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

Should you visit Saaremaa or Linz?

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

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

Linz

Linz is a cultural, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Saaremaa and Linz: 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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Linz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Linz. Although Saaremaa and Linz are both popular with visitors, Linz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Linz is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Saaremaa is known for its food, beaches, and small town charm. Linz is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries. It is also home to The Castle of Linz. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Saaremaa
Linz

Linz is great for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Linz can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Saaremaa
Linz

Saaremaa is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saaremaa. 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.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Saaremaa or Linz Better for Nightlife?

Saaremaa
Linz

Linz is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

Linz doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

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 Linz Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa
Linz

Saaremaa is a island with good options for the beache. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a beach destination.


Is Saaremaa or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Saaremaa
Linz

Linz is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Linz?

Saaremaa
Linz

Linz is great for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Linz. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Linz Better for Families?

Saaremaa
Linz

Saaremaa and Linz are both good destinations for the whole family.

Saaremaa offers lots of family activities. 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.

Linz is a family-friendly place to visit. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.


Is Saaremaa or Linz Better for Couples?

Saaremaa
Linz

Saaremaa and Linz 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.

Linz is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

Is Saaremaa or Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saaremaa
Linz

For backpackers, both Saaremaa and Linz are good places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Saaremaa. 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.

Linz is a good island to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

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

Saaremaa
Linz

Linz 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 Linz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the 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 Linz a more walkable city?

Saaremaa
Linz

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

Linz is a very walkable destination. The tourist areas are easy 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 Linz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Linz or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Linz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saaremaa or Linz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saaremaa than Linz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 1-2 days is enough time in Linz.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Saaremaa or Linz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saaremaa 2-4 
    Linz 1-2

One day in Saaremaa or Linz?

Saaremaa is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful town of Linz offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Linz?

Saaremaa is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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


Five days in Saaremaa or Linz?

Saaremaa is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This island offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Linz 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 Linz?

Because Saaremaa is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Linz 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 town 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 in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Linz 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 Linz is €114. 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 Linz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saaremaa 36
    Linz 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saaremaa 72
    Linz 116
Compare Hotels in Saaremaa and Linz

Looking for a hotel in Saaremaa or Linz? 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 Linz


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: Linz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saaremaa 47
    Linz 41
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 Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $212
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $180
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Saaremaa or Linz?

Prices for flights to both Linz 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
    Linz 32
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 Linz

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


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    4.20
  • Lunch
    8.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saaremaa 21
    Linz 13

Tours and Activities in Linz

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

  • Christmas Tales of Linz – Private Walking Tour: $544
  • Christmas Tales of Linz – Private Walking Tour: $262
  • Cycling Tour of Linz with a Private Guide: $237
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $214
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Linz - Private Historic Walking Tour: $374
  • Linz Christmas Market Tour: $294
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $401
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $205
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saaremaa 11
    Linz 16


When comparing the travel costs between Saaremaa and Linz, we can see that Linz is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Linz?

Linz has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Linz, 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 Saaremaa or Linz?

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 Saaremaa or Linz in the Summer?

Both Linz and Saaremaa during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Linz for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saaremaa is generally cooler than Linz. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 17°C (62°F), and Linz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Linz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saaremaa. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Linz. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in July than Linz. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saaremaa 17°C (62°F) 
    Linz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Linz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Linz. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Linz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Saaremaa is cooler than Linz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 8°C (47°F) in October, and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Linz during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saaremaa usually receives more rain than Linz. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saaremaa 8°C (47°F) 
    Linz 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Linz in the Winter?

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

Linz can be very cold during winter. Saaremaa can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saaremaa is much colder than Linz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saaremaa in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Linz averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Linz. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets more rain in January than Linz. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saaremaa -3°C (27°F) 
    Linz -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Linz in the Spring?

Both Linz and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Linz because of the natural beauty.

Saaremaa can be very cold during spring. In April, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Linz. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 4°C (38°F), and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Linz during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Linz. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saaremaa 4°C (38°F) 
    Linz 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Linz and Saaremaa

Saaremaa Linz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) -0°C (31°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb -3°C (26°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar -1°C (30°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 4°C (38°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 8°C (47°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 0°C (32°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)