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

Should you visit Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel, 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 traditional, quiet, and calm island. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and beaches.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a breathtaking, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled ski resort. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Saaremaa and Kitzbuhel: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kitzbuhel. Although Saaremaa and Kitzbuhel are both popular with visitors, Kitzbuhel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kitzbuhel is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saaremaa is known for its beaches. Kitzbuhel is more touristy than Saaremaa and is known for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. It is also home to The Kitzbüheler Horn. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Kitzbuhel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel Better for Skiing?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is an amazing ski resort to visit for skiing. However, Saaremaa is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Kitzbuhel is among the best in the world. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Saaremaa is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is adequate for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Kitzbuhel specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Kitzbuhel can be difficult as they are each very good 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, Kitzbuhel makes for a great culinary experience. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

Is Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel Better for Nightlife?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

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

Many people head to Kitzbuhel for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

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 Kitzbuhel Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Saaremaa is a popular place for the beache. However, Kitzbuhel is not a beach destination.

Saaremaa is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Kitzbuhel is not a beach destination.

Is Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel Better for its Old Town?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is great for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Kitzbuhel to see the historical old town. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel Better for Hiking?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is an amazing ski resort to visit for hiking. However, Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kitzbuhel draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kitzbuhel has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel Better for Families?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

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 Kitzbuhel Better for Couples?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Saaremaa and Kitzbuhel are both very good 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.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.


Is Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

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

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Kitzbuhel offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

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 Kitzbuhel a more walkable city?

Saaremaa
Kitzbuhel

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

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable destination. The town is small and compact enough to explore 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 Kitzbuhel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kitzbuhel or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

Both Saaremaa and Kitzbuhel have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Saaremaa. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 4-7 days is enough time in Kitzbuhel.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saaremaa 2-4 
    Kitzbuhel 4-7

One day in Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

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 ski resort of Kitzbuhel offers nightlife and food. 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 Kitzbuhel?

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.

Kitzbuhel 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 Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

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.

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


A week in Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

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.

Kitzbuhel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kitzbuhel has to offer. This ski resort 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 Budget Tours to Austria, and The Best Luxury Tours to Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel is €179. 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 Kitzbuhel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saaremaa 36
    Kitzbuhel 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saaremaa 72
    Kitzbuhel 178
Compare Hotels in Saaremaa and Kitzbuhel

Looking for a hotel in Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel? 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 Kitzbuhel


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: Kitzbuhel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saaremaa 47
    Kitzbuhel 69
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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

Prices for flights to both Kitzbuhel 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
    Kitzbuhel 48
Typical Food Prices in Saaremaa

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


  • Salmon
    1.28

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saaremaa 21
    Kitzbuhel 34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saaremaa 11
    Kitzbuhel 11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saaremaa and Kitzbuhel, we can see that Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Kitzbuhel?

Saaremaa has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Kitzbuhel, 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.