A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Villach vs. Dusseldorf for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Villach or Dusseldorf?

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

Should I visit Villach or Dusseldorf? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Villach

Villach is a outdoorsy, historic, and nature-filled town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a historic, fun-filled, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Villach and Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Villach or Dusseldorf?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dusseldorf than Villach. Dusseldorf is bigger than Villach, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dusseldorf is better known for its food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Villach is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Villach is well known for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square. Dusseldorf is well known for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. Also, Dusseldorf is famous for Altstadt (the Old Town).

How is Villach different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Villach or Dusseldorf?

Villach
Dusseldorf

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Villach or Dusseldorf.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Villach. There are several historical buildings in town such as the Parish Church of St. Jakob, the Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of St. Martin. Also worth a visit is the Museum of the City of Villach.

Dusseldorf is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.


Is the Food Better in Villach or Dusseldorf? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Villach
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its restaurants.

Dining out in Dusseldorf is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Villach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find the standard options of pizza and burgers around town. While the food scene isn't particularly special, the quality is decent and reliable.

Is Villach or Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Villach
Dusseldorf

Evening events are notable in both Villach and Dusseldorf.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Villach. The weekends are when you'll find the best nightlife. There are some local bars and clubs that come to life and attract a young crowd on a weekend night.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dusseldorf. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Villach or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Villach
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is notable for its historic old town charm. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Villach is a good destination for visiting its old town. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.


Is Villach or Dusseldorf Better for Hiking?

Villach
Dusseldorf

Villach is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dusseldorf is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Villach. The surrounding countryside is filled with both short and long hikes. You can take a short stroll or spend hours (or days) exploring the alpine scenery. Breathtaking views and peaceful retreats make this a wonderful area for hiking.

Dusseldorf is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Villach or Dusseldorf?

Villach
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Villach is a mediocre town for shopping.

Many visitors go to Dusseldorf to go shopping. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Villach is a good destination for shopping. There are your standard shopping centers where you can pick up clothes or anything you may have forgotten for your trip.

Is Villach or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Villach
Dusseldorf

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Villach or Dusseldorf.

Villach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy. There's kid-friendly hiking, adventure parks, nature parks, and some swimming areas.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly destination. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.


Is Villach or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Villach
Dusseldorf

With fun activities for couples, both Villach and Dusseldorf make for a superb place to visit.

Villach is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful hikes, and stunning scenery will appreciate a visit to this area.

Dusseldorf makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Is Villach or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Villach
Dusseldorf

Villach is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Villach. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Villach or Dusseldorf Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Villach
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is terrific for its public transit. However, Villach is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Dusseldorf can take you anywhere. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

Public transit is mostly limited in Villach. There are buses and trains in the area, but to experience the nearby nature you'll want to have a car.


Is Villach or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Villach
Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its walkability.

Dusseldorf is a very walkable destination. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

Villach is generally not a very walkable town. Parts of the town are walkable but the surrounding natural areas are most easily accessed with a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Villach Worth Visiting? and Is Dusseldorf Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Villach?

How long in Villach or Dusseldorf?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Villach and Dusseldorf. In our opinion, Dusseldorf has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dusseldorf than Villach. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Villach, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dusseldorf.

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

Couples should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Villach. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dusseldorf that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Villach or Dusseldorf? Ideal Length of Stay
    Villach 1-3 
    Dusseldorf 2-3

One day in Villach or Dusseldorf?

With museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy town of Villach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Villach, one day is sufficent for most.

In Dusseldorf, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

A weekend in Villach or Dusseldorf?

With nightlife and museums around the destination of Villach, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Dusseldorf, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Dusseldorf has to offer.


Five days in Villach or Dusseldorf?

Villach, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dusseldorf is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Villach or Dusseldorf?

Villach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dusseldorf. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dusseldorf or Villach?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Villach is €116, while the average daily cost in Dusseldorf is €185. 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 Villach and Dusseldorf in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Villach 69
    Dusseldorf 95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Villach 138
    Dusseldorf 190
Compare Hotels in Villach and Dusseldorf

Looking for a hotel in Villach or Dusseldorf? 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 Villach


Hotels in Dusseldorf


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: Villach Hotel Prices and Dusseldorf Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Villach 18
    Dusseldorf 1.63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Villach or Dusseldorf?

Prices for flights to both Dusseldorf and Villach 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
    Villach 35
    Dusseldorf 76

Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dusseldorf.

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Villach 15
    Dusseldorf 25

Tours and Activities in Villach

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Villach are as follows:

  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Villach Private Walking Tour with Professional Guide: $250
  • Magic Christmas Tour: $769

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

Here are a few actual costs in Dusseldorf for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Night watchman tour: $22
  • Guided Walking Tour in Dusseldorf: $22
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Düsseldorf in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Dusseldorf Old Town and Altbier Tour: $25
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Villach 14
    Dusseldorf 23

Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Villach and Dusseldorf, we can see that Dusseldorf is more expensive. And not only is Villach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Villach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Villach 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 Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf than you might in Villach.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Villach Expensive? and Is Dusseldorf Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Villach or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Villach. When comparing the sizes of Villach and Dusseldorf, 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 Villach or Dusseldorf?

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 Villach or Dusseldorf in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Villach and Dusseldorf. Most visitors come to Villach for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Villach is a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Typically, the summer temperatures in Villach in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Villach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Villach usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during summer. Villach gets 288 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Villach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dusseldorf. Villach gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Villach 24°C (75°F) 
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Villach or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Villach as well as Dusseldorf. The autumn months attract visitors to Villach because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

In October, Villach is generally a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Villach average around 16°C (60°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Villach often gets more sunshine than Dusseldorf. Villach gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun.

Villach usually gets more rain in October than Dusseldorf. Villach gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Villach 16°C (60°F) 
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Villach or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

Both Dusseldorf and Villach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Villach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dusseldorf. Villach is much warmer than Dusseldorf in the winter. The daily temperature in Villach averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Villach usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during winter. Villach gets 96 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Villach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dusseldorf. Villach gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Villach 5°C (41°F) 
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Villach or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

Both Dusseldorf and Villach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Villach for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Villach is a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Typically, the spring temperatures in Villach in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Villach often gets more sunshine than Dusseldorf. Villach gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun.

Villach usually gets more rain in April than Dusseldorf. Villach gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Villach 13°C (56°F) 
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Villach

Villach Dusseldorf
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in) 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)