A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tartu vs. Innsbruck for Old Town, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tartu or Innsbruck?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tartu and Innsbruck 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.

Tartu

Tartu is a cultural, historical, and lively university town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a youthful , adventurous, and high energy city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Tartu and Innsbruck: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Tartu or Innsbruck?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Innsbruck. Although Tartu and Innsbruck are roughly the same size, Innsbruck has more sights and attractions for tourists. Innsbruck is more popular for its skiing, food, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Tartu is known for its shopping. Innsbruck is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. It is also home to The Golden Roof in the old town. Tartu is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university.

The Golden Roof in the old town
The Golden Roof in the old town

How is Tartu different from Innsbruck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tartu or Innsbruck Better for Skiing?

Tartu
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a great city for skiing. However, Tartu is not a skiing destination.

Innsbruck draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. This city offers easy access to excellent skiing without having to travel too far. There are 9 ski resorts around town that make up the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck. Each resort has its own personality and style. You can reach the Seegrube mountain in about 20 minutes using the funicular and cable car.

Tartu is not a skiing destination.


Is the Food Better in Tartu or Innsbruck? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tartu
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Innsbruck has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for the hearty and filling food that is perfect for a cold winter day. There are cafes and restaurants around old town that offer traditional dishes including käsespätzle, wiener schnitzel, and apfelstrudel. If you're ready for something a little less heavy, there are a number of ethnic restaurants to choose from outside of the old town.

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Innsbruck Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Innsbruck

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Tartu and Innsbruck.

The nightlife in Tartu has something for everybody. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

Innsbruck offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population and wide range of young visitors who enjoy high energy activities, there's plenty to do here when the sunsets. There are bars and dance clubs that stay active late into the night.

Is Tartu or Innsbruck Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its historic old town.

Innsbruck offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is filled with charming restaurants and cafes as well as comfortable outdoor places to relax when the weather is nice. One of the most notable landmarks is the The Goldenes Dachl, or the "little golden roof", but the atmosphere around old town is what makes this place really special.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Tartu. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.


Is Tartu or Innsbruck Better for Hiking?

Tartu
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a great city for hiking. However, Tartu is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Innsbruck for the hiking trails. The city is nestled in the Austrian mountains with many beautiful hikes just outside of town. There are hikes for all skill levels that offer spectacular views of some of the best scenery in Austria.

Tartu is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Innsbruck?

Tartu
Innsbruck

Tartu is a moderate university town for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Tartu has some nice offerings. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tartu or Innsbruck Better for Families?

Tartu
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Innsbruck. The city has a pleasant atmosphere with a charming old town and plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. There's also the popular Swarovski Crystal Worlds, which is fun for kids and adults alike. The Alpine Zoo and the city's many parks and playgrounds all make it a great stop if you're traveling with kids.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.


Is Tartu or Innsbruck Better for Couples?

Tartu
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a great city for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Innsbruck is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city's old town is filled with restaurants that make for great date nights. There are also many hikes, viewpoints, and activities that are perfect for a couple's getaway.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Tartu or Innsbruck Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Innsbruck

For backpackers, both Tartu and Innsbruck are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Innsbruck. The city has a number of hostels and affordable restaurants that make it a reasonable option for backpackers and budget travelers. Outdoor activities like nearby hiking are affordable ways to spend the day as well.

Is Tartu or Innsbruck Better for Students?

Tartu
Innsbruck

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

Tartu is a very popular university town for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Many students visit Innsbruck. The city's laid back vibe and wide range of universities make it a great place for students. There are cafes, bars, and many outdoor activities that students enjoy while they're in the area.


Is Tartu or Innsbruck Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tartu
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Innsbruck. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Tartu or Innsbruck a more walkable city?

Tartu
Innsbruck

Tartu and Innsbruck are great when it comes to walkability.

Tartu is a very walkable destination. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

Innsbruck is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable, and if you stay anywhere nearby, it's easy to reach it on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Tartu Worth Visiting? and Is Innsbruck Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Innsbruck or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Innsbruck?

