Holiday in Austria: Cultural Vienna or Striking Salzburg?

Vienna and Salzburg – both these European destinations are worthy contenders if you’re looking for a perfect holiday in Austria for the memories and for some nice additions for your albums too. With their own fascinating historical marvels, distinct cultures, and social philosophies that are exciting to witness – Vienna and Salzburg are two cities in Austria that attract several visitors every year.

However, it’s a challenging task to choose between these two cities.  We bring stories, dining options,  and attractions from both cities to help you take a call.

                                   Things to do in Austria

Vienna 

Vienna is a perfect place to explore – the contrast of traditions and modernity. Being Austria’s capital city, Vienna is famous for its charming nature and rich culture. Vienna has a place for visitors who love culture, food, and vibrant nightlife. The city is made up of green spaces. City’s 280 imperial lush gardens and parks enrich the cityscape. The 19th district of Vienna is famous for rustic wine taverns.

Salzburg

We know that you’re thinking about Sound of Music Tour, the moment you remember Salzburg. Well, this isn’t the only attraction! The Salzburg city has so much to checkout from Mozart, salt mines, distant snow-topped mountains, Mirabell Palace & Gardens, beautiful landscapes to funicular cable car ride. Are you a music lover? Then you must not miss touring Mozart’s Residence.

Dining

Vienna

The culinary scene in Vienna is as rich as its cultural calendar. Its cuisine is a mix of influences from different countries such as Italy, Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, and the Balkans. The restaurants in the former imperial capital of Austria offer traditional, amazing food that ranges from the famous Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte to insider delicious treats, such as Frittatensuppe or Tafelspitz. Rejoice the gastronomic tour of Vienna over the concept of “pay as you wish” at Der Wiener Deewan.

Salzburg

Salzburg is plentifully dotted with pleasant eateries, serving good, solid Austrian food and newer-than-now nouvelle cuisine delights. There are plenty of dining options quintessentially Salzburgian where restaurants nestled on the town’s peak offering ‘food with view.’ Visit the market located near the Kollegienkirche is the best place for a quick lunch. During your trip to Salzburg, never miss dining at Ludwig – one trendy gourmet burger restaurant.

Hotel Accommodation in Austria

Vienna

You can see a surprising design-centric hotel scene in Vienna. Choose from a range of modern apartments, and luxury, budget, and mid-range hotels in Vienna that meets everyone’s accommodation needs.  Located next to the main train station, Motel One Wien Hauptbahnhof is one best hotel in Vienna to choose. However, each hotel in Vienna has its own charm to stay at reasonable prices.

Salzburg

Rest easy in Salzburg! The city offers a number of staying options suitable for your active holiday. Sprawled around the city, Salzburg has centrally located hotels, luxury, boutique and budget hotels. Close to all the city’s main attractions, Boutique Hotel Am Dom, the Goldener Hirsch, and Haus St Benedikt are the popular hotels located in the heart of the city.

Getting Around

Vienna

The Vienna Transport network is reliable, and it consists of U-Bahn (the bus and streetcars). You can see uniform fares for every form of transportation. Vienna’s transportation system is cheap, fast, frequent, efficient, and of course, it is clean and safe. And it is rarely overcrowded. Purchase a Vienna Card pass to enjoy additional benefits and discounts.  Vienna Pass with Travel is another convenient travel pass to explore the city. This also includes free entry to numerous attractions.

Salzburg

The public transportation of Salzburg consists of buses and trams. The city can be easily explored by bike or foot and is the best way to explore. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or regular commuter Salzburg’s public transport is the best option to get around the city. Purchasing a 24-Hour Ticket or a Week Pass is the best option to get around the city. Purchase a Salzburg Card which allows you to use public transport and free access for several tourist attractions.

The Verdict

Vienna

Museums and architecture are the star attractions in Vienna. Whether you’re a history buff or you’re planning for culture trip, Vienna satisfies you in either way. The modern and storied architecture style of the city brings special interest in you.

Salzburg

Salzburg comes out on top when you consider mountain scenery and outdoor adventures. Vienna boasts enormous and well-manicured green spaces located near Vienna Woods. You can take a leisure stroll in Vienna, but you can enjoy an adventurous hike in Salzburg.

However, if you’re looking for rich history, delectable dishes, and constant access to musical concerts you’ll win either way. While Vienna is more centralized and public systems are slightly more accessible, Salzburg holds its own as a smaller, quieter getaway. If you are in search for rich history, culture, authentic gastronomy, or constant access to musical concerts, both cities will win either way.