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

Should you visit Osaka or Salzburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Salzburg, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Osaka

Osaka is a high energy, colorful, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Osaka travel costs.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a recognizable, historic, and beautiful city. Salzburg is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Salzburg travel costs.

Osaka and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Salzburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka than Salzburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Osaka is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Salzburg attracts visitors for its music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Osaka and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle.

How is Osaka different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Osaka 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 Osaka on the map. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

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 Osaka or Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Osaka 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, Osaka is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

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 Osaka or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Osaka is a must-see party destination. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

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 Osaka or Salzburg Better for Music?

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

Salzburg has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

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

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.

Osaka is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Salzburg?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Osaka and Salzburg.

Many people travel to Osaka specifically to go shopping. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Osaka or Salzburg More Beautiful?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Salzburg is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This stunning city is known for its beautiful churches and hillside views.

Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Osaka or Salzburg Better for Families?

Osaka and Salzburg are both superb destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Osaka. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

Salzburg is 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.

Is Osaka or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Salzburg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Osaka frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

Is Osaka or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka and Salzburg are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Osaka. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Salzburg. 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 Osaka or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Salzburg is a great destination 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Osaka. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

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

Osaka is terrific for its public transit. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Osaka can take you anywhere. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Osaka or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Salzburg is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Osaka is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Salzburg?

In either Osaka or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than Osaka because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

Couples should spend more time in Salzburg than Osaka. 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.

One day in Osaka or Salzburg?

Osaka is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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, many people enjoy the live music and food that this recognizable destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Osaka or Salzburg?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Osaka or Salzburg?

Osaka 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 fun place to experience. In Salzburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Osaka or Salzburg?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, 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 Osaka and Salzburg, we can see that Salzburg is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Osaka 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 Osaka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Osaka 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 Osaka.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Salzburg?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Osaka 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 Osaka or Salzburg?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Osaka or Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Salzburg. The summer months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

Osaka is a little warmer than Salzburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Salzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Salzburg. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the summer. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Salzburg. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Salzburg in the Autumn?

Both Salzburg and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Osaka is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Osaka during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Salzburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Salzburg can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Osaka is generally much warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Salzburg. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Salzburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Salzburg. Many visitors come to Osaka in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Salzburg for the natural beauty during these months.

Osaka is a little warmer than Salzburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Osaka