A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dusseldorf vs. Alesund for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Alesund?

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 Dusseldorf and Alesund. 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.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a historic, fun-filled, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Alesund

Alesund is a friendly, scenic, and laid back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf and Alesund: 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
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Alesund?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dusseldorf. Although Dusseldorf and Alesund are both popular with visitors, Dusseldorf has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dusseldorf is more popular for its historical sights, while Alesund is known for its impressive beauty. Dusseldorf is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. It is also home to Altstadt (the Old Town). Alesund is popular for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords.

How is Dusseldorf different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dusseldorf or Alesund?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Both Dusseldorf and Alesund have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Dusseldorf is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

Alesund offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.


Is the Food Better in Dusseldorf or Alesund? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Both Dusseldorf and Alesund offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dusseldorf makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Alesund has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

Is Dusseldorf or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

It's hard to distinguish whether Dusseldorf or Alesund has a better nightlife scene.

Dusseldorf has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

If you're looking for night time activities Alesund has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

Is Dusseldorf or Alesund Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Dusseldorf is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Alesund?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Shopping is a popular activity in both Alesund and Dusseldorf.

Dusseldorf is a great destination for shopping. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Dusseldorf or Alesund Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Dusseldorf is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly place to visit. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Alesund is a family-friendly city. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Is Dusseldorf or Alesund Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Dusseldorf is a well-known place for romance. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Dusseldorf is a very popular place to visit for couples. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Alesund makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.


Is Dusseldorf or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Dusseldorf is a popular place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Dusseldorf or Alesund Better for Students?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Alesund is a good destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Alesund is popular with students. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Is Dusseldorf or Alesund Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Dusseldorf is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Dusseldorf can get you around easily. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.


Is Dusseldorf or Alesund a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Alesund

Dusseldorf is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Dusseldorf Worth Visiting? and Is Alesund Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Alesund?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dusseldorf and Alesund. In our opinion, Dusseldorf has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Dusseldorf than Alesund. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Alesund 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 Dusseldorf.


  • How many days in Dusseldorf or Alesund? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dusseldorf 2-3 
    Alesund 2-3

One day in Dusseldorf or Alesund?

In Dusseldorf, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the laid back city of Alesund, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dusseldorf or Alesund?

In Dusseldorf, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dusseldorf has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Alesund, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Dusseldorf or Alesund?

Dusseldorf is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Alesund, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Dusseldorf or Alesund?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dusseldorf. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Alesund is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. 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 from Munich, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best Tours for Seniors to Norway, and The Best Contiki Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Alesund or Dusseldorf?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dusseldorf is €185, while the average daily cost in Alesund is €93. 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 Dusseldorf and Alesund in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Alesund 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Alesund 98
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Alesund

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf or Alesund? 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 Dusseldorf


Hotels in Alesund


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: Dusseldorf Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Alesund 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund (AES) Airport to City centre: $135
  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund city centre to Aalesund airport: $135
  • Alesund to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES)-Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $71
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Geiranger Port: $185
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Alesund Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Molde Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Olden Cruise Port: $60
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Cruise Port to Alesund City Hotels: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Dusseldorf or Alesund?

Prices for flights to both Alesund and Dusseldorf 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
    Dusseldorf 76
    Alesund 28
Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

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


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

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

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dusseldorf 25
    Alesund 15

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

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

  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Night watchman tour: $22
  • Guided Walking Tour in Dusseldorf: $22
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Düsseldorf in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Dusseldorf Old Town and Altbier Tour: $25
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44

Tours and Activities in Alesund

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

  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $42
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $42
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • Varden Molde Panorama Hike Tour: $46
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $55
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $64
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $102
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $111
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $121
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $125
  • Sightseeing Tour in Trollstigen - Land of Trolls: $140
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $140

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Alesund 11
Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


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

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


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Alesund?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf and Alesund, 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 Dusseldorf or Alesund?

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 Dusseldorf or Alesund in the Summer?

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

Dusseldorf is much warmer than Alesund in the summer. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Alesund fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In July, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Alesund. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Alesund 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Alesund in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Alesund. Many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Alesund in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Dusseldorf is a little warmer than Alesund. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dusseldorf in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Alesund averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Alesund. Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in October than Alesund. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F) 
    Alesund 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Alesund in the Winter?

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

Alesund can be very cold during winter. Dusseldorf can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Dusseldorf is generally around the same temperature as Alesund. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 3°C (37°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Alesund. In January, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Alesund. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Alesund 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Alesund in the Spring?

Both Alesund and Dusseldorf during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Alesund because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

The weather in Alesund can be very cold. Dusseldorf is much warmer than Alesund in the spring. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Alesund fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in April than Alesund. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F) 
    Alesund 5°C (40°F)

Typical Weather for Alesund and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Alesund
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (40°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 188 mm (7.4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 187 mm (7.4 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 4°C (38°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)