A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Utrecht vs. Linz for Old Town, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Utrecht or Linz?

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

Should I visit Utrecht or Linz? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Linz

Linz is a historic, beautiful, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Utrecht and Linz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town


Is there more to do in Utrecht or Linz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Utrecht than Linz. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Utrecht is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Linz attracts visitors for its museums. Utrecht is famous for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. It is also well known for the Dom Tower. Linz is famous for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries.

How is Utrecht different from Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Utrecht or Linz?

Utrecht
Linz

Linz is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its museums and history.

Linz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.


Is the Food Better in Utrecht or Linz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Utrecht
Linz

Foodies will find both Utrecht and Linz both to be nice destinations.

Utrecht offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Linz has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Utrecht or Linz Better for Nightlife?

Utrecht
Linz

Utrecht is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

Utrecht offers plenty to do in the evening. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Utrecht or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Utrecht
Linz

Utrecht is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Utrecht is revered around the world. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.


Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Linz?

Utrecht
Linz

Both Utrecht and Linz are excellent shopping destinations.

Utrecht is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Linz is well-known for its shopping. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

Is Utrecht or Linz Better for Families?

Utrecht
Linz

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Utrecht or Linz.

Utrecht is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Linz is a family-friendly . Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Utrecht or Linz Better for Couples?

Utrecht
Linz

With fun activities for couples, both Utrecht and Linz make for a excellent place to visit.

Utrecht is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

Linz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.


Is Utrecht or Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Utrecht
Linz

Utrecht is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Utrecht is a great to visit for backpackers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

Plenty of backpackers visit Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Is Utrecht or Linz Better for Students?

Utrecht
Linz

Utrecht is a well-known place for students. However, Linz is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Utrecht. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Linz is not popular with students.

Is Utrecht or Linz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Utrecht
Linz

Utrecht is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Utrecht can get you to some places easily. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.


Is Utrecht or Linz a more walkable city?

Utrecht
Linz

Utrecht is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Utrecht on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

Linz is a very walkable destination. The tourist areas are easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Utrecht Worth Visiting? and Is Linz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Linz or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Linz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Utrecht or Linz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Utrecht than Linz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Utrecht, and 1-2 days is enough time in Linz.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Utrecht than Linz 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 Utrecht.


  • How many days in Utrecht or Linz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Utrecht 1-3 
    Linz 1-2

One day in Utrecht or Linz?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Utrecht. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Linz, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Utrecht or Linz?

Utrecht is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Linz, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Linz has to offer.


Five days in Utrecht or Linz?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Utrecht. This offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Linz is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Utrecht or Linz?

The canal-filled of Utrecht offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Linz. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Linz. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Linz or Utrecht?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Utrecht is €189, while the average daily cost in Linz is €114. 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 Utrecht and Linz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Utrecht 106
    Linz 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Utrecht 212
    Linz 116
Compare Hotels in Utrecht and Linz

Looking for a hotel in Utrecht or Linz? 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 Utrecht


Hotels in Linz


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: Utrecht Hotel Prices and Linz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Utrecht 23
    Linz 41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $101
  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $120

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $180
  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Utrecht or Linz?

Prices for flights to both Linz and Utrecht 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
    Utrecht 58
    Linz 32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Utrecht

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

  • City Boat Tour & Balkan Restaurant Lunch OR Dinner: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour like a local. Eat, walk, enjoy.: $70
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $71
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $71
  • Guided Food Tour: $79

Typical Food Prices in Linz

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


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    4.20
  • Lunch
    8.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Utrecht 44
    Linz 13

Tours and Activities in Utrecht

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

  • Hoge Woerd Museum Entry Ticket with Audio Tour: $4.28
  • Utrecht Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $5.45
  • Highlights walking Tour in Utrecht with Audio and GPS Guide: $6.06
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • De Haar Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $7.49
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $11
  • Lofen Palace Time Travel with Entry Ticket & Guide: $12
  • Guided Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $13
  • Dom Tower Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Linz

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

  • Linz Harbor Cruise: $15
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • What the bloody hell is there in Linz? 1,5 hour walking tour: $24
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private History Tour with a Linzer Cake Tasting: $149
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176
  • Linz Old Town Highlights Walking Tour with Pöstlingbergbahn: $191
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $205
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour: $210
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour : $214

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Utrecht 24
    Linz 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Utrecht

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:

  • Utrecht Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Utrecht Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21


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

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


Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Linz?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 60% larger than the population of Linz. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht and Linz, 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 Utrecht or Linz?

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 Utrecht or Linz in the Summer?

Both Linz and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Utrecht in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Linz for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Utrecht is cooler than Linz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Utrecht in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Linz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Linz. Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Linz during summer. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Utrecht usually receives less rain than Linz. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Utrecht 17°C (62°F) 
    Linz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Linz in the Autumn?

Both Linz and Utrecht during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Utrecht for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Linz because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Utrecht is generally around the same temperature as Linz. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 11°C (51°F), and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Linz. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets more rain in October than Linz. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Utrecht 11°C (51°F) 
    Linz 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Linz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Linz. The winter months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Linz this time of year.

It's quite cold in Linz in the winter. The weather in Utrecht can be very cold. Utrecht is much warmer than Linz in the winter. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Linz fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Linz during winter. Utrecht gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Linz. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Utrecht 2°C (36°F) 
    Linz -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Utrecht or Linz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Linz. The natural beauty are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Linz for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Utrecht is cooler than Linz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Utrecht in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Linz averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Utrecht often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Linz. Utrecht gets 156 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun.

Utrecht usually gets less rain in April than Linz. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Utrecht 8°C (46°F) 
    Linz 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Linz and Utrecht

Utrecht Linz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) -0°C (31°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)