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

Should you visit Salzburg or Pamplona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Pamplona, 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 musical, cultural, and recognizable 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a elegant, laid-back, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Salzburg and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Pamplona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pamplona than Salzburg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Pamplona is more popular for its nightlife, hiking, and big city activities, while Salzburg is known for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Pamplona and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Pamplona is popular for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. It is also home to The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Salzburg different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Salzburg is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Salzburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Salzburg and Pamplona.

Dining out in Salzburg is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Pamplona. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Salzburg or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Pamplona 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.

Pamplona offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

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 Pamplona Better for Music?

Salzburg is terrific for its live music scene. However, Pamplona 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.

Pamplona is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is terrific for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Salzburg or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Pamplona is a popular spot for hiking. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Pamplona?

Salzburg is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona 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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Salzburg or Pamplona Better for Families?

Salzburg is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Pamplona is a family-friendly city. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Salzburg or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Salzburg is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Salzburg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Salzburg or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Salzburg and Pamplona are very good 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.

Pamplona is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Is Salzburg or Pamplona Better for Students?

Salzburg is terrific for students. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Salzburg. 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.

Plenty of students visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

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

Salzburg is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Pamplona has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Salzburg or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Pamplona both are very good 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.

Pamplona is very walkable. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Pamplona?

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

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

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 city of Pamplona offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Pamplona?

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.

Pamplona 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pamplona, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Pamplona?

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.

Pamplona 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 Pamplona?

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.

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Pamplona?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Pamplona, 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 Pamplona?

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

Both Pamplona and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Pamplona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. Salzburg usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Pamplona. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Pamplona in the Autumn?

Both Pamplona and Salzburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Salzburg is cooler than Pamplona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Pamplona fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Pamplona. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Pamplona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Pamplona. The winter months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

The weather in Salzburg can be very cold. In the winter, Salzburg is much colder than Pamplona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Salzburg in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Pamplona averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Pamplona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Pamplona. The natural beauty are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the activities around the city.

In April, Salzburg is generally cooler than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (51°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Salzburg usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Salzburg