A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bratislava vs. Lillehammer for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Bratislava or Lillehammer?

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

Should I visit Bratislava or Lillehammer? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bratislava

Bratislava is a under-rated, genuine, and cultural city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a sporty, natural, and adventure-filled city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Bratislava and Lillehammer: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bratislava or Lillehammer?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lillehammer. Although Bratislava and Lillehammer are both popular with visitors, Lillehammer has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lillehammer is more popular for its skiing, food, hiking, and small town charm, while Bratislava is known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Lillehammer is more touristy than Bratislava and is known for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics. It is also home to Lillehammer Olympic Park. Bratislava is popular for its local beer, charming old town, and scenic mountain setting.

How is Bratislava different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Bratislava or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is notable for snow skiing. However, Bratislava is not a skiing destination.

Lillehammer is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Bratislava is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bratislava or Lillehammer?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Bratislava is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bratislava can be an interesting and educational experience. Despite its small size, the city is packed with interesting sights and attractions. A highlight of a visit is exploring the Bratislava Castle. Other notable sights include Michael's Gate, the Slovak National Theatre, Grassalkovich Palace, and Primate's Palace & Hall of Mirrors.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

Is the Food Better in Bratislava or Lillehammer? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lillehammer makes for a great culinary experience. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Bratislava has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Slovakian food is hearty and uses a few staple ingredients like cheese and dumplings. The dishes are warm and filling on a cool day, so it's nice to step into a cozy restaurant and rest after a day of exploring. Popular local dishes include bryndzové halušky (sheep's cheese gnocchi), kapustnica (cabbage soup), and goulash.

Is Bratislava or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Bratislava is well known for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Bratislava is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has grown in popularity as a center for nightlife with many people visiting from nearby Vienna. There are a growing number of stag and hen parties around town, but you'll also find sophisticated wine bars and a refined social scene. Many of the city's clubs are found in old town around Michalská, Obchodná and Ventúrska streets as well as Hviezdoslavovo and SNP squares.

If you're looking for night time activities Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.


Is Bratislava or Lillehammer Better for its Old Town?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Bratislava is well known for its historic old town. However, Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bratislava to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with diverse architecture as well as traditional and upscale restaurants.

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Bratislava or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Bratislava is not a hiking destination.

Lillehammer is a popular spot for hiking. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Bratislava is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bratislava or Lillehammer?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Both Bratislava and Lillehammer are good shopping destinations.

Bratislava is a great destination for shopping. Shopping has come to life here, with three large shopping malls and many shopping streets where you'll find local boutiques. The city has both global brands as well as more traditional shops where you can buy local items. Popular things to purchase while you're in town include traditional clothing, wooden crosses, corn husk dolls, and local alcohol such as slivovica.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.


Is Bratislava or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lillehammer is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

Bratislava is a family-friendly city. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the lack of tourist crowds when compared to other European cities, even during school holidays. You can explore the city and enjoy a laid back vibe without the chaos of navigating through tour groups and large crowds. There's also a nice old town as well as gardens, playgrounds, palaces, and the Bratislava Castle.

Is Bratislava or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is notable for romance. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Lillehammer is a very popular place to visit for couples. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Bratislava makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that enjoy stepping away from tourist crowds will appreciate this relaxed city. There is the beautiful Janko Kráľ Park as well as the Bratislava Castle that you can explore. It's enjoyable to simply walk around the old town and soak up the atmosphere as well. There are also many great restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy a night out.

Is Bratislava or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Bratislava is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bratislava. The city offers an affordable and unique alternative to some of the larger and well known cities that are nearby. There are a couple of hostels and some affordable hotels that will help you keep your expenses down.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.


Is Bratislava or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a popular place for students. However, Bratislava is not popular with students.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for students. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

Bratislava is not popular with students.

Is Bratislava or Lillehammer Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Bratislava is well known for its public transit. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bratislava. There are trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

While Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Bratislava or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Bratislava
Lillehammer

Bratislava is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Bratislava on foot is easy. One of the best ways to experience the city is to walk around. The old town is also a large pedestrian zone.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.


For even more information, also check out Is Bratislava Worth Visiting? and Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Bratislava?

How long in Bratislava or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Bratislava or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lillehammer due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bratislava, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lillehammer.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bratislava than Lillehammer 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 Bratislava.


  • How many days in Bratislava or Lillehammer? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bratislava 1-3 
    Lillehammer 2-4

One day in Bratislava or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Bratislava. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With nightlife and food around the natural city of Lillehammer, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bratislava or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Bratislava. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With food and shopping around the destination of Lillehammer, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Bratislava or Lillehammer?

The genuine city of Bratislava offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Lillehammer, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Bratislava or Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bratislava. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lillehammer is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Slovakia, The Best River Cruises in Slovakia, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Lillehammer or Bratislava?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bratislava is €122, while the average daily cost in Lillehammer is €96. 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 Bratislava and Lillehammer in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bratislava 49
    Lillehammer 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bratislava 98
    Lillehammer 116
Compare Hotels in Bratislava and Lillehammer

Looking for a hotel in Bratislava or Lillehammer? 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 Bratislava


Hotels in Lillehammer


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: Bratislava Hotel Prices and Lillehammer Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bratislava 26
    Lillehammer 3.67

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bratislava

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bratislava:

  • Bratislava - Budapest Transfer: $199
  • Bratislava Airport (BTS) to Bojnice Resorts - Round Trip Transfer: $131
  • Bratislava Airport BTS to Piestany Round Trip Private Transfer: $94
  • Bratislava Airport to Bojnice Resorts - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava Airport to Turčianske Teplice Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava-Budapest One-Way Sightseeing Transfer: $295
  • Airport to Hotel Private Transfer Service: $24
  • Private Direct Transfer From Bratislava to Vienna City Center: $87
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava City to Vienna City: $98
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest with 2h of Sightseeing: $202
  • Private transfer from Bratislava to Vienna: $263
  • Vienna Airport VIE to Bojnice Resorts Round Trip Private Transfer: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Bratislava or Lillehammer?

Prices for flights to both Lillehammer and Bratislava 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
    Bratislava 45
    Lillehammer 32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bratislava

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

  • Local Beer & Food Tour: $142
  • Bratislava Traditional Food Tour: $169

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bratislava 30
    Lillehammer 15

Tours and Activities in Bratislava

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Top experience walking tour with bonus and castle: $4.36
  • Bratislava Old Town In App Audio Tour (ENG): $5.43
  • City & Castle Tour - Introduction to Bratislava: $5.45
  • Historic City Centre Self-guided Tour: $6.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Bratislava Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Gallery Multium Entrance Ticket: $6.95
  • Gallery Multium Entrance Ticket: $7.10
  • The jewels of Bratislava a Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87

Tours and Activities in Lillehammer

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

  • Maihaugen Open-Air Museum, Lillehammer. Entry Ticket: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bratislava 19
    Lillehammer 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Bratislava

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bratislava:

  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier in Bratislava: $14
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier: $15
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $16
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $21
  • Bratislava 3-Hour Wine Tasting: $104
  • Devin Castle Tour with Currant Wine Tasting: $144
  • Devin Castle Tour with Wine Tasting: $158
  • Bratislava Food and Wine Tour: $180
  • Little Carpathian Wine Tour: $201
  • 6-Hour Carpathian Wine Tour and Tasting: $209


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bratislava or Lillehammer?

Bratislava has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Bratislava and Lillehammer, 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.