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

Should you visit Salzburg or Strasbourg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Strasbourg, 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a quaint, historic, and charming city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Strasbourg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Salzburg than Strasbourg. While Strasbourg is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Salzburg is more touristy than Strasbourg and is popular 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. Strasbourg is well known for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Strasbourg. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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

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

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 Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Salzburg or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Both Salzburg and Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Salzburg or Strasbourg Better for Music?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for live music. However, Strasbourg is not a live music destination.

Salzburg is known as a music capital 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.

Strasbourg is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg and Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Strasbourg?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Salzburg. 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.

Strasbourg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Salzburg or Strasbourg Better for Families?

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

Salzburg is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Salzburg or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Salzburg or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Salzburg or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Both Salzburg and Strasbourg offer excellent public transit options.

The public transit in Salzburg can get you to most places easily. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Visitors to Strasbourg can move around easily with public transportation. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

Is Salzburg or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is very walkable. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Strasbourg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Salzburg and Strasbourg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than in Strasbourg. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Strasbourg.

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

With live music and food around the beautiful city of Salzburg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Strasbourg offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Salzburg or Strasbourg?

With food and shopping around the destination of Salzburg, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

Five days in Salzburg or Strasbourg?

Salzburg, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

Salzburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Strasbourg 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Salzburg and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Strasbourg?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Strasbourg. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Salzburg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Strasbourg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg this time of the year. In the summer, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in July than Strasbourg. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

Both Strasbourg and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year.

In October, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (52°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during autumn. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Salzburg or Strasbourg in the Winter?

Both Strasbourg and Salzburg during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Strasbourg. It's quite cold in Salzburg in the winter. Salzburg is much colder than Strasbourg in the winter. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in January than Strasbourg. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Strasbourg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Strasbourg. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Strasbourg in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Strasbourg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Salzburg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during spring. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Salzburg