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

Should you visit Salzburg or Bordeaux?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Bordeaux, 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 musical, cultural, and recognizable city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a elegant, charming, and romantic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Salzburg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bordeaux is more popular for its food and big city activities, while Salzburg is known for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Bordeaux is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André.

How is Salzburg different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux?

Salzburg is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Salzburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

Is the Food Better in Salzburg or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux 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, Bordeaux is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Both Salzburg and Bordeaux are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bordeaux. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Salzburg or Bordeaux Better for Music?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Salzburg 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.

Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Salzburg is revered around the world. 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.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Bordeaux?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Salzburg make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Salzburg or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Salzburg is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Salzburg is a very kid-friendly 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Salzburg or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Salzburg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Bordeaux is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Is Salzburg or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Salzburg is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Salzburg or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for students. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent 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.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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

Both Salzburg and Bordeaux offer very good public transit options.

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

Visitors to Bordeaux can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Is Salzburg or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Bordeaux both are very good when exploring on foot.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

Bordeaux is very walkable. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

For even more information, also check out Is Salzburg Worth Visiting? and Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Bordeaux?

In either Salzburg or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Salzburg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Salzburg than Bordeaux. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

Families should spend more time in Salzburg than Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux?

The beautiful city of Salzburg offers museums and nightlife. 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.

The beautiful city of Bordeaux offers food and shopping. 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 Salzburg or Bordeaux?

Salzburg 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.

Bordeaux 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bordeaux, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Bordeaux?

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

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Salzburg or Bordeaux?

Salzburg 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 city offers something for everyone.

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Salzburg and Bordeaux, we can see that Salzburg is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bordeaux would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux.

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 100% larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Bordeaux. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Bordeaux. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Salzburg is cooler than Bordeaux in the autumn. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Bordeaux. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

The weather in Salzburg can be very cold. In the winter, Salzburg is much colder than Bordeaux. Typically, the winter temperatures in Salzburg in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. In January, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bordeaux in the Spring?

Both Bordeaux and Salzburg during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (51°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in April than Bordeaux. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Salzburg