A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vienna vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Vienna or Pompeii?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Pompeii, 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 artistic, musical, and ritzy city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a famous, iconic, and one-of-a-kind archeological site. Visitors also love the museums.

Vienna and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vienna. Although Vienna and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Vienna has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vienna is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is known for its museums. Vienna is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. It is also home to The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Pompeii is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Vienna different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii 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 Pompeii are world-renowned. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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 Pompeii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vienna is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Vienna has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Vienna or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Vienna is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Vienna or Pompeii Better for Music?

Vienna is renowned for its music scene. However, Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Vienna has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Is Vienna or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Vienna is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Vienna is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Pompeii?

Vienna is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Many people travel to Vienna specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Vienna or Pompeii Better for Families?

Pompeii 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, Pompeii is very family-friendly. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

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 Pompeii Better for Couples?

Vienna is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Vienna has plenty to offer. 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Vienna or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vienna and Pompeii are both good 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.

Pompeii is a good city to visit for backpackers. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Vienna or Pompeii Better for Students?

Vienna is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Vienna. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

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

Vienna is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Vienna has a great public transit system. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

You'll find some public transit in Pompeii, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Vienna or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Vienna and Pompeii are terrific 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 Pompeii on foot is easy. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Vienna or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Vienna than Pompeii 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 Pompeii.

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

Couples should spend more time in Vienna than Pompeii. 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 Pompeii 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 Pompeii?

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 when visiting the destination of Pompeii. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Vienna or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Pompeii?

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 museums when visiting the famous destination of Pompeii. This archeological site 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 Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Vienna and Pompeii, 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 Pompeii Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Vienna or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii and Vienna are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Vienna for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Vienna is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vienna in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Pompeii averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Pompeii. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vienna. Vienna usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during summer. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vienna usually receives more rain than Pompeii. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vienna or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Vienna during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Vienna because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Vienna is generally cooler than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 12°C (54°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Vienna often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vienna usually gets less rain in October than Pompeii. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vienna and Pompeii. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vienna this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pompeii for the museums.

It's quite cold in Vienna in the winter. Vienna is much colder than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Vienna usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during winter. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Vienna usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vienna or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vienna as well as Pompeii. Many travelers come to Vienna for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Vienna is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vienna in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Pompeii averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vienna this time of the year. In the spring, Vienna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in April than Pompeii. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Vienna