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

Should you visit Vienna or Pamplona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Pamplona, 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Vienna and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Pamplona?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Pamplona than Vienna. While Vienna is larger than Pamplona, Pamplona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pamplona is better known for its nightlife, hiking, and big city activities, while Vienna is more popular for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Vienna is more touristy than Pamplona and is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Pamplona is well known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Also, Pamplona is famous for The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Vienna different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vienna is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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 Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Vienna and Pamplona 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 Pamplona is an experience not to be missed. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Vienna or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Pamplona 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.

Pamplona has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

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 Pamplona Better for Music?

Vienna is terrific for its live music scene. However, Pamplona is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone 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.

Pamplona is not a live music destination.

Is Vienna or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Vienna is terrific for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Vienna or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Pamplona?

Vienna is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Vienna make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Vienna or Pamplona Better for Families?

Vienna and Pamplona 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 Pamplona. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Vienna or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Vienna is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Vienna or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

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 Pamplona Better for Students?

Vienna is terrific for students. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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

Plenty of students visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

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

Vienna is terrific for its public transit. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Pamplona has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Vienna or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Vienna is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Vienna or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Vienna than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

Families should spend more time in Vienna than Pamplona. 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 Pamplona. 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 Pamplona 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.

One day in Vienna or Pamplona?

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 Pamplona. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Vienna or Pamplona?

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.

Pamplona 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 Pamplona?

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 Pamplona. 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 Pamplona?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Pamplona. This city 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Vienna or Pamplona?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Pamplona. When comparing the sizes of Vienna and Pamplona, 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 Pamplona?

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vienna as well as Pamplona. Many visitors come to Vienna in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Vienna is a little warmer than Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vienna this time of the year. In the summer, Vienna often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in July than Pamplona. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Pamplona in the Autumn?

Both Pamplona and Vienna are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Vienna for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Vienna is cooler than Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vienna in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Vienna usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona during autumn. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In October, Vienna usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vienna or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Vienna during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Vienna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

The weather in Vienna can be very cold. In January, Vienna is generally much colder than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 2°C (36°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Vienna often gets less sunshine than Pamplona. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vienna usually gets less rain in January than Pamplona. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Pamplona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vienna and Pamplona. The natural beauty are the main draw to Vienna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the activities around the city.

Vienna is around the same temperature as Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during spring. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Vienna usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Vienna