A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vienna vs. Boston for Attractions, Music, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Vienna or Boston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Boston, 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.

Vienna

Vienna is a classical, traditional, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Vienna and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Boston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Boston than Vienna. While Vienna is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, beaches, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Vienna attracts visitors for its music, shopping, and impressive beauty. Vienna is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail.

How is Vienna different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Vienna or Boston?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Boston are world-renowned. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Vienna. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a very popular place for its theatre productions. However, Vienna is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Vienna is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Vienna or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Vienna and Boston can be an enjoyable experience.

Vienna has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Dining out in Boston is an experience not to be missed. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Boston is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Boston has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Music?

Vienna is an unbeatable place for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

Vienna is a world class music destination. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Vienna is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Vienna is not a beach destination.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Vienna and Boston both have world-class historical old towns that attract visitors.

With a famous historical old-town, Vienna offers plenty to see. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

The rich history of Boston can be explored in its historical center. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Boston?

Vienna is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Vienna is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Vienna does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Vienna does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Vienna does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Vienna does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Couples?

Vienna is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Vienna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vienna and Boston are both nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Vienna. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Boston is a good city to visit for backpackers. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Students?

Both Vienna and Boston are world-class destinations for students.

Vienna is a great destination for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Boston is a very popular city for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Is Vienna or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find world-class public transit in both Vienna and Boston.

Visitors in Vienna can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

Boston has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Is Vienna or Boston a more walkable city?

Vienna and Boston are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Vienna Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Boston?

In either Vienna or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Boston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Boston than Vienna. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Vienna 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 Boston.

One day in Vienna or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Vienna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Vienna or Boston?

Vienna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Boston is a great place to explore. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Vienna or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vienna. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Vienna or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the musical destination of Vienna. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the historic big city of Boston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Vienna and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Vienna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Vienna is in Europe and Boston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Vienna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vienna 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Vienna.

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

Which is Bigger, Vienna or Boston?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Vienna and Boston, 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 Vienna or Boston?

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 Vienna or Boston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vienna as well as Boston. Many travelers come to Vienna for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Vienna is generally around the same temperature as Boston. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 23°C (73°F), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vienna this time of the year. In the summer, Vienna often gets less sunshine than Boston. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in July than Boston. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Boston in the Autumn?

Both Boston and Vienna are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Vienna in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Vienna is around the same temperature as Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Vienna usually receives less sunshine than Boston during autumn. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vienna usually receives less rain than Boston. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vienna or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Vienna during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Boston can be very cold. Vienna can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Vienna is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vienna in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Vienna often gets less sunshine than Boston. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Boston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vienna and Boston. The spring months attract visitors to Vienna because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In April, Vienna is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 13°C (55°F), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vienna usually receives less sunshine than Boston during spring. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vienna usually receives less rain than Boston. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Boston and Vienna