Austria Vs. Hungary

If there ever was a time to say ‘brothers from the same mother’, this would be it.

Most of you would know that once upon a time, Austria and Hungary were part of the same empire. That is, until World War I came knocking, and engineered a divorce. Neighbouring nations now, Austria and Hungary share a number of features, among them – rivalry.

There’s really not much by way of comparison between the sophistication of Vienna and the cultural munificence of Budapest. Both the cities and their respective countries are worthy contenders for the crown when it comes to travel.

So let’s get down to the specifics, shall we?

Austria

Vienna

Ah, what could be said of Vienna that hasn’t been said before? The capital of Austria and the sentinel of civility itself, Vienna is still reputed to hold over 200 elegant balls every year. Vienna’s reputation as a musical entrepot is well-deserved – with composers such as Mozart, Strauss, Schubert, Beethoven, and Brahms being among its arsenal. The royal palace of Hofburg was once the seat of Austrian and – to a large extent – European power and influence, so make sure you do give it a visit. Art enthusiasts can find their feet to the Kunsthistorisches – housing an enviable collection of the finest arts by the old masters. There’s far too much cultural jewels such as those mentioned here to pack into one trip, so don’t make a heavy schedule. Make sure you give yourself plenty of breaks lounging at one of the many cafes that Vienna is famous for. 

Salzburg

It is said that some of Mozart’s best music was inspired by the views of Salzburg. The birthplace of Mozart, who remains arguably the world’s most famous musical composer, Salzburg is a picturesque mountainous city and the fourth-largest in Austria. Visitors here are spell-bound by the magnificent vistas of medieval fortressed perched atop Alpine scenery, Old Towns such as Altstadt and historical masterpieces such as the 17^th century Baroque Mirabell Palace. Often called the place that inspired the ‘beginning of music’, Salzburg also happens to be the setting for the renowned Von Trapp family, the inspiration behind the popular musical The Sound of Music. Whether you have an ear for music or not, do make sure you visit Mozart’s birthplace and remodelled home.

How to Get There

Vienna and Salzburg are very popular destinations – as is Austria as a whole. So it behoves a traveller to book tickets well in advance because the later one books, the costlier the tickets get. Aeroflot, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Swiss Airlines and good ole’ Air India fly there. If you wish to book your ticket, please search here.

 

Hungary

Budapest

Fast becoming one of Europe’s go-to spots for a holiday, Budapest combines cheap travel costs with the best of what Europe has to offer. From Art Noveau architecture, to an abundance of hot springs and bathhouses that would give Istanbul a run for its money, to a dining culture par excellence and historical landmarks such as the Danube Memorial and the ignoble Terror House – Budapest is awash with tourist fancies. Get a gander of the remarkable cityscape from one of its innumerable bridges, or visit some of the attractions that harken to Hungary’s Golden Age. Budapest is sure to delight you while remaining easy on the pockets (relatively speaking!).

Esztergom

In contrast to the cities mentioned here, Esztergom can only be called a town. But its claims to fame are several – and it offers a much-needed respite from the city scrambles to picturesque town side wanderings along the banks of the Danube River. The cultural and religious seat of influence for the Roman Catholic faith for over a thousand years, Esztergom has a number of historical landmarks up for visit. Unique amongst them is the domed Basilica, mounted atop a hilltop on the Danube. The reflections of the Basilica on the river are sights to die for, by day and by the night. 

How to Get There

Budapest is a very popular destination with Indians so do book in advance. If you have a travel portal account, best use it to avail air miles and discounts on travel because these tickets do not come cheap. Aeroflot, Lufthansa, Air France, Emirates and Etihad Airways are popular carriers operating between India and Hungary. If you wish to book your ticket, please search here.

                                                                                                                               

 

Destination	Vienna, Austria	Budapest, Hungary
Hotels (centrally located)	Rs. 5363 (per night at Hotel Prinz Eugen) Rs. 11,452 (per night at NH Wien Hotel) Rs. 25,024 (per night at Enziana Hotel Vienna)	Rs. 3687 (per night at Hotel Charles Budapest) Rs. 4802 (per night at Carlton Hotel Budapest) Rs. 8524 (per night at St. George Residence All Suite Hotel de Luxe)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 2500 per day	Rs. 1200 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 160 per ticket	Rs. 80 per ticket
Miscellaneous	Rs. 3000 per day	Rs. 1600 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

While Hungary is definitely a cheaper bet than Austria, there is something about the symphony of Salzburg, and the cultural extravaganza of Vienna that draws tourists here. If you are looking to save up on the cash, we’d suggest Hungary. But if you’re a lover of art, architecture, history and music – and have the cash to foot the bills – Austria will reward you and how.