A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Oslo for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Antwerp or Oslo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Oslo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a cultural, historical, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Antwerp travel costs.

Oslo

Oslo is a clean, progressive, and park-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife. See Oslo travel costs.

Antwerp and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Oslo?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Antwerp than Oslo. While Oslo is larger than Antwerp, Antwerp has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Antwerp is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Oslo attracts visitors for its big city activities. Oslo is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also well known for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antwerp or Oslo?

Antwerp
Oslo

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Antwerp and Oslo.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oslo can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.


Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Oslo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antwerp
Oslo

Antwerp is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antwerp makes for a great culinary experience. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Oslo has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.

Is Antwerp or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Oslo

Antwerp is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Antwerp has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Oslo. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.

Is Antwerp or Oslo Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Oslo

Antwerp is notable for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Oslo?

Antwerp
Oslo

Antwerp is an amazing port city to visit for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

Antwerp is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

If you're looking to go shopping, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Antwerp or Oslo Better for Families?

Antwerp
Oslo

Oslo is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Oslo is one of the most popular family destinations. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Antwerp or Oslo Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Oslo

Both Antwerp and Oslo are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Oslo is a good port city for couples to visit. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.


Is Antwerp or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Oslo

Antwerp and Oslo are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

It's common for backpackers to visit Oslo. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.

Is Antwerp or Oslo Better for Students?

Antwerp
Oslo

Antwerp and Oslo are excellent places to visit for students.

Antwerp is very popular with students. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Oslo is a great port city to visit as a student. The University of Oslo has an excellent reputation and welcomes many foreign students every year. The school does a lot to make sure international students feel at home here.

Is Antwerp or Oslo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antwerp
Oslo

Oslo is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Oslo can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.


Is Antwerp or Oslo a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Oslo

Antwerp and Oslo both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

Oslo is a very walkable destination. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Oslo?

In either Antwerp or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than Antwerp because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Oslo 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 Antwerp.


  • How many days in Antwerp or Oslo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antwerp 1-3 
    Oslo 1-5

One day in Antwerp or Oslo?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Antwerp. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because Oslo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Antwerp or Oslo?

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Because Oslo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Oslo has to offer.


Five days in Antwerp or Oslo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Antwerp. This port city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Antwerp or Oslo?

The genuine port city of Antwerp offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oslo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Oslo. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Oslo or Antwerp?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Antwerp is €152, while the average daily cost in Oslo is €127. 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 Antwerp and Oslo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Oslo 62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Oslo 124
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Antwerp or Oslo? 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 Antwerp


Hotels in Oslo


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: Antwerp Hotel Prices and Oslo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Oslo 18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Belgium: Private Airport Transfer Service: $96
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $163
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $174
  • Private Transfer to Brussels by Luxury Car: $214
  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $274

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:


  • Tram Ticket
    6.10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Airport & City Transfers in Trondheim: $131
  • Arrival Private Transfer Oslo OSL Airport to Oslo by Business Car: $115
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL by Luxury Van: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo to Oslo Airport OSL by Business Car: $114
  • Olso: Private Transfer from the City Center to Oslo Airport: $106
  • Oslo : Private Transfer to/from Gardermoen Airport to city: $211
  • Oslo Airport (OSL) to Oslo Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $179
  • Oslo Airport (OSL): Private Transfer to Oslo Cruise Port: $487
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Car: $149
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Van: $250
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Car: $147
  • Oslo City Center to Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $91

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo and Antwerp 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
    Antwerp 68
    Oslo 44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oslo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Oslo.

  • Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $93
  • 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $106
  • Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $109
  • Norwegian Food Tour & Hidden Gems of Oslo: $131
  • Norwegian Food Tour & Hidden Gems of Oslo: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antwerp 8.21
    Oslo 12

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

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

  • Historical Walking Tour in the Old City: $3.20
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.27
  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.27
  • Historical Walking Tour in Antwerp Old City: $3.27
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Antwerp in 1 Day - Walking Tour - Audioguide in 7 languages: $7.27
  • Explore Antwerp Highlights with Self-Guided GPS and Audio Tour: $7.59
  • Walking Tour with Audio guide App (Improved 09/24): $8.04
  • Antwerp City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $8.73
  • Hidden Antwerp Self Guided Tour: History, Art and Fashion: $8.99
  • Bring the Lost Boy Home in Self Guided Tour & Game: $11
  • Pub Trail an adventure full of surprises: $12

Tours and Activities in Oslo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Oslo are as follows:

  • Digging up the Past in Røros: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Guided Walking Tour in Central Oslo: $9.25
  • Tour a Pie en Oslo en Español: $9.25
  • The Fram Museum Admission Ticket: $13
  • Oslo Self Guided Walking Tour with an APP: $13
  • Oslo Self-Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $14
  • Central Oslo Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Discovering Oslo A Walking Tour of Historic Sites and Finds: $17
  • Fjord Mini Cruise by Wooden Sailing Ship: $22
  • Oslo Fjord a Mini Cruise by Wooden Sailing Ship: $22
  • Viking Planet Entry Ticket: $23
  • Paradox Museum Entry Ticket: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antwerp 18
    Oslo 7.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $66
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96


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

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


Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Oslo?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Oslo, 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 Antwerp or Oslo?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antwerp or Oslo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Oslo. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antwerp is generally around the same temperature as Oslo. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 17°C (63°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oslo this time of the year. In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Oslo during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Oslo. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F) 
    Oslo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Oslo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Oslo. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Oslo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Antwerp is much warmer than Oslo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in October than Oslo. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F) 
    Oslo 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Oslo can be very cold during winter. Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Antwerp is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antwerp in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Oslo averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Oslo. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F) 
    Oslo -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Oslo in the Spring?

Both Oslo and Antwerp during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Oslo because of the activities around the city.

In April, Antwerp is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 8°C (47°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Oslo. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Oslo. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F) 
    Oslo 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Antwerp

Antwerp Oslo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)