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

Should you visit Salzburg or Pompeii?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Pompeii, 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 cultural, recognizable, and historic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a ancient, famous, and iconic archeological site. Other popular activities here include museums.

Salzburg and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Pompeii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Salzburg. Although Salzburg and Pompeii are popular destinations, Salzburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Salzburg is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Pompeii attracts visitors for its museums. Salzburg is famous for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also well known for The Salzburg Old Town. Pompeii is famous for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii 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 Pompeii on the map. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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 Pompeii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salzburg is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Salzburg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Salzburg or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Salzburg is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Salzburg or Pompeii Better for Music?

Salzburg is renowned for its music scene. However, Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Salzburg has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Salzburg is one of the most recognized in 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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Pompeii?

Salzburg is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Many people travel to Salzburg specifically to go shopping. 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Salzburg or Pompeii Better for Families?

Salzburg and Pompeii are both excellent 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.

Pompeii is a very family-friendly destination. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Salzburg or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Salzburg is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Salzburg 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Salzburg or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Salzburg. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Salzburg or Pompeii Better for Students?

Salzburg is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

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

Salzburg is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Salzburg offers a very effecient public transportation network. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Pompeii, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Salzburg or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii 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 Pompeii on foot. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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 Pompeii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Pompeii?

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

Couples should spend more time in Salzburg than Pompeii. 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 Pompeii 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 Pompeii?

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 archeological site of Pompeii offers museums. 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 Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this archeological site makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pompeii, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archeological site 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 Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

When is the best time to visit Salzburg or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii and Salzburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the family-friendly experiences.

Salzburg is cooler than Pompeii in the summer. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Pompeii fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Pompeii, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Salzburg. In the summer, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in July than Pompeii. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Pompeii. The autumn months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Salzburg is much colder than Pompeii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Salzburg in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Pompeii averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during autumn. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Salzburg or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Pompeii. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Pompeii for the museums.

It's quite cold in Salzburg in the winter. In January, Salzburg is generally much colder than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around -0°C (31°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Salzburg usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the natural beauty.

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

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during spring. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Salzburg