A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Villach vs. Munich for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Villach or Munich?

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

Should I visit Villach or Munich? 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 nature-filled, outdoorsy, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Munich

Munich is a multicultural, economically thriving, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Villach and Munich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • 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
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Villach or Munich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich than Villach. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Munich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Villach attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Munich is more touristy than Villach and is known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also well known for The Nymphenburg Palace. Villach is famous for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square.

How is Villach different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Villach
Munich

Munich is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Munich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

Villach is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.


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

Villach
Munich

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

Dining out in Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich Better for Nightlife?

Villach
Munich

Munich is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Munich is a must-see party destination. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Is Villach or Munich Better for Music?

Villach
Munich

Munich is terrific for its music scene. However, Villach is not a live music destination.

In Munich you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Villach is not a live music destination.


Is Villach or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Villach
Munich

Villach is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

Villach offers a nice historic old town area. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is Villach or Munich Better for Hiking?

Villach
Munich

Villach is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Munich 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.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Villach or Munich?

Villach
Munich

Munich is terrific for its shopping areas. However, Villach is a mediocre town for shopping.

Munich is a world class destination for shoppers. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich Better for Families?

Villach
Munich

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Villach or Munich.

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.

Munich is a very family-friendly destination. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Villach or Munich Better for Couples?

Villach
Munich

With fun activities for couples, both Villach and Munich make for a very good 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.

Munich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Villach or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Villach
Munich

Munich is terrific for backpackers. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Munich is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Villach is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.


Is Villach or Munich Better for Students?

Villach
Munich

Munich is terrific for students. However, Villach is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Villach is not popular with students.

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

Villach
Munich

Munich 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 Munich can take you anywhere. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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 Munich a more walkable city?

Villach
Munich

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

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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 Munich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Munich or Villach?

How long in Villach or Munich?

In either Villach or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than Villach because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Villach, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich than Villach 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 Munich.


  • How many days in Villach or Munich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Villach 1-3 
    Munich 2-5

One day in Villach or Munich?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Villach. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Munich is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Munich?

Villach 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.

Because Munich is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer.

Five days in Villach or Munich?

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

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Villach or Munich?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Villach. This town 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Munich. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Munich 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 Munich is €148. 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 Munich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Villach 69
    Munich 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Villach 138
    Munich 178
Compare Hotels in Villach and Munich

Looking for a hotel in Villach or Munich? 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 Munich


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 Munich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Villach 18
    Munich 19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Munich

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • Airport Transfer by Bus: $12
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Munich Airport to Munich Central Station: $14
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Munich - Arrival Private Transfer: $32
  • Arrival Transfer from Munich Train Station to Munich by Sedan: $60
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Munich - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Van: $65
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Arrival Transfer: $71
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Munich City - Munich Airport (MUC): $74
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Munich Airport (MUC)- Munich City: $74
  • Arrival Transfer Munich Train Station to Munich by Luxury Car: $74
  • Munich Airport (MUC) to Arber Resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Private Departure Transfer from Munich to Munich Airport by Sedan: $91

Is it cheaper to fly into Villach or Munich?

Prices for flights to both Munich 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
    Munich 27

Typical Food Prices in Munich

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


  • Bratwurst
    5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour: $46
  • Private Salzburg History & Food Tour with Munich train add-on: $55
  • Food Tour Beer- 3 small beers & "Brotzeit" in GERMAN: $79
  • 6 gears dinner show menu: $99
  • Original Munich Christmas Market Food Tour - all tastings included: $136
  • Lunch Like a Local: Munich's ORIGINAL Viktualienmarkt Food Tour: $141
  • Private Full Day Bavarian Beer and Food Tour in Munich: $209
  • Private - Viktualienmarkt Food Tour and Beyond - best Munich tastings: $229
  • Munich Food Tour & Food Market with German Delicacies: $265
  • Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner : $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Villach 15
    Munich 29

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Munich

Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    24

Tours and Activities in Munich

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

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Munich Old Town": $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Victuals Market Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.74
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.28
  • Guided tour through the Sudeten German Museum: $5.35
  • Escape Game and Tour: $5.35
  • From Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $5.35
  • Munich through the Centuries: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-guided Walking Tour to River Isar Landmarks: $6.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Interactive City Tour on Your Smartphone: $7.48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Villach 14
    Munich 37

Typical Alcohol Prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Munich:

  • Exclusive Brewery Tour & Tasting of 4 Organic Beers: $28
  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $31
  • English Guided Brewery Tour in Munich beertasting 4 beers: $37
  • Max & Moritz: Interactive Wine Tasting Experience: $37
  • Cheese & Wine tasting: $95
  • The ORIGINAL Munich Christmas Market Festive Wine Tour -with food: $141
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $288
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Munich with a Wine Expert: $294
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Villach and Munich, we can see that Munich 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 Munich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Munich 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 Munich Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Villach or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Villach. When comparing the sizes of Villach and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Villach and Munich. Many travelers come to Villach for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Munich in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Villach is a little warmer than Munich in the summer. The daily temperature in Villach averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Munich this time of the year. In Villach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Villach usually receives more sunshine than Munich during summer. Villach gets 288 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Villach usually receives less rain than Munich. Villach gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Villach 24°C (75°F) 
    Munich 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Villach or Munich in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Villach as well as Munich. Many visitors come to Villach in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Villach is a little warmer than Munich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Villach in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Villach often gets more sunshine than Munich. Villach gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

Villach usually gets more rain in October than Munich. Villach gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Villach 16°C (60°F) 
    Munich 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Villach or Munich in the Winter?

Both Munich and Villach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Villach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Munich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Munich can be very cold. In January, Villach is generally much warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Villach average around 5°C (41°F), and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Villach usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Villach gets 96 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Villach usually receives more rain than Munich. Villach gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Villach 5°C (41°F) 
    Munich -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Villach or Munich in the Spring?

Both Munich and Villach during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Villach because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

Villach is a little warmer than Munich in the spring. The daily temperature in Villach averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Villach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Munich. Villach gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

Villach usually gets more rain in April than Munich. Villach gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Villach 13°C (56°F) 
    Munich 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Munich and Villach

Villach Munich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 11°C (53°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in) 19°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in) 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in) 17°C (62°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 1°C (33°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)