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

Should you visit Bratislava or Tromso?

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

Should I visit Bratislava or Tromso? 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 historical, under-rated, and genuine city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a spectacular, remote, and one-of-a-kind town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Bratislava 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights


Is there more to do in Bratislava or Tromso?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bratislava than Tromso. Bratislava is bigger than Tromso, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bratislava is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Tromso is more popular for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tromso is more touristy than Bratislava and is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords. Bratislava is well known for its local beer, charming old town, and scenic mountain setting. Also, Bratislava is famous for The Bratislava Castle.

How is Bratislava different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bratislava
Tromso

Bratislava is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bratislava. 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.

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 Bratislava or Tromso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bratislava
Tromso

Tromso 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, Tromso makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Bratislava
Tromso

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

The nightlife in Bratislava has something for everybody. 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.

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 Bratislava or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Bratislava
Tromso

Bratislava is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Bratislava is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with diverse architecture as well as traditional and upscale restaurants.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.


Is Bratislava or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Bratislava
Tromso

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

Tromso is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Bratislava is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bratislava or Tromso?

Bratislava
Tromso

Bratislava is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

Bratislava has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

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 Bratislava or Tromso Better for Families?

Bratislava
Tromso

Tromso 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.

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.

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 Tromso Better for Couples?

Bratislava
Tromso

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

Tromso is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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 Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bratislava
Tromso

Bratislava is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

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

Is Bratislava or Tromso Better for Students?

Bratislava
Tromso

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

Tromso is a good town to visit for students. 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.

Bratislava is not popular with students.


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

Bratislava
Tromso

Bratislava is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bratislava. There are trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Bratislava or Tromso a more walkable city?

Bratislava
Tromso

Bratislava is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Bratislava?

How long in Bratislava or Tromso?

Both Bratislava 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 Bratislava. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bratislava, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

Families should spend more time in Tromso than Bratislava. 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.

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


  • How many days in Bratislava or Tromso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bratislava 1-3 
    Tromso 4-7

One day in Bratislava or Tromso?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Bratislava. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Tromso?

Bratislava 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.

Even though Tromso is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Bratislava or Tromso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bratislava. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Tromso, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Bratislava or Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxed destination of Bratislava. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Tromso is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Tromso 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 Tromso is €104. 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 Tromso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bratislava 49
    Tromso 52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bratislava 98
    Tromso 104
Compare Hotels in Bratislava and Tromso

Looking for a hotel in Bratislava 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 Bratislava


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: Bratislava Hotel Prices and Tromso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bratislava 26
    Tromso 27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bratislava

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bratislava:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tromso

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

  • Private Airport and City Transfer in Tromso: $82
  • Highway to Heaven - Aurora Cable Car Transfer in Tromsø: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Bratislava or Tromso?

Prices for flights to both Tromso 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
    Tromso 36

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

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

  • 3 Hours Private Walking Food Tour in Norway: $167
  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $173
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $186
  • Fjord Cruise Expedition with Dinner,Tromso: $206
  • Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner: $250
  • Aurora Borealis Cruise with Dinner in Tromso: $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bratislava 30
    Tromso 16

Tours and Activities in Bratislava

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

  • Bratislava Premium Private Walking Tour, 4 hours: $224
  • Magic Christmas tour in Komarno: $234
  • Banska Stiavnica from Bratislava, UNESCO Day Tour: $229
  • Beautiful Bratislava Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Beer Factory Tour with Beer Tasting in Banska Bystrica: $158
  • Bratislava - Bike Tour: $53
  • Bratislava - Grand City Tour: $84
  • Bratislava Big Castle Tour by Presporacik: $18
  • Bratislava Brunch Tour: $93
  • Bratislava Card with Public Transport Option & Walking Tour: $25
  • Bratislava Castle: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Bratislava City Private Walking Tour: $27

Tours and Activities in Tromso

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

  • Touring-Trekking Bicycle Rental in Tromso - 1 to 2 Days: $46
  • Experience the Full Steam Storytelling Package: $46
  • Tromso Embrace the Spirits of the North Tasting Experience: $63
  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $74
  • Experience Cross-Country Adventure in Tromsø: $93
  • Northern Lights Walking Tour: $111
  • Fjord & History Cruise: $111
  • Tromso Sightseeing with E-Bike: $112
  • Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso: $117
  • History Fjordcruise Around The Isle Of Tromso - Luxury Catamaran: $121
  • From Tromso all- inclusive Midnight sun cruise by Boat: $126
  • Puppy Training Experience at a Husky Farm in Tromso: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bratislava 19
    Tromso 7.84

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 Tromso, we can see that Bratislava 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 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 Tromso.

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


Which is Bigger, Bratislava or Tromso?

Bratislava has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Bratislava 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 Bratislava 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 Bratislava or Tromso in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bratislava as well as Tromso. Many visitors come to Bratislava in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Tromso for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bratislava is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Bratislava average around 23°C (73°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tromso. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bratislava this time of the year. In the summer, Bratislava often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Bratislava gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Bratislava usually gets less rain in July than Tromso. Bratislava 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
    Bratislava 23°C (73°F) 
    Tromso 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Bratislava or Tromso in the Autumn?

Both Tromso and Bratislava are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bratislava for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Tromso because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. Bratislava is much warmer than Tromso in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bratislava averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Bratislava usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Bratislava gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tromso. In October, Bratislava usually receives less rain than Tromso. Bratislava gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bratislava 12°C (54°F) 
    Tromso 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Bratislava or Tromso in the Winter?

Both Tromso and Bratislava during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Bratislava because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the winter. The weather in Bratislava can be very cold. In the winter, Bratislava is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bratislava in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Tromso averages at about -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Bratislava often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Bratislava gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Bratislava usually gets less rain in January than Tromso. Bratislava gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bratislava 2°C (36°F) 
    Tromso -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Bratislava or Tromso in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bratislava and Tromso. The natural beauty are the main draw to Bratislava this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tromso for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. In April, Bratislava is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Bratislava average around 13°C (55°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In Bratislava, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bratislava usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during spring. Bratislava gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bratislava usually receives less rain than Tromso. Bratislava gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bratislava 13°C (55°F) 
    Tromso 1°C (33°F)

Typical Weather for Tromso and Bratislava

Bratislava Tromso
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) -4°C (25°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) -4°C (25°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) -2°C (28°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 1°C (33°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in) -1°C (31°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) -3°C (27°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)