When choosing between Edinburgh and Salzburg, backpackers weigh history, culture, and budget. Both offer unique experiences, but differ in cost and atmosphere.

Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?

Salzburg generally offers a slightly lower daily budget than Edinburgh, though both are popular European destinations. Backpackers typically spend €35-55 per day in European cities.

• Edinburgh: Estimated daily spend can range from €40-65.
  • Accommodation (hostel): €20-35 per night (often paid in GBP, converted for comparison).
  • Food: €12-22 per day (meals at local eateries or groceries).
  • Local Transport: €5-10 per day.
• Salzburg: Estimated daily spend can range from €35-60.
  • Accommodation (hostel): €18-30 per night.
  • Food: €10-20 per day (meals at local eateries or groceries).
  • Local Transport: €5-10 per day. Seasonal variations impact prices; spring and fall often offer lower rates than peak summer.

What’s the Vibe Like for Backpackers?

Edinburgh offers a dramatic, historic, and vibrant atmosphere. Its medieval Old Town, winding closes, and towering castle create a unique backdrop. It’s a student city with a lively pub culture, rich literary history, and frequent festivals. Salzburg exudes classical charm and elegance. Known for Mozart and “The Sound of Music,” it features baroque architecture, picturesque squares, and stunning alpine scenery. It tends to have a more relaxed, refined pace.

Which City Offers More Free or Low-Cost Activities?

Both cities provide ample free and low-cost activities crucial for backpackers.

• Edinburgh: Explore the Royal Mile, hike Arthur’s Seat for panoramic city views (free), visit the National Museum of Scotland (free entry), wander through Princes Street Gardens, or join a free walking tour.
• Salzburg: Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visit Mirabell Gardens (free), climb Kapuzinerberg or Mönchsberg mountains for city views (free), or explore “Sound of Music” filming locations from the outside.

How Easy Is Getting Around and Beyond?

Both cities are highly walkable in their central areas and possess efficient public transport systems.

• Edinburgh: The city center is compact and easily navigated on foot. An extensive bus network covers wider areas. It’s well-connected by train and bus to other Scottish cities and destinations in England. Edinburgh Airport offers numerous international flights.
• Salzburg: The Old Town is largely pedestrian-friendly. Buses and trolleybuses provide good coverage. Salzburg is a key rail hub, offering excellent train connections across Austria and to neighboring countries like Germany. Salzburg Airport is smaller but well-connected.

For finding free amenities like public restrooms, Wi-Fi hotspots, or drinking fountains in either city, resources like AllInMap can be helpful.