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

Should you visit Salzburg or Milan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Milan, 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Milan

Milan is a chic, cultural, and trendy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Salzburg and Milan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Milan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Milan than Salzburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Milan is very popular for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Salzburg attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Milan and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Milan is famous for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also well known for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Salzburg different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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

Milan 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, Milan is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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 Milan Better for Nightlife?

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

Milan is a must-see party destination. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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 Milan Better for Music?

Both Salzburg and Milan offer first-rate live music venues.

In Salzburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Milan is known as a music capital around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Is Salzburg or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg and Milan both have first-rate 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 Milan is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Milan?

Both Salzburg and Milan are first-rate shopping destinations.

Salzburg is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Milan. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Is Salzburg or Milan Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Salzburg. 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.

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Salzburg or Milan Better for Couples?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Salzburg or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Salzburg and Milan are high quality 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.

Milan is very popular with the backpacker crowd. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Salzburg or Milan Better for Students?

Salzburg and Milan are both first-rate 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.

Milan is a very popular city for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

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

Milan 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 Milan can take you anywhere. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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

Is Salzburg or Milan a more walkable city?

Milan 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 Milan on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milan or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Milan?

In either Salzburg or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Milan has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Milan than Salzburg. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

Families should spend more time in Salzburg than Milan. 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 Milan 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 Milan.

One day in Salzburg or Milan?

In Salzburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Milan is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Milan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Five days in Salzburg or Milan?

Salzburg is a fun place to experience. In Salzburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Milan 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Milan?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Milan, 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 Milan?

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 Milan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Milan. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milan for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Salzburg is cooler than Milan in the summer. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Milan fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Milan. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg this time of the year. In the summer, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Milan. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in July than Milan. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Milan in the Autumn?

Both Milan and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Milan in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Salzburg is cooler than Milan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Salzburg in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Milan averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Milan during autumn. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Milan. In October, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Milan. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Salzburg or Milan in the Winter?

Both Milan and Salzburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Milan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Milan can be very cold during winter. Salzburg can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Salzburg is generally much colder than Milan. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around -0°C (31°F), and Milan fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Milan. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 119 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in January than Milan. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Milan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Milan. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Milan because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Salzburg is cooler than Milan in the spring. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Milan fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Milan during spring. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Milan. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Milan and Salzburg