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

Should you visit Salzburg or Siena?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Siena, 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Siena

Siena is a charming, medieval, and history city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Siena?

You'll generally find more things to do in Salzburg than Siena. Salzburg is bigger than Siena, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Salzburg is more touristy than Siena and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Also, Salzburg is famous for The Salzburg Old Town. Siena is well known for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Siena. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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

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

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 Siena. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Is Salzburg or Siena Better for Nightlife?

Both Salzburg and Siena are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Salzburg or Siena Better for Music?

Salzburg is very popular for live music. However, Siena is not a live music destination.

Salzburg is a world class music destination. 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.

Siena is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg and Siena both have terrific 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 Siena is one of the most recognized in the world. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Siena?

Salzburg is very popular for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Salzburg or Siena Better for Families?

Salzburg is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Salzburg is 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Salzburg or Siena Better for Couples?

Salzburg and Siena are both terrific to visit as a couple.

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.

Siena is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

Is Salzburg or Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Salzburg or Siena Better for Students?

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

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.

Siena is a great city to visit as a student. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

Salzburg is notable for its public transit. Also, Siena 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 is fairly effecient and thorough. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Salzburg or Siena a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Siena both are excellent 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.

Siena is very walkable. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Siena?

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

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

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.

The beautiful city of Siena offers food and shopping. 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 Siena?

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.

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

Five days in Salzburg or Siena?

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.

Siena 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 Siena?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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.

Siena 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Siena?

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

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 Siena in the Summer?

Both Siena and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Siena because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Salzburg is cooler than Siena. Typically, the summer temperatures in Salzburg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Siena averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Siena. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Siena during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Siena. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Siena in the Autumn?

Both Siena and Salzburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

In October, Salzburg is generally cooler than Siena. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (52°F), and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Siena. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Siena. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Siena in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Siena. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Siena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Salzburg in the winter. Salzburg is much colder than Siena in the winter. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Siena fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Siena during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Siena. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Siena in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Siena. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Siena in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Salzburg is cooler than Siena. Typically, the spring temperatures in Salzburg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Siena averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Siena. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in April than Siena. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Siena and Salzburg