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

Should you visit Dublin or Lillehammer?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or Lillehammer, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Dublin

Dublin is a fun, laid-back, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty 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 skiing.

Dublin and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Dublin or Lillehammer?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dublin. Although Dublin and Lillehammer are popular destinations, Dublin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dublin is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, and small town charm. Dublin is more touristy than Lillehammer and is known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Dublin different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dublin or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Dublin is not a skiing destination.

People head to Lillehammer specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and 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.

Dublin is not a skiing destination.


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

Dublin
Lillehammer

Dublin 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 Dublin can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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 Dublin or Lillehammer? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lillehammer. 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.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Dublin or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Dublin is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

People head to Dublin just to party. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin or Lillehammer Better for Music?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Dublin is well known for live music. However, Lillehammer is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Lillehammer is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Lillehammer Better for its Old Town?

Dublin
Lillehammer

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

Many visitors go to Dublin to see the historical old town. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Dublin or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Lillehammer. 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.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Lillehammer?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Dublin is well known for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Dublin is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

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 Dublin or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Dublin and Lillehammer are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Dublin is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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.

Is Dublin or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Dublin and Lillehammer are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Lillehammer is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.


Is Dublin or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Dublin 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 Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

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

Is Dublin or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Dublin and Lillehammer are nice places to visit for students.

Dublin is popular with students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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.

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

Dublin
Lillehammer

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dublin and Lillehammer.

You'll find some public transit in Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

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


Is Dublin or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Dublin
Lillehammer

Dublin 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 Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center 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 Dublin Worth Visiting? and Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Dublin or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dublin due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dublin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lillehammer.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Dublin or Lillehammer? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dublin 2-5 
    Lillehammer 2-4

One day in Dublin or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the welcoming city of Dublin. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 Dublin or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of Dublin. 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 Dublin or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the fun city of Dublin. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 Dublin or Lillehammer?

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

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the natural 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Lillehammer or Dublin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dublin is €143, 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 Dublin and Lillehammer in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dublin 68
    Lillehammer 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dublin 136
    Lillehammer 116
Compare Hotels in Dublin and Lillehammer

Looking for a hotel in Dublin 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 Dublin


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: Dublin Hotel Prices and Lillehammer Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dublin 19
    Lillehammer 3.67
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dublin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Dublin:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dublin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dublin:

  • Dublin Airport Or Dublin City To Martinstown House Private Chauffeur Transfer: $286
  • 4 to 8 People Private Transfer from Dublin Airport to City Centre: $76
  • Arrival Private Transfer by Business Car from Dublin airport DUB to Dublin: $82
  • Belfast | Coach transfer from / to Dublin: $12
  • Child Friendly | Dublin Airport Transfer: $169
  • Collon House & Garden To Dublin Airport Or City Private Chauffeur Transfer : $298
  • Departure Private Transfer by Business Car from Dublin to Dublin airport DUB: $82
  • Departure Transfer: Dublin to Dublin Airport DUB in Luxury Van: $111
  • Dublin Airport & City Transfers : $182
  • Dublin Airport Or Dublin City To Bellinter House Private Chauffeur Transfer: $292
  • Dublin Airport Or Dublin City To Johnstown Estate Private Luxury Car Transfer: $221
  • Dublin Airport Or Dublin City To Rock Farm Slane Private Chauffeur Transfer: $273

Is it cheaper to fly into Dublin or Lillehammer?

Prices for flights to both Lillehammer and Dublin 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
    Dublin 49
    Lillehammer 32
Typical Food Prices in Dublin

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


  • Lunch Lynam's Pub
    3.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dublin

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

  • Walking Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $29
  • Dublin 3-Course Dinner and Live Shows at The Irish House Party: $31
  • No Diet Club - Best Food Tour in Dublin !: $59
  • Dublin Irish Night Show, Dance and Traditional 3-Course Dinner: $60
  • Grand Canal Cruise with Dinner: $72
  • Delicious Walking Food Tour: $80
  • Delicious Dublin Food Tour: $82
  • Private Cooking Class in a Modern Home with Sea Views in Skerries, Dublin: $84
  • Howth Coastal Craft Beer and Seafood Tour: $95
  • Private Market Tour and Irish Cooking Class in a Modern Skerries Home: $102
  • Irish Craic & Cuisine: Cooking Class & Dinner in Central Dublin: $106
  • Dublin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dublin 25
    Lillehammer 15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Dublin

Here are a few typical costs in Dublin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Wild Wicklow Tour
    26
  • Guinness Brewery for Two
    27
  • St Pauls Cathedral
    4.50
  • Dublin Writer's Museum
    6.30

Tours and Activities in Dublin

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Dublin Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • Retracing Viking Origins on a Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.60
  • Dublin city tour: audio guide for smartphone in French: $5.35
  • Dublin city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Dublin: $5.45
  • Turtle Bunbury's A Self-Guided Audio Tour from a Celebrated Author: $5.99
  • Temple Bar Self-Guided Must-See Highlights Tour: $6.31
  • City Highlights Self-guided Walking Tour: $6.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42

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
    Dublin 17
    Lillehammer 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Dublin

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

  • Authentic Brewery Tour: $11
  • Generation Pub Crawl: $15
  • Dublin Epic Pub Crawl: Experience Dublin's pubs and nightlife: $15
  • "Dublin Delight Pub Expedition" Pub Crawl: $16
  • The Dublin Liberties Distillery: Tour with Whiskey Tasting: $18
  • Teeling Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $21
  • Skip the Line: Teeling Whiskey Distillery Tour and Tasting in Dublin Ticket: $22
  • Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery Experience: $24
  • City Pub Crawl Experience: $24
  • Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery: Trilogy Experience: $24
  • Roe and Co Distillery Cocktail Workshop Experience: $27
  • Dublin Jameson Distillery Tour with Whiskey Tastings & Cocktail: $33


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


Which is Bigger, Dublin or Lillehammer?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Dublin 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.