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

Should you visit Vienna or Florence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Florence, 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 musical, ritzy, and classical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Vienna and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Florence?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Florence than Vienna. While Vienna is larger than Florence, Florence has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Florence is better known for its museums and food, while Vienna is more popular for its music and shopping. Vienna is well known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Vienna different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence 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 Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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

Florence is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Dining out in Vienna is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Vienna or Florence Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Vienna and Florence.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Vienna. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Florence has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Vienna or Florence Better for Music?

Vienna is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Vienna. 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.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Vienna or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Vienna and Florence both have amazing 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 Florence can be explored in its historical center. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Florence?

Vienna is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Vienna draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Vienna or Florence Better for Families?

Vienna and Florence are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Vienna is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Florence. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Vienna or Florence Better for Couples?

Vienna and Florence are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Vienna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Florence is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Is Vienna or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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

Is Vienna or Florence Better for Students?

Both Vienna and Florence are amazing 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.

Florence is a very popular city for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

Vienna is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Vienna or Florence a more walkable city?

Vienna and Florence are amazing 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 Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Florence?

Both Vienna and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Vienna. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Vienna or Florence?

The beautiful city of Vienna offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. 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 Florence?

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

Florence 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.

Five days in Vienna or Florence?

Vienna is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vienna, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. 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 Florence?

Vienna is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the alluring destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Vienna and Florence, we can see that Florence 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 Vienna Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Vienna or Florence?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Vienna and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Vienna or Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Vienna and Florence. The summer months attract visitors to Vienna because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Vienna is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vienna usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vienna usually receives more rain than Florence. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vienna or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Vienna as well as Florence. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vienna this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Vienna is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vienna in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Vienna often gets less sunshine than Florence. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Vienna are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vienna. In January, Vienna is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 2°C (36°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Vienna usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vienna usually receives less rain than Florence. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vienna or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Vienna during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vienna in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the natural beauty during these months.

Vienna is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Vienna. In the spring, Vienna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Florence. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Vienna