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

Should you visit Windsor or Salzburg?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Salzburg? 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a musical, cultural, and recognizable city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Windsor and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Windsor or Salzburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Salzburg. Although Windsor and Salzburg are both popular with visitors, Salzburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Salzburg is more popular for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Windsor is known for its small town charm. Salzburg is more touristy than Windsor and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also home to The Salzburg Old Town. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

The Salzburg Old Town
The Salzburg Old Town

How is Windsor different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Salzburg?

Windsor
Salzburg

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Windsor and Salzburg.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

Many visitors head to Salzburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Windsor or Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Salzburg

Salzburg is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Salzburg. 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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Salzburg

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Windsor and Salzburg.

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

If you're looking for night time activities Salzburg has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Windsor or Salzburg Better for Music?

Windsor
Salzburg

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Windsor is not a live music destination.

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

Windsor is not a live music destination.


Is Windsor or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Salzburg

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Salzburg is revered around the world. 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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Salzburg?

Windsor
Salzburg

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Salzburg make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Salzburg Better for Families?

Windsor
Salzburg

Salzburg is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Salzburg is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.


Is Windsor or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Windsor
Salzburg

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Salzburg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Windsor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Is Windsor or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Salzburg

Salzburg is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Salzburg is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Salzburg Better for Students?

Windsor
Salzburg

Salzburg is a world-class destination for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Salzburg. 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.


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

Windsor
Salzburg

Salzburg is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Salzburg can get you around easily. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Windsor
Salzburg

Windsor and Salzburg both are very good when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. 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 Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Salzburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Salzburg?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg than Windsor 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.


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

One day in Windsor or Salzburg?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Salzburg, 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.


A weekend in Windsor or Salzburg?

Windsor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Windsor, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Windsor or Salzburg?

Windsor is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Salzburg 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 Salzburg has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Salzburg?

Windsor is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Salzburg or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Salzburg is £132. 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 Windsor and Salzburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Salzburg £78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Salzburg £156
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Salzburg

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Salzburg? 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 Windsor


Hotels in Salzburg


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Salzburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Salzburg £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salzburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Salzburg:

  • Airport Transfer: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg by Luxury Car: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Business Car: $91
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Luxury Van: $93
  • Cesky Krumlov: Private One-Way Transfer to Salzburg: $629
  • Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Business Car: $91
  • Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Luxury Van: $93
  • From Salzburg to Munich Airport- Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $213
  • From Salzburg to Prague, Private Transfer with 2h of Sightseeing: $283
  • Kitzbuhel, Flachau, Transfer From Salzburg & Airport SZG: $288
  • Private Salzburg Airport luxury transfers to Salzburg city&Hotels: $65
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Salzburg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $278
  • Private Transfer From Salzburg To Innsbruck, English Speaking Driver : $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Salzburg?

Prices for flights to both Salzburg and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Salzburg £35
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Typical Food Prices in Salzburg

Some typical examples of dining costs in Salzburg are as follows:


  • Lunch Salad
    £7.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Salzburg

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

  • Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Class Including Lunch: $59
  • Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg: $60
  • Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner: $81
  • Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $83
  • Mozart Concert with Dinner: $83
  • Dinner Cooking Class and Music: $84
  • Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg: $85
  • Dinner Cooking Class - Prezels, Dumplings, Apple Strudel & Music: $86
  • Dinner and Classical Concert at Mirabell Palace: $94
  • Cruise, Dinner & Fortress Concert: $106
  • Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Salzburg with River Cruise: $111
  • Best of Mozart Concert and GOLDEN VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $133

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Salzburg £25

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

Tours and Activities in Salzburg

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Cathedral Entry Ticket with Audio Guide Option: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Salzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Sound of Music Sightseeing Walk with Audio Guide: $6.99
  • A taste of An audio tour through the birthplace of Mozart: $7.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $8.02
  • Mirabell Palace and Surroundings Audio Tour: $8.52
  • Salzburg Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Salzburg Cathedral: Guided Tour with Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Salzburg £22

Typical Alcohol Prices in Salzburg

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


  • Beer
    £3.17

Sample the Local Flavors in Salzburg

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

  • Stiegl Brewery Museum Entry Ticket & Beer Tasting: $16
  • Stiegl Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting: $24
  • Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar: $36
  • Private Austrian Wine Tasting with a Pro-Sommelière: $185


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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Salzburg?

Salzburg has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor or Salzburg?

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 Windsor or Salzburg in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Windsor is around the same temperature as Salzburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Salzburg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg this time of the year. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Salzburg during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Salzburg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Salzburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Salzburg. Many visitors come to Windsor in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Windsor is generally around the same temperature as Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Salzburg. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets more rain in October than Salzburg. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Salzburg 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Salzburg in the Winter?

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

The weather in Salzburg can be very cold. Windsor can be very cold during winter. Windsor is much warmer than Salzburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Salzburg -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Salzburg in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Windsor is cooler than Salzburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Windsor in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Salzburg. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Salzburg. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Salzburg 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Windsor

Windsor Salzburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) -0°C (31°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 93 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)