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

Should you visit Aalborg or Lucerne?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Aalborg and Lucerne. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a local, historic, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a vibrant, scenic, and active city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aalborg and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Aalborg or Lucerne?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Aalborg. While Aalborg is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Aalborg is more popular for its food and small town charm. Lucerne is more touristy than Aalborg and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Also, Lucerne is famous for The Chapel Bridge. Aalborg is well known for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Aalborg different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aalborg or Lucerne?

Aalborg
Lucerne

Lucerne is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Aalborg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.


Is the Food Better in Aalborg or Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aalborg
Lucerne

Aalborg is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Aalborg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Aalborg or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Aalborg
Lucerne

It's hard to distinguish whether Aalborg or Lucerne has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Aalborg know how to have a good time. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

The nightlife in Lucerne has something for everybody. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Aalborg or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Aalborg
Lucerne

Lucerne is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Aalborg. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.


Is the Shopping Better in Aalborg or Lucerne?

Aalborg
Lucerne

Lucerne is a great destination for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Is Aalborg or Lucerne Better for Families?

Aalborg
Lucerne

Both Aalborg and Lucerne are notable family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aalborg. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Aalborg or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Aalborg
Lucerne

Lucerne is a great destination for romance. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Lucerne frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Aalborg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.


Is Aalborg or Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aalborg
Lucerne

Aalborg is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Aalborg or Lucerne Better for Students?

Aalborg
Lucerne

Aalborg is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

It's common for students to visit Aalborg. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

Is Aalborg or Lucerne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aalborg
Lucerne

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aalborg and Lucerne.

You'll find some public transit in Aalborg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system around town.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.


Is Aalborg or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Aalborg
Lucerne

Aalborg and Lucerne both are notable when exploring on foot.

Aalborg is somewhat walkable. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable place. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

For even more information, also check out Is Aalborg Worth Visiting? and Is Lucerne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Aalborg?

How long in Aalborg or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aalborg and Lucerne. In our opinion, Lucerne has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lucerne than Aalborg. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aalborg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lucerne.

Families should spend more time in Lucerne than Aalborg. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lucerne, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lucerne than Aalborg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lucerne that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aalborg than Lucerne 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 Aalborg.


  • How many days in Aalborg or Lucerne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aalborg 2-3 
    Lucerne 1-3

One day in Aalborg or Lucerne?

In Aalborg, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Lucerne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Aalborg or Lucerne?

In Aalborg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aalborg has to offer.

In Lucerne, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne has to offer.


Five days in Aalborg or Lucerne?

Aalborg is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Lucerne is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Aalborg or Lucerne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aalborg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aalborg. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lucerne or Aalborg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aalborg is $156, while the average daily cost in Lucerne is $214. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aalborg and Lucerne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aalborg $87
    Lucerne $137
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aalborg $174
    Lucerne $274
Compare Hotels in Aalborg and Lucerne

Looking for a hotel in Aalborg or Lucerne? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aalborg


Hotels in Lucerne


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aalborg Hotel Prices and Lucerne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aalborg $32
    Lucerne $13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aalborg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aalborg:

  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg (AAL) Airport to City centre: $131
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg city centre to Aalborg airport: $131
  • Private Airport and City Transfers in Aalborg: $87
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg Airport (AAL) to Skagen Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg City Hotels to Skagen Cruise Port: $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

Also for Lucerne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251

Is it cheaper to fly into Aalborg or Lucerne?

Prices for flights to both Lucerne and Aalborg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aalborg $47
    Lucerne $62

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aalborg $24
    Lucerne $34

Tours and Activities in Aalborg

Here are a few actual costs in Aalborg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3-Hours Street Art Tour in Aalborg: $44
  • Aalborg during WW2: Self-guided Audio Tour with StoryHunt: $14
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $246
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $480
  • The best of Aalborg walking tour: $219

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    $34
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    $35

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lucerne.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Revealing Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Smartphone walking tour - cool Lucerne old town: $5.47
  • Walking Tour - Around the Old Town Lucerne: $5.60
  • The Lives and Legends of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Lucerne Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Revealing Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Porrentruy Secret Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience: $20
  • Guided Walking Tour with an Official Guide: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aalborg $19
    Lucerne $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lucerne:

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aalborg and Lucerne, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Aalborg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Aalborg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aalborg 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne than you might in Aalborg.

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


Which is Bigger, Aalborg or Lucerne?

Aalborg has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Aalborg and Lucerne, 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 Aalborg or Lucerne?

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 Aalborg or Lucerne in the Summer?

Both Lucerne and Aalborg during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.

In July, Aalborg is generally cooler than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around 16°C (61°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Aalborg usually gets less rain in July than Lucerne. Aalborg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aalborg 16°C (61°F) 
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Lucerne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Aalborg and Lucerne. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Aalborg is cooler than Lucerne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aalborg averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In October, Aalborg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lucerne. Aalborg gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aalborg 9°C (48°F) 
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Lucerne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Aalborg as well as Lucerne. Many travelers come to Aalborg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Lucerne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lucerne can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Aalborg. In the winter, Aalborg is much colder than Lucerne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aalborg in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Lucerne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Aalborg usually gets less rain in January than Lucerne. Aalborg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aalborg -1°C (31°F) 
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Lucerne in the Spring?

Both Lucerne and Aalborg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Aalborg in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Lucerne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Aalborg is generally much colder than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around 6°C (43°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Aalborg gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aalborg 6°C (43°F) 
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Aalborg

Aalborg Lucerne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb -0°C (31°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 2°C (36°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 3°C (38°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)