blueridge

We've been to both Salzburg and Budapest, and I agree with Lucy D that you'll need to choose based on your own preferences. Nonetheless, I'd recommend Budapest. And stay on Castle Hill if you can. The views over the Danube from Fisherman's Bastion, especially at sunset/evening are fairy tale beautiful - musicians play outside in the evenings. The National art museum on Castle Hill has excellent works by artists you've probably not been exposed to. There's a great zoo, and try to experience one of the many "baths". The Gellert baths were my "communist era" experience (curt prison guard-like women attendants), but greater for all that.
The subway system is the oldest in Europe and very ornate. We were there in September and the cottonwood fluff floating through City Park was like small snow drifts. We also visited Szentendre, a smaller town up the Danube and a nice day trip. Budapest may also be less expensive than Salzburg. And I enjoyed chicken paprikash prepared differently each of the 4 days there.

You'll have a great time in either city - Salzburg is more intimate and touring its looming castle gives a good idea of the feel of living in a fortified hill castle. Riverside walks here are cozier , and the salt mine tour someone mentioned is a great idea - try to get on an english version tour.

JN

I concur with those who have suggested that you not rely on votes to make your decision. Look up as much as you can about each city, decide the factors that are most important to you and select the city that guide books, fodorites and others suggest has the most of what you're looking for.

That being said, I'd vote for Salzburg :=)

margot55

I absolutely am NOT relying on the "votes" from this forum; rather, am trying to get a better feel of the diverse sentiments from people who have experienced either one or both of these places. Sorry if I gave the wrong impression about how I would make my decision - my reference to "collecting data" was tongue-in-cheek, nothing more. The truth remains that both cities equally appeal to me, but we will only have time for one on this trip.

BTilke

With 3-4 days in late September, I would suggest Krakow over Budapest or Salzburg.
But sticking to your two choices, it depends. Would you like to experience another city in a different country? Then Budapest is the better choice.
Would you like to get out into the country a bit, breathe some mountain air, maybe do a lake cruise or some hiking? Then Salzburg is the better choice.
I spent 5 days in Salzburg last May and even though the weather was most uncooperative (it rained for hours every day and on a couple of those days it absolutely came down in torrents), I still had a great time and could easily have spent more time in the city and the surrounding area.
If you opt for Salzburg, would it be possible for your flight home to leave from Munich instead of Vienna? Munich is closer to Salzburg than Vienna, the train ride is only about half as long.

margot55

Well, we have decided on Salzburg after a friend pointed out that we would be less likely to go there later if we didn't go this time in conjunction with Vienna, whereas we would be likely to combine Budapest with Prague at sometime in the future. I have tentatively booked us for 4 nights at the Hotel Bristol in Salzburg after reading and researching many favorable reviews. Many thanks for your feedback - I will ask more questions as we get closer to our trip.