A Travel Price Comparison for Austria Salzburg vs. Linz for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Salzburg or Linz?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Linz, 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 historic, beautiful, and musical city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Linz

Linz is a cultural, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Linz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Linz?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Salzburg than Linz. While Linz is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Salzburg is more touristy than Linz and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also home to The Salzburg Old Town. Linz is popular for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Linz. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

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

Salzburg is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Salzburg or Linz Better for Nightlife?

Salzburg is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Salzburg or Linz Better for Music?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Linz?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Linz. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

Is Salzburg or Linz Better for Families?

Salzburg is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Linz is a family-friendly city. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Salzburg or Linz Better for Couples?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Salzburg is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Linz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

Is Salzburg or Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Is Salzburg or Linz Better for Students?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for students. However, Linz is not popular with students.

Salzburg is a very popular city 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.

Linz is not popular with students.

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

Salzburg is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

Is Salzburg or Linz a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Linz both are high quality 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.

Linz is very walkable. The tourist areas are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Linz or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Linz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Salzburg or Linz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Salzburg than Linz 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 Linz.

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Salzburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful town of Linz 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 Linz?

Salzburg is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Salzburg or Linz?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the recognizable destination of Salzburg. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Linz 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 Linz?

The beautiful city of Salzburg offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Linz 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 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Linz?

Linz has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Linz, 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 Linz?

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 Linz in the Summer?

Both Linz and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Linz for the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Linz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Linz during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Linz. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Linz in the Autumn?

Both Linz and Salzburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Linz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Linz. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in October than Linz. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Linz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Linz. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Linz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Linz can be very cold during winter. Salzburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Linz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Salzburg in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Linz averages at about -0°C (31°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Linz during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Linz. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Linz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Linz. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Linz because of the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Linz. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Linz. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Linz and Salzburg