A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Porto vs. Salzburg for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Porto 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 Porto and Salzburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a historic, cultural, and cosmopolitan port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

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.

Porto and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Salzburg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Porto than Salzburg. Porto is bigger than Salzburg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Porto is better known for its food, 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 Porto and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Porto is well known for its authentic old town and the local port wine. Also, Porto is famous for Cais da Ribeira.

How is Porto different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Porto specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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 Porto or Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Porto is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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 Porto or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Porto 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.

Porto offers plenty to do in the evening. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

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 Porto or Salzburg Better for Music?

Salzburg is very popular for live music. However, Porto is not a live music destination.

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.

Porto is not a live music destination.

Is Porto or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Salzburg?

Salzburg is very popular for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Porto or Salzburg Better for Families?

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

Porto is a very family-friendly destination. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Salzburg is a very kid-friendly port 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 Porto or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Is Porto or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is terrific for backpackers. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Porto is a very popular port city to visit for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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.

Is Porto or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Porto is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

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

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

Public transit in Porto is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

Salzburg has some very good public transit options. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Porto or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Porto and Salzburg are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

Salzburg is a very walkable port city. 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 Porto Worth Visiting? and Is Salzburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Porto?

How long in Porto or Salzburg?

In either Porto 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 Porto. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

Couples should spend more time in Salzburg than Porto. 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 Porto than Salzburg 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 Porto.

One day in Porto or Salzburg?

Porto is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Salzburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Porto or Salzburg?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Porto or Salzburg?

Porto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Porto, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Salzburg is a fun place to experience. In Salzburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Porto or Salzburg?

Porto is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 port city offers something for everyone.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, 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 Porto and Salzburg, we can see that Salzburg is more expensive. And not only is Porto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Porto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Porto 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 Porto.

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Salzburg?

Porto has a larger population, and is about 66% larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Porto 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 Porto 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 Porto or Salzburg in the Summer?

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

In July, Porto is generally around the same temperature as Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 21°C (69°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Porto. In the summer, Porto often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun.

Porto usually gets less rain in July than Salzburg. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Salzburg in the Autumn?

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

Porto is much warmer than Salzburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Porto usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during autumn. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Porto usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Porto or Salzburg in the Winter?

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

Salzburg can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Porto is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Porto in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Salzburg averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the winter. Porto usually gets more rain in January than Salzburg. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Salzburg in the Spring?

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

In April, Porto is generally a little warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 14°C (56°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Porto. In April, Porto usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Porto