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

Should you visit Vienna or Fussen?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Fussen, 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 traditional, artistic, and musical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Fussen

Fussen is a storybook, quaint, and charming town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Vienna and Fussen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Neuschwanstein Castle
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Vienna or Fussen?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vienna than Fussen, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vienna is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Fussen is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Vienna is more touristy than Fussen and is known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Also, Vienna is famous for The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Fussen is well known for its romantic atmosphere and its proximity to the Neuschwanstein Castle.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace
The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Vienna different from Fussen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna is great for its historical sights. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Vienna offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Fussen. Most people stopping in town are on their way to or from the Neuschwanstein Castle. It is one of the most famous castles in Germany as many people say it was the inspiration for the Disney Castle.


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

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Fussen area. Many restaurants embrace the fairytale setting and offer their own storybook atmosphere. This is a well worn tourist path, so you'll find a number of restaurants serving traditional dishes specifically for the tourists.

Is Vienna or Fussen Better for Nightlife?

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Fussen is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Vienna has a few options to choose from. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Fussen is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Vienna or Fussen Better for Music?

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Fussen 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.

Fussen is not a live music destination.


Is Vienna or Fussen Better for its Old Town?

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna and Fussen both have fantastic 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 Fussen can be explored in its historical center. The small old town is filled with classic German charm.

Is Vienna or Fussen Better for Hiking?

Vienna
Fussen

Fussen is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Fussen. The countryside offers a number of beautiful trails that pass through forests and meadows. You'll also find waterfalls and nice viewpoints. The hikes are very well marked with excellent signage.

Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Fussen?

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Fussen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Fussen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Vienna or Fussen Better for Families?

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna and Fussen 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 Fussen. Neuschwanstein Castle is not far away, and it's a big part of why some families may stay in this small town. Kids will also enjoy wandering around the old town and grabbing ice cream. Just outside of town is Lechfall, which is a manmade waterfall and a little further is the Treetop Walkway. The surrounding area also has a lot of natural beauty as well as giant alpine slides.

Is Vienna or Fussen Better for Couples?

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

Vienna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Fussen is a very popular place to visit for couples. It sits at the end of Germany's Romantic Road and the small town does not disappoint. For many, it's a stopover while visiting the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, but the surrounding countryside is also beautiful and worth exploring.

Is Vienna or Fussen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna and Fussen are both notable 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.

Fussen is a good city to visit for backpackers. For its small size, the town has a number of hostels to choose from. Prices are reasonable, so this is a nice option for backpackers passing through the area.


Is Vienna or Fussen Better for Students?

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Fussen is not popular with students.

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

Fussen is not popular with students.

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

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Vienna is top-notch. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

Fussen has a few public transit options. There are buses through the region including buses to Neuschwanstein Castle.

Is Vienna or Fussen a more walkable city?

Vienna
Fussen

Vienna and Fussen are fantastic 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 Fussen on foot is easy. It's easy to walk from one side of the old town to the other in half an hour.


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

Should I spend more time in Fussen or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Fussen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vienna and Fussen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vienna than in Fussen. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 2-3 days is enough time in Fussen.

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

Couples should spend more time in Vienna than Fussen. 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 Vienna than Fussen 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 Vienna.


  • How many days in Vienna or Fussen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vienna 2-5 
    Fussen 2-3

One day in Vienna or Fussen?

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.

Fussen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Vienna or Fussen?

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.

Fussen 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 Fussen?

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 Fussen. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Vienna or Fussen?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the ritzy 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.

Fussen is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Oktoberfest Tours in Germany, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Fussen or Vienna?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Vienna is €151, while the average daily cost in Fussen is €210. 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 Vienna and Fussen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vienna 94
    Fussen 109
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vienna 188
    Fussen 218
Compare Hotels in Vienna and Fussen

Looking for a hotel in Vienna or Fussen? 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 Vienna


Hotels in Fussen


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: Vienna Hotel Prices and Fussen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vienna 19
    Fussen 54
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Vienna

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Vienna:


  • Bus to Airport
    30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vienna

