A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Salzburg for Music, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Stockholm or Salzburg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Stockholm and Salzburg can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a beautiful, clean, and coastal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a historic, beautiful, and musical city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Stockholm and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Salzburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stockholm than Salzburg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Stockholm is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Salzburg is known for its food, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Stockholm and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Stockholm is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also home to Gamla Stan (the old town).

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Salzburg and Stockholm. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stockholm or Salzburg?

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Stockholm and Salzburg.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Stockholm or Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salzburg is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Stockholm or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

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 Stockholm or Salzburg Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Stockholm or Salzburg.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

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.

Is Stockholm or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Both Stockholm and Salzburg have first-rate historic old towns worth visiting.

The rich history of Stockholm can be explored in its historical center. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Salzburg?

Salzburg is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is Stockholm or Salzburg Better for Families?

Stockholm is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Stockholm is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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.

Is Stockholm or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Both Stockholm and Salzburg are first-rate destinations for a couple's getaway.

Stockholm is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

Salzburg is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Is Stockholm or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Salzburg is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Stockholm or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Salzburg is a very popular city 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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

Stockholm 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 Stockholm can take you anywhere. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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

Is Stockholm or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting? and Is Salzburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Salzburg?

In either Stockholm or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than Salzburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Stockholm than Salzburg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Stockholm that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg than Stockholm 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 Stockholm or Salzburg?

Stockholm is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint city of Salzburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stockholm or Salzburg?

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

You'll find live music and food around the historic destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Salzburg?

Stockholm is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stockholm, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Salzburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Stockholm or Salzburg?

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Salzburg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Salzburg?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Salzburg, 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 Stockholm or Salzburg?

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 Stockholm or Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Salzburg. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Stockholm is around the same temperature as Salzburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stockholm in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Salzburg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg this time of the year. In Stockholm, it's very sunny this time of the year. Stockholm usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stockholm or Salzburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Salzburg. The autumn months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

In October, Stockholm is generally cooler than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 8°C (46°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Salzburg. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Salzburg. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Salzburg. It's quite cold in Stockholm in the winter. Stockholm is much colder than Salzburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Salzburg during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stockholm or Salzburg in the Spring?

Both Salzburg and Stockholm during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Stockholm is much colder than Salzburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stockholm in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Salzburg. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Stockholm