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

Should you visit Salzburg or Lyon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Lyon, 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. 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Lyon

Lyon is a authentic, historic, and beautiful city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Lyon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lyon than Salzburg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lyon is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Salzburg is known for its music and shopping. Salzburg is more touristy than Lyon and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Lyon is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also home to The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Salzburg different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon 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 Lyon on the map. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon 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, Lyon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Lyon offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon Better for Music?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg and Lyon 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 Lyon is one of the most recognized in the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Lyon?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Salzburg or Lyon Better for Families?

Salzburg and Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Salzburg or Lyon Better for Couples?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Salzburg or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Salzburg and Lyon 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.

Lyon is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Salzburg or Lyon Better for Students?

Salzburg and Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very popular city for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

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

Lyon is terrific for its public transit. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lyon can take you anywhere. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Salzburg or Lyon a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Lyon both are superb 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.

Lyon is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Lyon?

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

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Salzburg. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lyon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Salzburg than Lyon. 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 Lyon 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 Lyon.

One day in Salzburg or Lyon?

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.

Lyon is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Lyon?

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.

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

Five days in Salzburg or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the musical 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.

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

The cultural 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.

Lyon 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.

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 Lyon, we can see that Salzburg is more expensive. And not only is Lyon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lyon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lyon 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 Lyon.

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Lyon?

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

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 Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

In July, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Lyon. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 20°C (68°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Lyon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Lyon. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Lyon in the Autumn?

Both Lyon and Salzburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Salzburg is cooler than Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Lyon. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Lyon. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lyon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lyon can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Salzburg. In the winter, Salzburg is much colder than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Salzburg in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lyon. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Lyon. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

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

In the spring, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Salzburg