Also for Vienna, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private transfer from Vienna to Zagreb: $930
  • Private transfer from Vienna to Munich: $930
  • Melk Abbey and Salzburg Trip with Private Transfer: $922
  • Private transfer from Vienna to Salzburg: $738
  • Private transfer from Vienna to Prague: $636
  • Private One-Way Transfer to Cesky Krumlov: $629
  • Private transfer from Vienna to Budapest: $588
  • Transfer from Prague to Vienna: $510
  • Transfer by Car to/from Vienna & Budapest: $444
  • 2-in-1 Jewish Museums in Vienna Private Tour with Transfers: $361
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Vienna to Prague with 4h of Sightseeing: $295
  • Private Transfer from Vienna to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $289

Is it cheaper to fly into Vienna or Fussen?

Prices for flights to both Fussen and Vienna 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
    Vienna 33
    Fussen 59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Vienna

For Vienna, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $28
  • Performance Of The Lipizzans At Spanish Riding School: $43
  • Naschmarkt Food Tour: $64
  • Vienna Naschmarket Food Tour: $65
  • Traditional Vienna Tasting Dinner With Folk Music: $68
  • Traditional Vienna Tasting Dinner with Folk Music: $70
  • Naschmarkt Guided Food Tour: $74
  • Vienna Evening Sightseeing Cruise With Music and Dinner: $74
  • 3-Course Evening Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Traditional Dinner Show at the Wiener Rathauskeller: $84
  • Kursalon New Year's Day Concert with optional Dinner: $87
  • Schnitzel cooking class with Nicole: $98

Typical Food Prices in Fussen

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


  • Lunch
    10

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vienna 38
    Fussen 60

Tours and Activities in Vienna

For Vienna, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private themed Tour of the Art History Museum (Kunsthistorisches Museum):"The Saviour, the Ruler, and Simply a Beauty: Women in Art": $164
  • "Girls just want to have Wine" - TUK TUK Sightseeing Tour: $152
  • "The Third Man" Film Location Tour: $28
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Vienna with Photography: $98
  • 2-Hour Alpine Private Hiking Tour along Luckerte Wand Mountain from Vienna: $168
  • 2-Hour Private Hiking Tour Helenental Castles Hike from Vienna: $168
  • 2-Hour Private Hiking Tour to Meet History at Braunsberg Mountain from Vienna: $168
  • 2-hour Private Alpine Hiking Tour on Seekopf Mountain, Wachau Valley from Vienna: $168
  • 3 hour private walking tour - Vienna: $138
  • 3-Hour Private Hiking Tour to historic places around Spitz in Wachau Valley: $252
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Vienna: $164
  • 3-Hour Walking Tour of Vienna Central Cemetery: $320

Tours and Activities in Fussen

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

  • Füssen Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $254
  • Neuschwanstein Castle Ticket +Guide: $41
  • Neuschwanstein Castle Tour with Skip the Line from Hohenschwangau: $64
  • Neuschwanstein ticket+ City Bike from Fuessen: $51
  • Private tour of the best of Fussen - Sightseeing, Food & Culture with a local: $225
  • Skip The Line Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Hohenschwangau: $60
  • Skip the Line: Neuschwanstein Castle Private Tour From Füssen or Hohenschwangau: $270
  • Skip-the-Line: Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Hohenschwangau: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vienna 17
    Fussen 20

Sample the Local Flavors in Vienna

Also in Vienna, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Vienna: $16
  • Vienna Nights Pub Crawl: $16
  • City Center Pub Crawl: $27
  • Local Pub Crawl Vienna: $27
  • Wine Tasting at Traditional Cellar: $34
  • Guided Wine Tasting in a Private Wine Cellar: $39
  • Viennese Wine Tasting in a Private Hidden Wine Cellar: $39
  • Wine Tasting at Schönbrunn Palace: $48
  • Austrian Wine Tasting Experience: $63
  • Vienna Historical Highlight City Tour + Wine Tasting: $74
  • Skip-the-Line Schönbrunn Palace Entry & Wine Tasting: $82
  • Wine Tasting E-Bike Tour: $91


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Vienna and Fussen, we can see that Fussen is more expensive. And not only is Vienna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Fussen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fussen 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 Fussen Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Vienna or Fussen?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Fussen. When comparing the sizes of Vienna and Fussen, 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.