A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aalborg vs. Tromso for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Aalborg or Tromso?

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 Tromso. 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.

Tromso

Tromso is a spectacular, remote, and one-of-a-kind town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Aalborg and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights


Is there more to do in Aalborg or Tromso?

You'll generally find more things to do in Aalborg than Tromso. Aalborg is bigger than Tromso, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Aalborg is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Tromso is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tromso is more touristy than Aalborg and is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords. Aalborg is well known for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting. Also, Aalborg is famous for the Utzon Center.

How is Aalborg different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tromso 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 Tromso?

Aalborg
Tromso

Aalborg is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Aalborg. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.


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

Aalborg
Tromso

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Aalborg and Tromso.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Aalborg makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Tromso has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

Is Aalborg or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Aalborg
Tromso

Aalborg is a great town for its evening party scene. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Aalborg has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Aalborg or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Aalborg
Tromso

Aalborg is a town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Aalborg has an old town worth visiting. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.


Is Aalborg or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Aalborg
Tromso

Tromso is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Tromso. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aalborg or Tromso?

Aalborg
Tromso

Aalborg is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

Aalborg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Aalborg or Tromso Better for Families?

Aalborg
Tromso

Tromso is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Tromso is a very family-friendly place to visit. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

Aalborg offers lots of family activities. 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.


Is Aalborg or Tromso Better for Couples?

Aalborg
Tromso

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

Couples visit Tromso frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

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 Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aalborg
Tromso

Aalborg and Tromso are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Aalborg or Tromso Better for Students?

Aalborg
Tromso

Aalborg and Tromso are notable places to visit for students.

Aalborg is popular with students. 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.

It's common for students to visit Tromso. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.


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

Aalborg
Tromso

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

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 Tromso offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Aalborg or Tromso a more walkable city?

Aalborg
Tromso

Tromso is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Tromso is very walkable. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Aalborg?

How long in Aalborg or Tromso?

Both Aalborg and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Aalborg. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aalborg, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aalborg than Tromso 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 Tromso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aalborg 2-3 
    Tromso 4-7

One day in Aalborg or Tromso?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Aalborg. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Aalborg or Tromso?

Aalborg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Aalborg or Tromso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aalborg. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Tromso is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tromso has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Aalborg or Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Aalborg. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tromso. Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Tromso or Aalborg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Aalborg is $158, while the average daily cost in Tromso is $115. 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 Tromso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aalborg $88
    Tromso $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aalborg $176
    Tromso $112
Compare Hotels in Aalborg and Tromso

Looking for a hotel in Aalborg or Tromso? 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 Tromso


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 Tromso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aalborg $32
    Tromso $29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aalborg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aalborg:

  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg (AAL) Airport to City centre: $133
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg city centre to Aalborg airport: $133
  • Private Airport and City Transfers in Aalborg: $88
  • 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 Tromso

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

  • Highway to Heaven - Aurora Cable Car Transfer in Tromsø: $96
  • Private Airport and City Transfer in Tromso: $83
  • Tromso Private Transfer from Tromso city centre to Tromso airport: $118

Is it cheaper to fly into Aalborg or Tromso?

Prices for flights to both Tromso 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 $48
    Tromso $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

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

  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $164
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $183
  • Fjord Cruise Expedition with Dinner,Tromso: $213
  • Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner: $242

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aalborg $24
    Tromso $17

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: $45
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $249
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $488
  • The best of Aalborg walking tour: $221

Tours and Activities in Tromso

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

  • The Paris of the North: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Tromsø: $6.99
  • Touring-Trekking Bicycle Rental in Tromso - 1 to 2 Days: $47
  • Tromso Embrace the Spirits of the North Tasting Experience: $65
  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $76
  • Northern Light 4 hours cruise with MS Strønstad : $96
  • Electric Northern Lights Cruise: $105
  • Northern Lights Walking Tour: $115
  • Tromsø Ice Domes Guided Tour and Reindeer Visit: $120
  • Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso: $121
  • Tromsø, Northern Lights and Wilderness Evening Catamaran Cruise: $123
  • Arctic fjord and Landscape Tour: $125
  • Exclusive Reindeers Experience in small groups, Tromso: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aalborg $19
    Tromso $8.50


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

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


Which is Bigger, Aalborg or Tromso?

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

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 Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Aalborg during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Aalborg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tromso because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Aalborg is generally a little warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around 16°C (61°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Aalborg usually gets less rain in July than Tromso. Aalborg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aalborg 16°C (61°F) 
    Tromso 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Tromso in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Aalborg and Tromso. The autumn months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the autumn. Aalborg is much warmer than Tromso in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aalborg averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Tromso receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Tromso. Aalborg gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aalborg 9°C (48°F) 
    Tromso 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Aalborg as well as Tromso. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tromso for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. It's quite cold in Aalborg in the winter. In the winter, Aalborg is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aalborg in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Tromso averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Aalborg usually gets less rain in January than Tromso. Aalborg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aalborg -1°C (31°F) 
    Tromso -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Tromso in the Spring?

Both Tromso and Aalborg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Aalborg for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Tromso in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Tromso can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Aalborg is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around 6°C (43°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In April, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Tromso. Aalborg gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aalborg 6°C (43°F) 
    Tromso 1°C (33°F)

Typical Weather for Tromso and Aalborg

Aalborg Tromso
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) -4°C (25°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb -0°C (31°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) -4°C (25°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 2°C (36°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) -2°C (28°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 1°C (33°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (49°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Nov 3°C (38°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) -1°C (31°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) -3°C (27°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)