It's fun to spend time in either Tartu or Innsbruck. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Innsbruck due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Tartu, and 2-4 days is enough time in Innsbruck.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Innsbruck than Tartu 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 Innsbruck.


  • How many days in Tartu or Innsbruck? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Innsbruck 2-4

One day in Tartu or Innsbruck?

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

In Innsbruck, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this adventurous 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.


A weekend in Tartu or Innsbruck?

You'll find nightlife around the student-oriented destination of Tartu. 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 university town has to offer. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Innsbruck. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Five days in Tartu or Innsbruck?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the lively university town of Tartu. 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.

Innsbruck is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the quaint destination of Innsbruck. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tartu or Innsbruck?

Tartu 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.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the scenic destination of Innsbruck. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg.


Which place is cheaper, Innsbruck or Tartu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tartu is €105, while the average daily cost in Innsbruck is €129. 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 Tartu and Innsbruck in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Innsbruck 76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Innsbruck 152
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Innsbruck

Looking for a hotel in Tartu or Innsbruck? 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 Tartu


Hotels in Innsbruck


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: Tartu Hotel Prices and Innsbruck Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Innsbruck 15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Salzburg: $256
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Munich, English Speaking Driver: $197
  • Private transfer from Innsbruck airport: $196
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Silvretta Arena - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • St Anton am Arlberg to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $104
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN)to Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Round-Trip Transfer: $98
  • Innsbruck Airport INN to Alpbach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Innsbruck Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Round-Trip Transfer: $76
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Silvretta Arena Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Soelden - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Kitzbühel/SkiWelt - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Tartu or Innsbruck?

Prices for flights to both Innsbruck and Tartu 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
    Tartu 37
    Innsbruck 40
Typical Food Prices in Tartu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tartu:


  • Danishes
    0.76
  • Lunch for Two
    4.93
  • Ice Cream
    1.27
  • Cookies
    0.51
  • Coffee & Cake
    3.47

Typical Food Prices in Innsbruck

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


  • Soup for Lunch
    3.75
  • Pasta Lunch
    8.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Innsbruck

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

  • Half-Day Food Tour of Tyrolean Cuisine: $148
  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tartu 16
    Innsbruck 19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Tartu

For Tartu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Art Museum ticket
    0.95
  • Movie Ticket
    3.47

Tours and Activities in Tartu

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tartu.

  • European Capital of Culture 2024 - Cycling Tour: $14
  • Around Viljandi bike tour: $27
  • TARTU COUNTRY: SLED DOG TOUR & KENNEL VISIT: $75
  • Magical Tartu Romantic Walking Tour: $127
  • Charming Viljandi Walking Tour for Couples: $142
  • Spectacular Christmas Walking Tour in Viljandi: $199
  • Traditional Christmas Walking Tour in Tartu: $234

Typical Entertainment Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Schloss Ambras Entrance
    8.00
  • Botanical Garden Entrance Fee
    2.00

Tours and Activities in Innsbruck

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

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Innsbruck: $155
  • AREA 47 Water AREA Entrance Ticket: $35
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $21
  • Austrian Hidden Gem Tour: The Most Beautiful Villages: $191
  • Bergisel Ski Jump Arena Entrance Ticket in Innsbruck: $11
  • Bergisel SkiJump Area guided Tour incl Tickets: $85
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $20
  • Cultural and culinary pleasure tour through Innsbruck's old town: $180
  • Full day small group Tour in Neuschwanstein from Innsbruck: $213
  • Full-Day small group tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes, Braies : $217
  • Gin experience Tyrol: $120
  • Hungerburg: Roundtrip Funicular Tickets from Innsbruck: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tartu 16
    Innsbruck 19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tartu and Innsbruck, we can see that Innsbruck is more expensive. And not only is Tartu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tartu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tartu 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 Innsbruck would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Innsbruck than you might in Tartu.

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


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Innsbruck?

Innsbruck has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Tartu and Innsbruck, 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.