A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dusseldorf vs. Flam for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Flam?

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 Flam. 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 vibrant, historic, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Flam

Flam is a beautiful, natural, and breathtaking village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and hiking.

Dusseldorf and Flam: 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Flam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dusseldorf. Although Dusseldorf and Flam are both popular with visitors, Dusseldorf has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dusseldorf is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Flam is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Flam is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is popular for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port. 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).

How is Dusseldorf different from Flam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Flam 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 Flam?

Dusseldorf
Flam

Dusseldorf is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.


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

Dusseldorf
Flam

Both Dusseldorf and Flam offer excellent 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).

Flam has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants as well.

Is Dusseldorf or Flam Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Flam

Dusseldorf is a good destination for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.

Is Dusseldorf or Flam Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Flam

Dusseldorf is a great city for its historic old town. However, Flam does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Flam does not have a historic old town.


Is Dusseldorf or Flam Better for Hiking?

Dusseldorf
Flam

Flam is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dusseldorf is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Flam. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Dusseldorf is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Flam?

Dusseldorf
Flam

Dusseldorf is a good destination for shopping. However, Flam is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dusseldorf. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.

Is Dusseldorf or Flam Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Flam

Both Dusseldorf and Flam are excellent family-friendly destinations.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Flam is very family-friendly. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.


Is Dusseldorf or Flam Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Flam

Dusseldorf and Flam both excellent destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Dusseldorf frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Flam is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.

Is Dusseldorf or Flam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Flam

Dusseldorf and Flam are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Dusseldorf
Flam

Dusseldorf is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its public transit.

Visitors in Dusseldorf can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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.

Flam has a few public transit options. There is a local bus service through the area.


Is Dusseldorf or Flam a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Flam

Dusseldorf and Flam both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Flam is a very walkable city. There are many great walks in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Flam or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Flam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Dusseldorf or Flam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Dusseldorf than Flam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Dusseldorf, and 1-2 days is enough time in Flam.

Families should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Flam. 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 Flam. 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 Flam 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 Flam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dusseldorf 2-3 
    Flam 1-2

One day in Dusseldorf or Flam?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Dusseldorf. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Flam might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Flam, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Dusseldorf or Flam?

Dusseldorf is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though Flam is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this village.


Five days in Dusseldorf or Flam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Dusseldorf. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Flam, a popular village, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Flam?

The cultural city of Dusseldorf offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Flam 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 Adventure Tours to Norway, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Flam 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 Flam is €104. 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 Flam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Flam 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Flam 108
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Flam

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf or Flam? 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 Flam


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
    Flam 16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Dusseldorf or Flam?

Prices for flights to both Flam 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
    Flam 33
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
    Flam 16

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

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

  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • Best Intro Tour of Dusseldorf with a Local: $141
  • City game scavenger hunt Düsseldorf - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Segway Rhein Tour: Rhine River Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Dusseldorf : Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Flam 3.44
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 Flam, we can see that Dusseldorf is more expensive. And not only is Flam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Flam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Flam 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 Flam.

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


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Flam?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 1200 times larger than the population of Flam. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf and Flam, 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 Flam?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Flam in the Summer?

Both Flam and Dusseldorf during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Flam this time of year.

Dusseldorf is a little warmer than Flam in the summer. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Flam fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in July than Flam. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Flam receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Flam 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Flam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Flam. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Flam for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Flam receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Flam. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Flam receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Flam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Flam. Many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Flam in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Flam can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Dusseldorf. In January, Dusseldorf is generally much warmer than Flam. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 3°C (37°F), and Flam fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

It's quite rainy in Flam. Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in January than Flam. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Flam receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Flam 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Flam in the Spring?

Both Flam and Dusseldorf are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Flam for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Dusseldorf is a little warmer than Flam in the spring. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Flam fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. In April, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Flam. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Flam receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F) 
    Flam 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Flam and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Flam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in)