A Travel Price Comparison for Austria Vienna vs. Salzburg for Music, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Vienna or Salzburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Salzburg, 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a recognizable, historic, and beautiful city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Vienna and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Salzburg?

Both Salzburg and Vienna have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Vienna is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Salzburg is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music.

How is Vienna different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Salzburg. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Vienna and Salzburg 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 Salzburg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Vienna or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Vienna and Salzburg.

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.

Salzburg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Vienna or Salzburg Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Vienna and Salzburg.

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.

In Salzburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Is Vienna or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Vienna and Salzburg both have amazing 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 Salzburg can be explored in its historical center. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Salzburg?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Vienna and Salzburg.

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.

Salzburg is a world class destination for shoppers. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Is Vienna or Salzburg Better for Families?

Salzburg 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, Salzburg is very family-friendly. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg Better for Couples?

Vienna and Salzburg are both amazing to visit as a couple.

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.

Salzburg is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Is Vienna or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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 Salzburg Better for Students?

Both Vienna and Salzburg are amazing destinations for 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.

Salzburg is a very popular city for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

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

Vienna is terrific for its public transit. Also, Salzburg 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.

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Vienna or Salzburg a more walkable city?

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

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

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Salzburg?

In either Vienna or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

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

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

One day in Vienna or Salzburg?

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 food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Salzburg. 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.

A weekend in Vienna or Salzburg?

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.

Salzburg 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 Salzburg?

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 Salzburg. 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.

A week in Vienna or Salzburg?

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 nightlife and live music when visiting the musical destination of Salzburg. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Austria, The Best Adventure Tours to Austria, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Austria, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Vienna or Salzburg?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Vienna and Salzburg, 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 Salzburg?

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 Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Vienna as well as Salzburg. The summer months attract visitors to Vienna because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

In the summer, Vienna is a little warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vienna in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Salzburg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vienna this time of the year. In the summer, Vienna often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in July than Salzburg. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Salzburg in the Autumn?

Both Salzburg and Vienna are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Vienna is generally a little warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 12°C (54°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during autumn. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Vienna usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Vienna or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Vienna during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Salzburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Salzburg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Vienna. Vienna is much warmer than Salzburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Vienna often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in January than Salzburg. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Salzburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Vienna and Salzburg. Many visitors come to Vienna in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Salzburg for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Vienna is a little warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vienna in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during spring. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Vienna usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Vienna