A Travel Price Comparison for Austria Vienna vs. Kitzbuhel for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Vienna or Kitzbuhel?

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

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

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a adventure-filled, world-class, and breathtaking ski resort. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Vienna and Kitzbuhel: 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 for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Vienna or Kitzbuhel?

Both Kitzbuhel and Vienna have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Vienna is better known for its museums, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Kitzbuhel is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and small town charm. Vienna is more touristy than Kitzbuhel and is known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Kitzbuhel is well known for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities.

How is Vienna different from Kitzbuhel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Vienna or Kitzbuhel Better for Skiing?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is an unbeatable place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Vienna is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Kitzbuhel is among the best in the world. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Vienna is not a skiing destination.


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

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Vienna is great for its historical sights. However, Kitzbuhel is not a good destination 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.

Kitzbuhel offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

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

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Dining out at restaurants in both Vienna and Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel is an experience not to be missed. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

Is Vienna or Kitzbuhel Better for Nightlife?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

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 Kitzbuhel Better for Music?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Vienna is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel is not a live music destination.

Is Vienna or Kitzbuhel Better for its Old Town?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Vienna is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its historic old town charm.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Is Vienna or Kitzbuhel Better for Hiking?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kitzbuhel draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Vienna is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Kitzbuhel?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Vienna is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort 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.

Many visitors go to Kitzbuhel to go shopping. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Is Vienna or Kitzbuhel Better for Families?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kitzbuhel is very family-friendly. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

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 Kitzbuhel Better for Couples?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Vienna is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort 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.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.


Is Vienna or Kitzbuhel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kitzbuhel. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded 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 Kitzbuhel Better for Students?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Vienna is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

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

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Vienna is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort 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.

Kitzbuhel has a few public transit options. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.


Is Vienna or Kitzbuhel a more walkable city?

Vienna
Kitzbuhel

Vienna is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its ease of walking around.

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

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable destination. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kitzbuhel or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Kitzbuhel?

Both Vienna and Kitzbuhel have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Vienna. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 4-7 days is enough time in Kitzbuhel.

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

Couples should spend more time in Vienna than Kitzbuhel. 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.


  • How many days in Vienna or Kitzbuhel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vienna 2-5 
    Kitzbuhel 4-7

One day in Vienna or Kitzbuhel?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Vienna. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel?

You'll find live music and food around the musical destination of Vienna. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Kitzbuhel is a great place to explore. 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 Kitzbuhel?

You'll find food and shopping around the artistic city of Vienna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kitzbuhel. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Kitzbuhel?

Vienna 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.

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Austria, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel is €179. 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 Kitzbuhel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vienna 94
    Kitzbuhel 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vienna 188
    Kitzbuhel 178
Compare Hotels in Vienna and Kitzbuhel

Looking for a hotel in Vienna or Kitzbuhel? 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 Kitzbuhel


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 Kitzbuhel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vienna 19
    Kitzbuhel 69
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: $927
  • Private transfer from Vienna to Munich: $927
  • Melk Abbey and Salzburg Trip with Private Transfer: $919
  • Private transfer from Vienna to Salzburg: $735
  • Private transfer from Vienna to Prague: $634
  • Private One-Way Transfer to Cesky Krumlov: $624
  • Private transfer from Vienna to Budapest: $586
  • Transfer from Prague to Vienna: $578
  • Transfer by Car to/from Vienna & Budapest: $442
  • 2-in-1 Jewish Museums in Vienna Private Tour with Transfers: $359
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Vienna to Prague with 4h of Sightseeing: $294
  • Private Transfer from Vienna to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $288

Is it cheaper to fly into Vienna or Kitzbuhel?

Prices for flights to both Kitzbuhel 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
    Kitzbuhel 48

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
  • Hard Rock Cafe Vienna with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Performance Of The Lipizzans At Spanish Riding School: $43
  • Naschmarkt Food Tour: $64
  • Traditional Vienna Tasting Dinner With Folk Music: $68
  • Naschmarkt Guided Food Tour: $74
  • 3-Course Evening Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Traditional Dinner Show at the Wiener Rathauskeller: $84
  • Skip the Line: Austrian Dinner Show Ticket in Vienna: $86
  • Schnitzel cooking class with Nicole: $98
  • Strauss & Mozart Concert in Kursalon with Dinner: $100
  • 3-Course Dinner and Concert at Schönbrunn Palace: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vienna 38
    Kitzbuhel 34

Tours and Activities in Vienna

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

  • Private Spooky Vienna Ghost Tour : $250
  • Private themed Tour of the Art History Museum (Kunsthistorisches Museum):"The Saviour, the Ruler, and Simply a Beauty: Women in Art": $163
  • "Girls just want to have Wine" - TUK TUK Sightseeing Tour: $151
  • "The Third Man" Film Location Tour: $28
  • 2 Hour Private Alpine Hiking, Gosing Mountain Vienna Tour: $167
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Vienna with Photography: $83
  • 2-Hour Alpine Private Hiking Tour along Luckerte Wand Mountain from Vienna: $167
  • 2-Hour Private Hiking Tour to Meet History at Braunsberg Mountain from Vienna: $167
  • 3 hour private walking tour - Vienna: $137
  • 3-Hour Private Hiking Tour over Parapluie Mountain with a View of Vienna: $209
  • 3-Hour Private Hiking Tour to historic places around Spitz in Wachau Valley: $251
  • 3-Hour Walking Tour of Vienna Central Cemetery: $319

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vienna 17
    Kitzbuhel 11

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
  • City Center Pub Crawl: $27
  • Local Pub Crawl Vienna: $27
  • Wine Tasting at Traditional Cellar: $34
  • Guided Wine Tasting in a Private Wine Cellar: $38
  • Viennese Wine Tasting in a Private Hidden Wine Cellar: $39
  • Wine Tasting at Schönbrunn Palace: $48
  • Wine Tasting at Schönbrunn Palace with optional Palace Ticket: $49
  • 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 Kitzbuhel, we can see that Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Vienna or Kitzbuhel?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Vienna and Kitzbuhel, 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.