A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Berlin vs. Lofoten Islands for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin or Lofoten Islands, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Berlin

Berlin is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a pristine, charming, and quaint archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

Berlin and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Berlin than Lofoten Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Berlin is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Lofoten Islands is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Berlin is more touristy than Lofoten Islands and is popular for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. Also, Berlin is famous for the Brandenburg Gate. Lofoten Islands is well known for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses.

How is Berlin different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Berlin is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Berlin are among the most recognizable in the world. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lofoten Islands. The charming towns often have local museums that highlight the region's history and culture. The Lofoten War Memorial Museum is in the town of Svolvaer. The Lofotr Viking Museum is on the island of Vestvågøy and the Lofoten Museum is in Kabelvåg.


Is the Food Better in Berlin or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Dining out at restaurants in both Berlin and Lofoten Islands can be an enjoyable experience.

Berlin has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Dining out in Lofoten Islands is an experience not to be missed. Fish and lamb are both common at most restaurants in the area. The food is fresh, delicious, and filling, and although it's expensive, it's also high quality and uniquely local.

Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Berlin is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its evening party scene.

Berlin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Lofoten Islands. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for Music?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Berlin is very popular for its live music scene. However, Lofoten Islands is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Berlin From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Lofoten Islands is not a live music destination.


Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for the beache. However, Berlin is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Lofoten Islands. Most people don't think of the Arctic when they think about beaches, but these islands have long sandy beaches that meet blue waters. They're tucked in between valleys and mountains and offer a surreal Arctic landscape.

Berlin is not a beach destination.

Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for its old town. However, Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Lofoten Islands to see the historical old town. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Lofoten Islands draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. It's remote setting and dramatic scenery lead to some truly breathtaking hikes. You'll find trails that pass by beautiful beaches, climb spectacular peaks, and wander through the beautiful countryside. Reinebringen, Horseid Beach, and Bunes Beach are among the favorite hikes in the area.

Berlin is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Berlin is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Berlin make it a world-class shopping destination. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Lofoten Islands has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.

Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Berlin and Lofoten Islands are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Berlin is very family-friendly. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Lofoten Islands is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids will enjoy.

Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Lofoten Islands has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stunning views, dramatic fjords, and world class outdoor adventures make this an amazing romantic destination for couples. If you enjoy the outdoors and adventure activities, then there is no shortage of opportunities to explore here.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.


Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Berlin is very popular for backpackers. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Berlin. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Lofoten Islands. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for Students?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Berlin is very popular for students. However, Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Berlin. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Berlin is very popular for its public transit. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Berlin has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lofoten Islands. There are buses and ferries, but the service is limited, although reliable.


Is Berlin or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Berlin
Lofoten Islands

Berlin is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its ease of walking around.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable place. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

Lofoten Islands is not a very walkable city. Although the area is filled with hikes, you really must have a car if you hope to explore it with flexibility and accessibility.

For even more information, also check out Is Berlin Worth Visiting? and Is Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

Both Berlin and Lofoten Islands have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Berlin has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Berlin than Lofoten Islands. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Berlin, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin than Lofoten Islands 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 Berlin.


  • How many days in Berlin or Lofoten Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berlin 2-7 
    Lofoten Islands 4-7

One day in Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

Berlin is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lofoten Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

Berlin is a big city with plenty to do. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Lofoten Islands is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

Berlin is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lofoten Islands. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

Berlin is a big city with plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Lofoten Islands. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.


