A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Stockholm for Old Town, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cesis or Stockholm?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Stockholm can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a quaint, small, and authentic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a clean, coastal, and safe city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Cesis and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cesis or Stockholm?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Stockholm than Cesis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Stockholm is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cesis is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Stockholm is more touristy than Cesis and is known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. Also, Stockholm is famous for Gamla Stan (the old town). Cesis is well known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

Gamla Stan (the old town)
Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Cesis different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or Stockholm?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cesis or Stockholm? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is a city with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Stockholm. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Stockholm is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Stockholm Better for Music?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is renowned for its live music scene. However, Cesis is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Cesis is not a live music destination.


Is Cesis or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is renowned for its old town. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Stockholm is one of the most recognized in the world. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Is Cesis or Stockholm Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Stockholm

Cesis is a town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Cesis. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Stockholm?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cesis or Stockholm Better for Families?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Stockholm is an extremely popular city to visit for families. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Is Cesis or Stockholm Better for Couples?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Stockholm is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Stockholm

Cesis and Stockholm are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cesis is a good town to visit for backpackers. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.


Is Cesis or Stockholm Better for Students?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is a city with good options for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

Stockholm is popular with students. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

Cesis is not popular with students.

Is Cesis or Stockholm Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is renowned for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Stockholm has a great public transit system. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Stockholm a more walkable city?

Cesis
Stockholm

Stockholm is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Stockholm on foot is easy. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Stockholm?

Both Cesis and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-7 days is enough time in Stockholm.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Stockholm than Cesis 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 Stockholm.


  • How many days in Cesis or Stockholm? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Stockholm 2-7

One day in Cesis or Stockholm?

Even though Cesis is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cesis has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the live music. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Cesis or Stockholm?

Cesis is a small town where visitors enjoy the . This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Stockholm?

Cesis is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the live music. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Cesis or Stockholm?

Cesis 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.

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.


Which place is cheaper, Stockholm or Cesis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €108, while the average daily cost in Stockholm is €157. 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 Cesis and Stockholm in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Stockholm 90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Stockholm 180
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Stockholm

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or Stockholm? 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 Cesis


Hotels in Stockholm


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: Stockholm Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    Stockholm 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

  • Stockholm to Stockholm Airport (ARN) - Departure Transfer: $49
  • Airport Limousine Transfer: Bromma Airport to Stockholm City 1-7 Passengers: $132
  • Airport Limousine Transfer: Stockholm City to Bromma Airport 1-7 Passengers: $132
  • Airport Transfer By Business Van - Arlanda Airport - Sthlm City : $207
  • Airport Transfer By Luxuary First Class , Arlanda Airport-Sthlm City: $245
  • Arlanda Airport Bus Transfer Departure: $17
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bromma Airport BMA to Stockholm City by Business Car: $134
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bromma Airport BMA to Stockholm City by Luxury Van: $143
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Stockholm Port to Stockholm City by Business Car: $123
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Stockholm Port to Stockholm City by Luxury Car: $141
  • Cruise port VIP Transfer: Cruise port to Stockholm city center 1-6 Passangers: $161
  • Departure Private Transfer Stockholm City to Bromma Airport BMA by Business Car: $123

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Stockholm?

Prices for flights to both Stockholm and Cesis 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
    Cesis 41
    Stockholm 33
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cesis:


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

Typical Food Prices in Stockholm

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Stockholm:


  • Breakfast
    8.55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stockholm

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

  • Self Guided Taysta Food Tour in Stockholm: $33
  • Food Tour: $101
  • Stockholm Food Tour: $104
  • Stockholm Walking Food Tour With Small Group: $119
  • From Wildlife Safari with Campfire Dinner: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis 16
    Stockholm 23

Tours and Activities in Stockholm

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

  • 2-Hour Free Walking Tour in Stockholm: $0.92
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Tour Gratis Estocolmo La Ciudad Vieja Isla los Caballerosen: $4.41
  • Central A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Central A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Gamla Stan's Landmarks and legends: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • History and Secrets of Gamla Audio Guided Walking Tour: $6.20
  • Stockholm City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Stockholm Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Highlights Tour: $6.95
  • Gamla Stan: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Stockholm’s Old City: $6.99
  • Walking Tour of Stockholm's City Center: $7.64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis 17
    Stockholm 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Stockholm

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

  • Original Stockholm Pub Crawl: $32
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $280
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $288


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Stockholm?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis and Stockholm, 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 Cesis or Stockholm?

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 Cesis or Stockholm in the Summer?

Both Stockholm and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year.

Cesis is around the same temperature as Stockholm in the summer. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In July, Cesis usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Stockholm 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Stockholm in the Autumn?

Both Stockholm and Cesis during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cesis is around the same temperature as Stockholm. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cesis in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Stockholm averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Cesis usually gets more rain in October than Stockholm. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Stockholm 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Stockholm in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Stockholm. Many travelers come to Cesis for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Stockholm in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Stockholm can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cesis. In January, Cesis is generally much colder than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around -5°C (23°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Cesis usually receives less rain than Stockholm. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Stockholm -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Stockholm in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Stockholm. Many visitors come to Cesis in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Cesis is around the same temperature as Stockholm in the spring. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Cesis usually gets more rain in April than Stockholm. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Stockholm 5°C (41°F)

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Cesis

Cesis Stockholm
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) -3°C (27°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 0°C (33°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 12°C (54°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) -1°C (31°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)