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

Should you visit Stockholm or Siena?

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 Siena 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 expensive, beautiful, and clean city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Siena

Siena is a medieval, history, and beautiful city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Siena?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stockholm than Siena. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Stockholm is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Siena attracts visitors for its food. Stockholm is famous for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also well known for Gamla Stan (the old town). Siena is famous for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Stockholm and Siena.

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 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 Stockholm or Siena? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Siena 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 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.

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 Siena Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm is notable for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Stockholm has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 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 Stockholm or Siena Better for Music?

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

Stockholm is a world class music destination. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Siena is not a live music destination.

Is Stockholm or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Both Stockholm and Siena have amazing 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.

Siena has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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 Stockholm or Siena?

Stockholm is notable for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Stockholm is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm or Siena Better for Families?

Stockholm is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Stockholm is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

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 Stockholm or Siena Better for Couples?

Both Stockholm and Siena are amazing 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.

Siena is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Stockholm or Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm and Siena are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Stockholm is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Stockholm or Siena Better for Students?

Siena is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Siena. 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.

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

Stockholm is very popular 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.

Stockholm has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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 Stockholm or Siena a more walkable city?

Stockholm is very popular for its walkability. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Siena?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stockholm or Siena to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Stockholm than Siena because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-2 days is enough time in Siena.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Siena. 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 Siena. 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm.

One day in Stockholm or Siena?

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the live music. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Siena. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Siena has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stockholm or Siena?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Siena. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Siena?

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the live music. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the romantic city of Siena. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stockholm or Siena?

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stockholm and Siena, we can see that Stockholm 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 Stockholm would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stockholm 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 Stockholm Expensive? and Is Siena Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Siena?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Siena. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm or Siena in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Siena. Many visitors come to Stockholm in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Siena for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Stockholm is generally cooler than Siena. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°F), and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Siena this time of the year. In Stockholm, it's very sunny this time of the year. Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Siena during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives more rain than Siena. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stockholm or Siena in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Siena. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Siena because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Stockholm is much colder than Siena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Siena. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in October than Siena. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Siena in the Winter?

Both Siena and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

The weather in Stockholm can be very cold. In the winter, Stockholm is much colder than Siena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Siena averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Siena during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Siena. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stockholm or Siena in the Spring?

Both Siena and Stockholm during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Siena for the natural beauty.

In April, Stockholm is generally much colder than Siena. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Siena. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Siena. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Siena and Stockholm