A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vienna vs. Leipzig for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Vienna or Leipzig?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Leipzig, 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a growing, dynamic, and cultural city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Vienna and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Vienna or Leipzig?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vienna than Leipzig. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Vienna is very popular for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Leipzig attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Vienna is more touristy than Leipzig and is known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. It is also well known for The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Leipzig is famous for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace
The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Vienna different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vienna
Leipzig

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Vienna and Leipzig.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Vienna can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.


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

Vienna
Leipzig

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Vienna. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Vienna or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Vienna
Leipzig

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Vienna and Leipzig.

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.

Leipzig has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Vienna or Leipzig Better for Music?

Vienna
Leipzig

Vienna is terrific for live music. However, Leipzig is not a live music destination.

Vienna is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Leipzig is not a live music destination.


Is Vienna or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

Vienna
Leipzig

Vienna is terrific for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Vienna has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Leipzig?

Vienna
Leipzig

Vienna is terrific for shopping. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Vienna. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Leipzig is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

Is Vienna or Leipzig Better for Families?

Vienna
Leipzig

Vienna and Leipzig are both nice 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 Leipzig. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.


Is Vienna or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Vienna
Leipzig

Vienna is terrific for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

Is Vienna or Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vienna
Leipzig

Vienna and Leipzig 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.

Leipzig is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Vienna or Leipzig Better for Students?

Vienna
Leipzig

Vienna is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with 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.

Leipzig is not popular with students.


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

Vienna
Leipzig

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Vienna can take you anywhere. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

Public transit in Leipzig can get you to some places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Is Vienna or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Vienna
Leipzig

Vienna is terrific for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Leipzig?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Vienna and Leipzig. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vienna than in Leipzig. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 1-3 days is enough time in Leipzig.

Families should spend more time in Vienna than Leipzig. 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 Leipzig. 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig? Ideal Length of Stay
    Vienna 2-5 
    Leipzig 1-3

One day in Vienna or Leipzig?

In Vienna, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Leipzig. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Vienna or Leipzig?

In Vienna, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer.

Leipzig 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 Leipzig?

Vienna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vienna. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Vienna. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the growing destination of Leipzig. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Leipzig 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 Leipzig is €166. 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 Leipzig in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Vienna 94
    Leipzig 91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Vienna 188
    Leipzig 182
Compare Hotels in Vienna and Leipzig

Looking for a hotel in Vienna or Leipzig? 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 Leipzig


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 Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Vienna 19
    Leipzig 27
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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

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

  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Vienna or Leipzig?

Prices for flights to both Leipzig 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
    Leipzig 53

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

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

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Vienna 38
    Leipzig 36

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 Leipzig

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

  • 1.5-Hour Historical Tour of Leipzig with Costumed Guide: $21
  • 2 hours Leipzig exclusive: Private city tour with Panorama Tower: $217
  • Big city tour Leipzig Hop on hop off: $20
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig Südvorstadt - independent discovery tour: $43
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig city center - independent city tour: $43
  • City tour by motorboat: $17
  • City tour on foot, by S-Bahn and tram: $24
  • Combo Tour in Guided City Tour & City Sightseeing: $21
  • Corpses, Leprosy, Lucifer 75-minute Tour at the Old Cemetery: $18
  • From Day Tour to the Green Belt: $631
  • From Markkleeberg: Full-Day Guided Cycling Tour by the Lakes: $48
  • Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Vienna 17
    Leipzig 26

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 comparing the travel costs between Vienna and Leipzig, we can see that Leipzig 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 Leipzig Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Vienna or Leipzig?

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

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 Leipzig in the Summer?

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

In July, Vienna is generally a little warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 23°C (73°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Leipzig this time of the year. In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during summer. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vienna usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Vienna 23°C (73°F) 
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Vienna or Leipzig in the Autumn?

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

Vienna is a little warmer than Leipzig in the autumn. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Leipzig fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Vienna often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 107 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Leipzig. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Vienna 12°C (54°F) 
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Vienna or Leipzig in the Winter?

Both Leipzig 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 Leipzig in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Leipzig can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Vienna. In the winter, Vienna is much warmer than Leipzig. Typically, the winter temperatures in Vienna in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Leipzig averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during winter. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vienna usually receives around the same amount of rain as Leipzig. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Vienna 2°C (36°F) 
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Vienna or Leipzig in the Spring?

Both Leipzig and Vienna during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vienna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Vienna is generally a little warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 13°C (55°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Vienna. In the spring, Vienna often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Leipzig. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Vienna 13°C (55°F) 
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Vienna

Vienna Leipzig
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)