Which place is cheaper, Lofoten Islands or Berlin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Berlin is €137, while the average daily cost in Lofoten Islands is €50. 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 Berlin and Lofoten Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berlin 64
    Lofoten Islands 6.67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berlin 128
    Lofoten Islands 13
Compare Hotels in Berlin and Lofoten Islands

Looking for a hotel in Berlin or Lofoten Islands? 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 Berlin


Hotels in Lofoten Islands


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: Berlin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berlin 18
    Lofoten Islands 9.86
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Berlin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Berlin:


  • Short Trip Metro Ticket
    1.40
  • Bahn Ticket
    3.00
  • Short Taxi Ride
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berlin

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

  • Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL) to Berlin - Arrival Private Transfer : $25
  • Berlin Airport (BER) to Berlin - Arrival Private Transfer: $31
  • Berlin Airport (SXF) to Berlin - Arrival Private Transfer : $31
  • Private Transfer from Berlin Airport to Hotels in Berlin: $46
  • Listening Station Teufelsberg Tour with Transfer: $52
  • Berlin Airport (SXF) to Berlin - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $63
  • Milan: Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $64
  • Private Transfer from Brandenburg Airport to Berlin City Center: $70
  • Arrival Transfer from Berlin Train Station to Berlin by Sedan: $72
  • Berlin City Departure Private Transfer to Berlin Train Station in Luxury Car: $78
  • Berlin City Departure Private Transfer to Berlin Train Station in Luxury Van: $78
  • Private Transfer to / from Brandenburg Airport (BER): $86

Is it cheaper to fly into Berlin or Lofoten Islands?

Prices for flights to both Lofoten Islands and Berlin 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
    Berlin 52
    Lofoten Islands 32
Typical Food Prices in Berlin

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Berlin:


  • Sandwich and Coffee To Go
    5.00
  • Turkish Sandwich
    2.00
  • Currywurst
    2.00
  • 2 Pho Noodles
    9.00
  • Restaurant Dinner and Beers (for 2)
    60
  • Mauer Park (2)
    11
  • Coffees at Impala
    7.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berlin

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

  • English Stand-Up Comedy with Pizza and Shots: $19
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • English Comedy Showcase Including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $28
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin With Set Lunch or Dinner : $34
  • Kreuzberg kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Berlin Mitte kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • No Diet Club - Street Food Tour with many Tastings !: $59
  • Evening Yacht Cruise with Aperitif & Optional Dinner: $63
  • Sicilian Cooking Workshop with unlimited drinks: $70
  • Evening Food Tour by Bike: $70
  • Sharing plate food tour in Berlin: $76
  • Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berlin 22
    Lofoten Islands 23
Typical Entertainment Prices in Berlin

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


  • Berlin Zoo (2)
    20

Tours and Activities in Berlin

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

  • Self-Guided Photo Tour with Digital hybrid Photobook: $0.53
  • Berlin Walking Tour: $2.62
  • Berlin Alternative Street Art Tour: $2.62
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Old Berlin": $3.20
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Center of Power": $3.20
  • Third Reich and Holocaust Self Guided Audio Tour: $3.21
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Berlin: $3.21
  • Rude Bastards tour of Medieval Berlin: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Escape Game and Tour: $3.74
  • Museum Island Self Guided Audio Tour: $3.74
  • Berlin tour - Free offer - in Italian: $3.74

Tours and Activities in Lofoten Islands

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

  • From Leknes port: Special Summer Guided Tour of Lofoten : $126
  • Sea Kayak Guided Tours on Skrova Island: $115
  • Small-Group Cultural Walking Tour of Skrova: $33
  • Winter Half Day Kayak Tour: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berlin 16
    Lofoten Islands 0.67
Typical Alcohol Prices in Berlin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Berlin from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Show
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Berlin

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

  • Original One80 Berlin Pub Crawl: $16
  • VIP Pub Crawl with Drinks and Challenges: $16
  • brewery tour with beer tasting: $19
  • Vagabund Brauerei Beer Tasting & Guided Brewery Tour: $24
  • Pub Crawl with Skip-the-Line Club Entry: $24
  • Berlin Pub Crawl and Nightlife Clubbing tour: $26
  • The Showgirls of Burlesque: $46
  • Showgirls of Burlesque Entry Ticket: $69
  • Berlin:sunset boat trip with Argentine wine tasting and food: $214
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $250
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $255
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


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

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