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

Should you visit Salzburg or Avignon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Avignon, 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.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a beautiful, musical, and cultural city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Avignon

Avignon is a picturesque, historical, and quaint town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Avignon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Avignon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Salzburg than Avignon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Salzburg is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Avignon attracts visitors for its museums, food, and small town charm. Salzburg is more touristy than Avignon and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also well known for The Salzburg Old Town. Avignon is famous for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Avignon is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Avignon on the map. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Salzburg. 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 Salzburg or Avignon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Avignon 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, Avignon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

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 Salzburg or Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Salzburg is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Salzburg or Avignon Better for Music?

Salzburg is renowned for its music scene. However, Avignon is not a live music destination.

Salzburg has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Avignon is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg and Avignon both have world-class historical old towns that attract visitors.

Salzburg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

The old town of Avignon is one of the most recognized in the world. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Avignon?

Salzburg is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Salzburg specifically to go shopping. 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.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Salzburg or Avignon Better for Families?

Salzburg is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Salzburg. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Salzburg or Avignon Better for Couples?

Salzburg is renowned for couples. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Salzburg is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Avignon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Is Salzburg or Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Salzburg or Avignon Better for Students?

Salzburg is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Avignon is not popular with students.

Salzburg is a very popular place to visit 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.

Avignon is not popular with students.

Is Salzburg or Avignon 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. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Avignon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Is Salzburg or Avignon a more walkable city?

Avignon is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Avignon on foot. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

Salzburg is very walkable. 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 Salzburg Worth Visiting? and Is Avignon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Avignon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Salzburg or Avignon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Salzburg than Avignon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 1-2 days is enough time in Avignon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg than Avignon 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 Salzburg or Avignon?

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Avignon is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Salzburg or Avignon?

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Salzburg or Avignon?

Salzburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Salzburg has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Avignon 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 Salzburg or Avignon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Avignon 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 town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Avignon?

Salzburg has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Avignon. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Avignon, 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 Salzburg or Avignon?

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 Salzburg or Avignon in the Summer?

Both Avignon and Salzburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Avignon in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Salzburg is cooler than Avignon in the summer. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Avignon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Avignon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Salzburg. In the summer, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 354 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in July than Avignon. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Avignon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Avignon. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Avignon for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Salzburg is cooler than Avignon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Salzburg in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Avignon averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during autumn. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Avignon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Avignon. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Salzburg or Avignon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Avignon. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Avignon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Salzburg can be very cold during winter. In January, Salzburg is generally much colder than Avignon. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around -0°C (31°F), and Avignon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 146 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in January than Avignon. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Avignon in the Spring?

Both Avignon and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Avignon this time of year.

Salzburg is cooler than Avignon in the spring. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Avignon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Avignon. Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during spring. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Avignon. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Avignon and Salzburg