A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bucharest vs. Bergen for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Bucharest or Bergen?

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 Bucharest and Bergen. 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a cultural, charming, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bergen

Bergen is a laid back, nostalgic, and friendly city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Bergen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Bucharest or Bergen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bucharest than Bergen, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bucharest is more popular for its big city activities, while Bergen is known for its shopping and small town charm. Bergen is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty. Bucharest is popular for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. It is also home to The Palace of Parliament.

How is Bucharest different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bucharest or Bergen?

Bucharest
Bergen

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Bucharest and Bergen.

Bucharest offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergen. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.


Is the Food Better in Bucharest or Bergen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest
Bergen

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Bucharest and Bergen.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bucharest. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Bergen is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Bucharest or Bergen Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Bergen

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Bucharest and Bergen.

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

If you're looking for night time activities Bergen has a few options to choose from. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

Is Bucharest or Bergen Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Bergen

Visitors enjoy the good old town areas in both Bucharest and Bergen.

Many people head to Bucharest to see the old town. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Bergen has an old town worth visiting. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.


Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Bergen?

Bucharest
Bergen

Bergen is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Bergen is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Bergen Better for Families?

Bucharest
Bergen

Bergen is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Bergen is a very kid-friendly city. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Bergen Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Bergen

Bergen is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Bergen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.


Is Bucharest or Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Bergen

Bucharest and Bergen are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bergen. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Bucharest or Bergen Better for Students?

Bucharest
Bergen

Bergen is a good destination for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Bergen is popular with students. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

Is Bucharest or Bergen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bucharest
Bergen

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bucharest and Bergen.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Bergen offers a very effecient public transportation network. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.


Is Bucharest or Bergen a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Bergen

Bergen is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Bergen is a very walkable city. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? and Is Bergen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergen or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Bergen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bucharest and Bergen. In our opinion, Bergen has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bergen than Bucharest. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bergen than Bucharest 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 Bergen.


  • How many days in Bucharest or Bergen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bucharest 1-3 
    Bergen 1-3

One day in Bucharest or Bergen?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bucharest. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bergen. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bergen has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Bergen?

Bucharest 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Bergen. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Bucharest or Bergen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Bergen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Bergen?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Bucharest. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bergen is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Bergen or Bucharest?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bucharest is $137, while the average daily cost in Bergen is $108. 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 Bucharest and Bergen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $63
    Bergen $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $126
    Bergen $134
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Bergen

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or Bergen? 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 Bucharest


Hotels in Bergen


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: Bucharest Hotel Prices and Bergen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    Bergen $9.65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Therme Bucharest Express Shuttle Transfer: $7.63
  • Bucharest Airport Transfer: $11
  • Bucuresti: Transfer Therme Bucuresti different hours: $12
  • Therme Bucuresti Transfer with Optional Ticket: $13
  • Bucharest Transfer Service: $17
  • Bucharest Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Tecuci: $21
  • Airport Transfer: $21
  • Private Bucharest Otopeni Airport (OTP) Transfer: $22
  • Bucharest Private Airport Transfer from or to City Center Hotel: $22
  • Bucharest Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Barlad: $24
  • Bucharest Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Vaslui OMV: $26
  • Bucharest Otopeni Airport OTP to Bucharest City Center Hotel - private transfer: $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergen:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen City by Minibus: $198
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen by business sedan: $98
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen by luxury minivan: $112
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Cruise Port to Bergen City by Minibus: $143
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Cruise Port to Bergen City by Sedan: $80
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Cruise Port to Bergen city by luxury van: $92
  • Bergen International Airport: Private One Way Transfer: $100
  • Bergen Private Transfer from Bergen (BGO) Airport to City centre: $131
  • Bergen Private Transfer from Bergen city centre to Bergen airport: $131
  • Private Transfer from Bergen Airport to City Center: $83
  • Private Transfer to Airport, City or Cruise Port: $153
  • Private Transfer to/from Bergen Airport (BGO): $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Bergen?

Prices for flights to both Bergen and Bucharest 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
    Bucharest $58
    Bergen $31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

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

  • Dinner at the Museum of Communism - Traditional Food Tour: $53
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $60
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $65
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $74
  • Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $75
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $84
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $86
  • Private Walking Food Tour - Culture, History & Traditions: $98
  • Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $141
  • Cooking Class in Transylvania - Day Tour from Bucharest: $182
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $202

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergen

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

  • Guided Fishing Tour with Outdoor Cooking: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Bergen $16

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

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

  • Tour Reyes y Palacios Bucarest: $11
  • Reptiland Bucharest Entry Ticket: $13
  • Communism Walking Tour from Lenin to Ceausescu in Bucharest: $13
  • A Tale of Bucharest Old Town Walking Tour: $16
  • City Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $17
  • Bucharest Highlights Walking Tour: $17
  • Calea Victoriei and Old Town Highlights Tour: $19
  • Parliament Palace Skip-the-line Ticket: $20
  • Palace of Parliament Bucharest 1 Hour Guided Tour: $21
  • Virtual Reality Experience: $21
  • Buchaest: Peles Castle, Bran Castle, & Brasov Old Town Tour: $21
  • Guided Tour at museum Casa Storck: $21

Tours and Activities in Bergen

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

  • Explore Bergen with Passionate Tour Guides: $3.21
  • Visita a pie Bergen NORDIC FREEDOM TOURS: $4.96
  • Guided Walking Tour: $4.96
  • Bergen Golden Circle Fjortour by Minibus: $5.00
  • Off the Beaten Track in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Bergen University District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Walk with a witch: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Walk with a Witch in 16th Century A Self-Guided Fictional Tour: $6.99
  • Walking Tour of Central Bergen: $7.63
  • Pocket Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Pocket Bryggen: A Self-Guided Audio tour in Bergen: $8.99
  • Bergen 3-Hour Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.17
    Bergen $6.87

Sample the Local Flavors in Bucharest

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

  • Weekend Pub Crawl: $24
  • Bucharest Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $25
  • From Romanian Wine Tasting Tour: $26
  • Bachelors Party in Custom Bar Crawl: $37
  • Private Bar Crawling in Bucharest Old City: $43
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bucharest: $43
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $47
  • Romanian Wine Tasting: $49
  • Private Romanian Wine Tasting in Urlați: $51
  • Bucharest Old Town Pub and Bar Crawl with Guide: $57
  • Bucharest VIP Bar Crawl in Lipscani 'Old Town': $59
  • Bucharest City Tour and Wine Tasting: $84


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Bergen?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Bergen. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Bergen, 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 Bucharest or Bergen?

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 Bucharest or Bergen in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Bucharest is much warmer than Bergen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bucharest in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Bergen averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Bergen. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F) 
    Bergen 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Bergen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Bergen. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bergen in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 13°C (55°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Bergen. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F) 
    Bergen 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Bergen in the Winter?

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

Bergen can be very cold during winter. Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. Bucharest is much colder than Bergen in the winter. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around -1°C (29°F) in January, and Bergen fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Bergen. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F) 
    Bergen 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Bergen in the Spring?

Both Bergen and Bucharest during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bergen because of the small town charm.

In the spring, Bucharest is much warmer than Bergen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bucharest in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Bergen averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than Bergen. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F) 
    Bergen 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Bergen and Bucharest

Bucharest Bergen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in) 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Nov 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in)