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

Should you visit Salzburg or Florence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Florence, 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence than Salzburg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Florence is more popular for its museums and food, while Salzburg is known for its music, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Florence is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also home to The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Salzburg different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence 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 Florence on the map. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence 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, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Both Salzburg and Florence 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 Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Salzburg or Florence Better for Music?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg and Florence both have amazing 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 Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Florence?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Salzburg draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Salzburg or Florence Better for Families?

Salzburg is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Salzburg is very family-friendly. 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Salzburg or Florence Better for Couples?

Salzburg and Florence are both amazing to visit as a couple.

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.

Florence is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Is Salzburg or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is terrific for backpackers. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Florence is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Salzburg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Is Salzburg or Florence Better for Students?

Salzburg and Florence are both amazing destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Florence is a very popular city for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

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

Public transit in Salzburg can get you to some places easily. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Salzburg or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence 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 Florence on foot. Most people explore the city 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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Florence?

Both Salzburg and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Salzburg. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

Families should spend more time in Salzburg than Florence. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Salzburg 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 Florence.

One day in Salzburg or Florence?

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 Florence offers food and shopping. 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 Florence?

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.

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

Five days in Salzburg or Florence?

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.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, 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 Florence?

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.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Salzburg and Florence, 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 Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Florence. The summer months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In July, Salzburg is generally cooler than Florence. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 20°C (68°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg this time of the year. In the summer, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Florence. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Salzburg or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Salzburg is cooler than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Florence during autumn. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Florence. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Salzburg or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Salzburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Florence 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 Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Salzburg in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Florence. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in January than Florence. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Florence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Florence. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Salzburg is generally cooler than Florence. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (51°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Florence during spring. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Florence. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Salzburg