A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marbella vs. Salzburg for Nightlife, Music, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Marbella or Salzburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella or Salzburg, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marbella

Marbella is a ritzy, glamorous, and fun-filled resort town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a recognizable, historic, and beautiful city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Marbella and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Salzburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Marbella than Salzburg. While Salzburg is larger than Marbella, Marbella has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marbella is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Salzburg is known for its museums, food, music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Marbella and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Marbella is popular for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. It is also home to Plaza de los Naranjos.

How is Marbella different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Salzburg is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Salzburg is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Salzburg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Marbella area. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

Is Marbella or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Marbella is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Marbella is a must-see party destination. European tourists flock to the town for its beaches and resorts. The town has a glamorous nightlife scene with exclusive clubs and ritzy cocktail bars, particularly in Puerto Banus and along the Golden Mile.

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 Marbella or Salzburg Better for Music?

Salzburg is very popular for its live music scene. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Salzburg. 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.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Marbella. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Is Marbella or Salzburg Better for Resorts?

Marbella is terrific for its resorts. However, Salzburg is not a resort destination.

Marbella offers an unforgettable resort vacation. From luxury to family-friendly, this area has plenty of resorts to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano Marbella, and Don Carlos Resort and Spa.

Salzburg is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Salzburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Salzburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Marbella specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There are more than 100 dive sights and endless snorkeling opportunities in the area. There are deep offshore reefs that you can explore as well as shallower wrecks and caves.

Salzburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Salzburg Better for Beaches?

Marbella is terrific for the beach. However, Salzburg is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Marbella are among the best in the world. The area boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. They are hubs of activity with lots of energy, and there are more than 18 miles of sandy beach in the area. Popular options include Guadalmina Beach, San Pedro de Alcántara Beach, and Nueva Andalucía Beach.

Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is very popular for its old town. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

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.

Marbella offers a nice historic old town area. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Salzburg?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Marbella and Salzburg.

Known for shopping, Marbella draws large crowds to its stores. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

Salzburg is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Is Marbella or Salzburg Better for Families?

Marbella and Salzburg are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Marbella is very family-friendly. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Marbella or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Marbella and Salzburg are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Marbella has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon.

Salzburg is a great resort town for couples, as it 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.

Is Marbella or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Salzburg. 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.

Marbella is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels in the area for backpackers who want to enjoy this part of Spain's cost. There's also a lively nightlife scene and plenty of opportunities to meet others.

Is Marbella or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Marbella is not popular with students.

Salzburg is a great destination for students. 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.

Marbella is not popular with students.

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

Salzburg is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Salzburg can get you around easily. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Marbella. There is a bus system through the area, but most visitors prefer to get around by car.

Is Marbella or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Marbella and Salzburg are superb when it comes to walkability.

Marbella is a very walkable resort town. The old town is particularly walkable and there are a number of hotels and nice resorts within a short walk of the town along a nice promenade.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Salzburg?

In either Marbella or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Salzburg has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Salzburg than Marbella. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Marbella, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

Couples should spend more time in Salzburg than Marbella. 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 Marbella 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 Marbella or Salzburg?

The beautiful resort town of Marbella offers shopping and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The beautiful city of Salzburg offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

A weekend in Marbella or Salzburg?

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

Salzburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Salzburg?

Marbella is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marbella, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Salzburg is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Salzburg, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marbella or Salzburg?

Marbella is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.

Salzburg is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, 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 Marbella and Salzburg, we can see that Salzburg is more expensive. And not only is Marbella much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marbella would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marbella 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 Salzburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Salzburg than you might in Marbella.

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Salzburg?

Salzburg has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Marbella. When comparing the sizes of Marbella 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 Marbella 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 Marbella or Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Salzburg. The summer months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

In the summer, Marbella is a little warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marbella in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Salzburg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the summer, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Marbella gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets less rain in July than Salzburg. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Salzburg in the Autumn?

Both Salzburg and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marbella this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Marbella is generally much warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 19°C (67°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during autumn. Marbella gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Marbella usually receives around the same amount of rain as Salzburg. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marbella or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Marbella during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Salzburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Salzburg can get quite cold in the winter. Marbella is much warmer than Salzburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun.

Marbella usually gets more rain in January than Salzburg. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Salzburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Salzburg. Many visitors come to Marbella in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Salzburg for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Marbella is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marbella in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In Marbella, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during spring. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marbella usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Marbella