A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Innsbruck for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Saaremaa or Innsbruck?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Innsbruck, 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.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a peaceful, relaxed, and traditional island. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a youthful , adventurous, and high energy city. Many visitors also come 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.

Saaremaa and Innsbruck: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Innsbruck?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Innsbruck. Although Saaremaa and Innsbruck are both popular with visitors, Innsbruck has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Innsbruck is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Saaremaa is known for its beaches and small town charm. Innsbruck is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. It is also home to The Golden Roof in the old town. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

The Golden Roof in the old town
The Golden Roof in the old town

How is Saaremaa different from Innsbruck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saaremaa or Innsbruck Better for Skiing?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is great for skiing. However, Saaremaa 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.

Saaremaa is not a skiing destination.


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

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Innsbruck can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Saaremaa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Innsbruck makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Saaremaa or Innsbruck Better for Nightlife?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is great for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Innsbruck for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Innsbruck Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Saaremaa is a island with good options for the beache. However, Innsbruck is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saaremaa. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Innsbruck is not a beach destination.


Is Saaremaa or Innsbruck Better for its Old Town?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Innsbruck offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is Saaremaa or Innsbruck Better for Hiking?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is great for hiking. However, Saaremaa 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.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Is Saaremaa or Innsbruck Better for Families?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.


Is Saaremaa or Innsbruck Better for Couples?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Saaremaa and Innsbruck are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

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 Saaremaa or Innsbruck Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Is Saaremaa or Innsbruck Better for Students?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

Innsbruck is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.


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

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Innsbruck can get you to most places easily. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Innsbruck a more walkable city?

Saaremaa
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is great for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination 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.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Innsbruck or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Innsbruck?

It's fun to spend time in either Saaremaa or Innsbruck. In our opinion, Innsbruck has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Innsbruck than Saaremaa. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


  • How many days in Saaremaa or Innsbruck? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saaremaa 2-4 
    Innsbruck 2-4

One day in Saaremaa or Innsbruck?

Even though Saaremaa is a small town, it has plenty 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Innsbruck offers skiing and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Saaremaa or Innsbruck?

Saaremaa is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Innsbruck 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Innsbruck, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Innsbruck?

Saaremaa is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Innsbruck 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.

A week in Saaremaa or Innsbruck?

Saaremaa is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Innsbruck is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg.


Which place is cheaper, Innsbruck or Saaremaa?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Saaremaa is €101, while the average daily cost in Innsbruck is €129. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Saaremaa and Innsbruck in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saaremaa 36
    Innsbruck 76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saaremaa 72
    Innsbruck 152
Compare Hotels in Saaremaa and Innsbruck

Looking for a hotel in Saaremaa or Innsbruck? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Saaremaa


Hotels in Innsbruck


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Innsbruck Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saaremaa 47
    Innsbruck 15
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Saaremaa:


  • Rental Car and Gas for a Day
    34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Salzburg: $256
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Munich, English Speaking Driver: $197
  • Private transfer from Innsbruck airport: $196
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Silvretta Arena - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • St Anton am Arlberg to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $104
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN)to Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Round-Trip Transfer: $98
  • Innsbruck Airport INN to Alpbach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Innsbruck Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Round-Trip Transfer: $76
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Silvretta Arena Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Soelden - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Kitzbühel/SkiWelt - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Saaremaa or Innsbruck?

Prices for flights to both Innsbruck and Saaremaa change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Saaremaa 37
    Innsbruck 40
Typical Food Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saaremaa:


  • Salmon
    1.28

Typical Food Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of dining costs in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Soup for Lunch
    3.75
  • Pasta Lunch
    8.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Innsbruck

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Innsbruck.

  • Half-Day Food Tour of Tyrolean Cuisine: $148
  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saaremaa 21
    Innsbruck 19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Schloss Ambras Entrance
    8.00
  • Botanical Garden Entrance Fee
    2.00

Tours and Activities in Innsbruck

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Innsbruck are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Innsbruck: $155
  • AREA 47 Water AREA Entrance Ticket: $35
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $21
  • Austrian Hidden Gem Tour: The Most Beautiful Villages: $191
  • Bergisel Ski Jump Arena Entrance Ticket in Innsbruck: $11
  • Bergisel SkiJump Area guided Tour incl Tickets: $85
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $20
  • Cultural and culinary pleasure tour through Innsbruck's old town: $180
  • Full day small group Tour in Neuschwanstein from Innsbruck: $213
  • Full-Day small group tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes, Braies : $217
  • Gin experience Tyrol: $120
  • Hungerburg: Roundtrip Funicular Tickets from Innsbruck: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saaremaa 11
    Innsbruck 19


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

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


Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Innsbruck?

Innsbruck has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa 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.