A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Salzburg vs. Dublin for Nightlife, Music, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Salzburg or Dublin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Dublin, 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 recognizable, historic, and beautiful 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Dublin

Dublin is a friendly, welcoming, and fun city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Salzburg and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Dublin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dublin than Salzburg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dublin is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Salzburg is known for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Dublin and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Dublin is popular for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also home to The Guinness Storehouse.

How is Salzburg different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Salzburg or Dublin.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Salzburg can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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

Salzburg is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Salzburg or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Dublin is a must-see party destination. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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.

Is Salzburg or Dublin Better for Music?

Salzburg is terrific for its live music scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

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.

Dublin has a thriving music scene. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Is Salzburg or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is terrific for its old town. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Dublin?

Salzburg is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Dublin 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 Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Is Salzburg or Dublin Better for Families?

Salzburg and Dublin are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Dublin is a very family-friendly destination. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Is Salzburg or Dublin Better for Couples?

Salzburg is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Salzburg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Dublin is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Salzburg or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Salzburg and Dublin are superb destinations for backpackers.

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Dublin is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Is Salzburg or Dublin Better for Students?

Salzburg is terrific for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Salzburg is a great destination 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.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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

Salzburg is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Salzburg or Dublin a more walkable city?

Dublin 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 Dublin on foot. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center 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 Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Dublin?

In either Salzburg or Dublin, 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 Dublin. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dublin.

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Dublin 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.

A weekend in Salzburg or Dublin?

Salzburg is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dublin 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 Dublin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dublin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dublin, 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 Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the recognizable destination of Salzburg. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dublin is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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.

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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Salzburg and Dublin, we can see that Salzburg 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 Salzburg Expensive? and Is Dublin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Dublin, 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 Dublin?

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 Dublin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Dublin. The summer months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

In July, Salzburg is generally a little warmer than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 20°C (68°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Dublin. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Dublin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Dublin. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Salzburg is around the same temperature as Dublin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Dublin fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Dublin. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Dublin in the Winter?

Both Dublin and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dublin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Salzburg. In the winter, Salzburg is much colder than Dublin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Salzburg in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Dublin averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Dublin during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Dublin. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Dublin in the Spring?

Both Dublin and Salzburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dublin for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Salzburg is generally a little warmer than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (51°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in April than Dublin. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Salzburg