A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Salzburg vs. Rome for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Salzburg or Rome?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Rome, 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Rome

Rome is a popular, ancient, and archeological 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 Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Colosseum


Is there more to do in Salzburg or Rome?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome than Salzburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rome is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Salzburg attracts visitors for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is famous for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Rome is famous for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also well known for The Colosseum.

The Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is Salzburg different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Salzburg
Rome

Rome 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 Rome on the map. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salzburg
Rome

Rome 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, Rome is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

Salzburg
Rome

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

Rome is a must-see party destination. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

Salzburg
Rome

Both Salzburg and Rome 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.

Rome is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.


Is Salzburg or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg
Rome

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Salzburg offers plenty to see. 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.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Rome?

Salzburg
Rome

Both Salzburg and Rome 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 Rome. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Is Salzburg or Rome Better for Families?

Salzburg
Rome

Salzburg and Rome are both high quality 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.

Rome is a very family-friendly destination. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.


Is Salzburg or Rome Better for Couples?

Salzburg
Rome

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Rome is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Salzburg or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg
Rome

Rome is terrific for backpackers. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rome is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

Salzburg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Is Salzburg or Rome Better for Students?

Salzburg
Rome

Salzburg and Rome 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.

Rome is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.


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

Salzburg
Rome

Rome 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 Rome can take you anywhere. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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

Is Salzburg or Rome a more walkable city?

Salzburg
Rome

Rome 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 Rome on foot. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Rome?

Both Salzburg and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Salzburg. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome 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 Rome.


  • How many days in Salzburg or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Salzburg 3-5 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Salzburg or Rome?

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.

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

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.

Rome is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

Five days in Salzburg or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic 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.

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

The musical 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.

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome or Salzburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Salzburg is €155, while the average daily cost in Rome is €170. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Salzburg and Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Salzburg 91
    Rome 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Salzburg 182
    Rome 178
Compare Hotels in Salzburg and Rome

Looking for a hotel in Salzburg or Rome? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Salzburg


Hotels in Rome


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Salzburg Hotel Prices and Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Salzburg 19
    Rome 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salzburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Salzburg:

  • Arrival Private Transfers: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Business Car: $92
  • Cesky Krumlov: Private One-Way Transfer to Salzburg: $631
  • Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Business Car: $92
  • From Salzburg to Munich Airport- Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $215
  • From Salzburg to Prague, Private Transfer with 2h of Sightseeing: $287
  • Kitzbuhel, Flachau, Transfer From Salzburg & Airport SZG: $292
  • Private Salzburg Airport luxury transfers to Salzburg city&Hotels: $66
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Salzburg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $281
  • Private Transfer From Salzburg To Innsbruck, English Speaking Driver : $264
  • Private Transfer From Salzburg To Kitzbuhel, English Speaking Driver : $186
  • Private Transfer From Salzburg To Zell am See, Innsbruck or Kitzbuhel: $116
  • Private Transfer From Salzburg to Vienna: $216

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rome:


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    2.00
  • Train to the Airport
    15
  • Taxi to Airport
    45
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • Bus Transfer from Rome to Milan or Vice Versa: $5.39
  • Shuttle Bus Transfer to or from Ciampino Airport: $6.52
  • Bus Transfer Between Airport and Rome Termini Station: $6.52
  • Shuttle Bus Transfer to or from Fiumicino Airport: $7.60
  • Transfer Fiumicino Airport - Rome center: $7.73
  • Transfer Ciampino Airport - Rome center: $7.73
  • Fiumicino Airport from/to Vaticano Transfer: $8.84
  • Civitavecchia Port to/from Vatican City Bus Transfer: $16
  • Rome to Ciampino Airport Rome (CIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $23
  • Ciampino Airport Rome (CIA) to Rome - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Skip the Line: Papal Audience Ticket (optional 1 way transfer): $28
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Optional Cruise Port Transfer: $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Salzburg or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome and Salzburg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Salzburg 41
    Rome 47
Typical Food Prices in Salzburg

Some typical examples of dining costs in Salzburg are as follows:


  • Lunch Salad
    9.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Salzburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Salzburg.

  • Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Class Including Lunch: $60
  • Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg: $61
  • Salzburg Christmas Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Lesson: $61
  • Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner: $83
  • Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $84
  • Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concert with Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $84
  • Mozart Concert with Dinner: $85
  • Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg: $86
  • Dinner Cooking Class - Prezels, Dumplings, Apple Strudel & Music: $87
  • Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg: $94
  • Dinner and Classical Concert at Mirabell Palace: $96
  • Cruise, Dinner & Fortress Concert: $108

Typical Food Prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    14
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    2.99
  • Cafe e doce
    4.00
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    2.65
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    32
  • Cheese and bread
    10
  • Espresso
    2.00
  • Dinner
    58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rome.

  • Hard Rock Cafe Rome with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $32
  • Vatican Street Food Tour and Wine Experience with Local Guide: $32
  • Rome City Center Largest Farmers Market and Street Food Tour : $32
  • Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
  • Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
  • Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
  • Guided Food Tour with Drinks Included in Rome: $34
  • Dinner in Carbonara,Amatriciana,Cacio&Pepe e wine tasting : $35
  • Drunken Food Tour with Dinner in Rome: $36
  • Urban Rafting Tour to Tiber Island with A Local Pizza: $39
  • Cooking Class of fresh Pasta and Tiramisu Cake: $41

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Salzburg 30
    Rome 36

Tours and Activities in Salzburg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Salzburg are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Cathedral Entry Ticket with Audio Guide Option: $5.43
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.46
  • Salzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Sound of Music Sightseeing Walk with Audio Guide: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.06
  • A taste of An audio tour through the birthplace of Mozart: $7.47
  • Sightseeing with the Sound of Music: A Salzburg Audio Tour: $7.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $8.14
  • Salzburg Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Salzburg Cathedral: Guided Tour with Entry Ticket: $9.77
  • Salzburg Oldtown: Sightseeing Walking Tour with Licensed Local Guide: $9.91

Typical Entertainment Prices in Rome

Here are a few typical costs in Rome for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2)
    69
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    33
  • Roma Pass
    30
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    20
  • Segway Tour
    75

Tours and Activities in Rome

Here are a few actual costs in Rome for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bergamo Old Town: Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • PANTHEON Rome Audio Tour Experience: $5.00
  • Shared 4 Hours Guided tour of the House of the Emperor Hadrian: $5.11
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Rome: $5.40
  • Bergamo Old Town: City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.43
  • Civitavecchia's Stories and Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
  • Evening Walking Tour in Rome: $5.51
  • Vatican Night Tour - Rome: $5.51
  • What Emperor Hadrian Lost: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Ancient Rome: $5.99
  • St. Peter's Basilica Rome Audio Tour Experience: $5.99
  • 360 Virtual tour of Ancient Rome: $6.00
  • From 1-Way Bus Ticket to Naples or Vice Versa: $6.48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Salzburg 26
    Rome 18
Typical Alcohol Prices in Salzburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Salzburg:


  • Beer
    3.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Salzburg

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Salzburg:

  • Stiegl Brewery Museum Entry Ticket & Beer Tasting: $16
  • Stiegl Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting: $25
  • Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar: $37
  • Private Austrian Wine Tasting with a Pro-Sommelière: $187

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rome:


  • Bottle of Wine
    6.50
  • Pint of Beer
    6.34
  • Beer
    10

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rome:

  • Trionfale and Prati Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $31
  • Vatican Quarter and Trionfale Farmers Market Food and Wine Tour: $32
  • Cabaret & Burlesque Show: $33
  • Rome's Ultimate Party aka the Spanish Steps Pub Crawl: $46
  • The Best Wine Tasting in Trastevere with food pairing and Gelato: $50
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $53
  • Roman Night Life and Burlesque Show Tour: $54
  • Orange wine tasting : $61
  • Small-Group Exclusive Winery and Wine Tasting Tour in Frascati: $61
  • Frascati Wine Tasting Tour & Vineyards : $65
  • Pasta Making & Wine Tasting in a Trastevere Villa: $69
  • Private Wine Tasting in Trastevere: $72


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


Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Rome in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Rome. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Salzburg is cooler than Rome in the summer. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Rome. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Salzburg 20°C (68°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Rome. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Rome 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 much colder than Rome. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Salzburg in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Rome averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Rome. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Salzburg 11°C (52°F) 
    Rome 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Rome. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Salzburg -0°C (31°F) 
    Rome 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Salzburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Salzburg is cooler than Rome in the spring. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Rome. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in April than Rome. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Salzburg 11°C (51°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Salzburg

Salzburg Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 93 mm (3.6 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 1°C (35°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)