A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Salzburg vs. Leipzig for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Salzburg or Leipzig?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Leipzig, 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 that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a historic, growing, and dynamic city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Leipzig?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Salzburg than Leipzig. While Leipzig is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Salzburg is more touristy than Leipzig and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Also, Salzburg is famous for The Salzburg Old Town. Leipzig is well known for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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

Salzburg is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Salzburg or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Both Salzburg and Leipzig are notable 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 Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Salzburg or Leipzig Better for Music?

Salzburg is terrific for live music. However, Leipzig is not a live music destination.

Salzburg is known as a music capital 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.

Leipzig is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is terrific for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

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.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Leipzig?

Salzburg is terrific for shopping. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Salzburg. 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.

Leipzig is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

Is Salzburg or Leipzig Better for Families?

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

Salzburg is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Salzburg or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Salzburg is terrific for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

Is Salzburg or Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

Leipzig is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Salzburg or Leipzig Better for Students?

Salzburg is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.

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.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Both Salzburg and Leipzig offer superb 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 Leipzig can move around easily with public transportation. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Is Salzburg or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Salzburg is great for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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.

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Leipzig?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Salzburg and Leipzig. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than in Leipzig. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Leipzig.

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

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.

The city of Leipzig 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 Salzburg or Leipzig?

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.

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

Five days in Salzburg or Leipzig?

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.

Leipzig 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 Leipzig?

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.

Leipzig 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 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Leipzig?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

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 Leipzig in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Leipzig. Typically, the summer temperatures in Salzburg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Leipzig averages at about 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Leipzig. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg this time of the year. In the summer, Salzburg often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in July than Leipzig. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Leipzig in the Autumn?

Both Leipzig 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 Leipzig for the shopping scene.

In October, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (52°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Leipzig during autumn. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Salzburg or Leipzig in the Winter?

Both Leipzig and Salzburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Leipzig in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Leipzig can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Salzburg. Salzburg is much colder than Leipzig in the winter. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Leipzig fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Leipzig. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in January than Leipzig. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Leipzig in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Leipzig. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Leipzig. Typically, the spring temperatures in Salzburg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Leipzig averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Salzburg usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during spring. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Salzburg