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

Should you visit Bruges or Lillehammer?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Lillehammer. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a historic, charming, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a adventure-filled, sporty, and natural city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Bruges and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Lillehammer?

Both Lillehammer and Bruges have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Bruges is better known for its museums, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Lillehammer is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Bruges is more touristy than Lillehammer and is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Lillehammer is well known for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Bruges different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Bruges or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is great for skiing. However, Bruges is not a skiing destination.

Lillehammer draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Bruges is not a skiing destination.

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

Bruges 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 Bruges can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

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 Bruges or Lillehammer? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Bruges and Lillehammer offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

Bruges has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

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.

Is Bruges or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Bruges and Lillehammer.

If you're looking for night time activities Bruges has a few options to choose from. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lillehammer. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is Bruges or Lillehammer Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Bruges is revered around the world. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Bruges or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer is great for hiking. However, Bruges is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Lillehammer for the hiking trails. 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.

Bruges is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Lillehammer?

If you're looking to go shopping, Bruges and Lillehammer both offer plenty of notable spots.

Bruges has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Lillehammer is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Bruges or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Lillehammer is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lillehammer. 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.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Bruges or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Bruges and Lillehammer both great destinations for a couple.

Bruges is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

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.

Is Bruges or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges 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 Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

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

Is Bruges or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Lillehammer is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Bruges and Lillehammer both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Bruges offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Lillehammer has a few public transit options. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Bruges or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Bruges 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 Bruges on foot is easy. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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 Bruges Worth Visiting? and Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Bruges 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 Bruges, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lillehammer.

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

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

One day in Bruges or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Bruges. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Lillehammer. 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 Bruges or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Bruges. 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.

Lillehammer 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.

Five days in Bruges or Lillehammer?

The cultural city of Bruges 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lillehammer. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Bruges or Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bruges. 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.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Lillehammer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bruges and Lillehammer, we can see that Bruges 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 Bruges would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bruges 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 Bruges Expensive? and Is Lillehammer Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Lillehammer?

Bruges has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Bruges 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.