A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Salzburg for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Beijing or Salzburg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Salzburg can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Beijing offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Beijing travel costs.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a historic, beautiful, and musical city. The famous beauty of Salzburg is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food. See Salzburg travel costs.

Beijing and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Salzburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing than Salzburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Beijing is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Salzburg attracts visitors for its music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Beijing is famous for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also well known for The Forbidden City. Salzburg is famous for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music.

How is Beijing different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beijing is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Beijing on the map. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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 Beijing or Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Beijing is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Is Beijing or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Beijing offers plenty to do in the evening. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Beijing or Salzburg Better for Music?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Beijing is not a live music destination.

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.

Beijing is not a live music destination.

Is Beijing or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Salzburg offers plenty to see. 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.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Salzburg?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Beijing or Salzburg More Beautiful?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Salzburg is one of the main draws. This stunning city is known for its beautiful churches and hillside views.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Beijing or Salzburg Better for Families?

Salzburg is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing and Salzburg are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Salzburg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Is Beijing or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Many students visit Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Beijing and Salzburg.

Beijing offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Salzburg. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Beijing or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Salzburg is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Salzburg?

In either Beijing or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Salzburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

Families should spend more time in Salzburg than Beijing. 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 Beijing. 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 Beijing 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 Beijing or Salzburg?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

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 Beijing or Salzburg?

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. 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 Beijing or Salzburg?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Beijing or Salzburg?

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer. This city 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 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Salzburg, we can see that Salzburg is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Salzburg is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Salzburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Salzburg than you might in Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Salzburg?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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 Beijing 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 Beijing or Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Salzburg. Most visitors come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Beijing is a little warmer than Salzburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Salzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg this time of the year. In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Salzburg during summer. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beijing gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Beijing usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beijing or Salzburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Salzburg. The autumn months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

In the autumn, Beijing is a little warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beijing in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the autumn, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Salzburg. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Beijing 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 Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Salzburg. It's quite cold in Beijing in the winter. In January, Beijing is generally much colder than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around -4°C (26°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during winter. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beijing or Salzburg in the Spring?

Both Salzburg and Beijing during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty.

Beijing is a little warmer than Salzburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the spring, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Salzburg. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Beijing