than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 16°C (62°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Salzburg. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets less rain in July than Salzburg. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Salzburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Salzburg. Many travelers come to Manchester for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Salzburg in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Manchester is around the same temperature as Salzburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Salzburg during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Manchester usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Manchester or Salzburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Salzburg. Many visitors come to Manchester in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Salzburg can be very cold during winter. Manchester can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Manchester is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Manchester in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Salzburg averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Manchester often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets more rain in January than Salzburg. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Salzburg in the Spring?

Both Salzburg and Manchester are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Manchester for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the natural beauty.

In April, Manchester is generally cooler than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 8°C (46°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Manchester usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Salzburg during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Manchester usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Manchester