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

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Oslo?

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 Oslo. 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.

Oslo

Oslo is a clean, progressive, and park-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Dusseldorf and Oslo: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Oslo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dusseldorf. Although Dusseldorf and Oslo are about the same size, Dusseldorf has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dusseldorf is more popular for its food, historical sights, and shopping, while Oslo is known for its museums and big city activities. Oslo is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is known for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. 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 Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dusseldorf
Oslo

Oslo is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Oslo. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Dusseldorf
Oslo

Dusseldorf is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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).

Oslo has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.

Is Dusseldorf or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Oslo

It's hard to distinguish whether Dusseldorf or Oslo 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 Oslo has a few options to choose from. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.

Is Dusseldorf or Oslo Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Oslo

Dusseldorf is notable for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Dusseldorf to see the historical old town. 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.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Oslo?

Dusseldorf
Oslo

Dusseldorf is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Dusseldorf or Oslo Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Oslo

Oslo is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Oslo is very family-friendly. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Dusseldorf is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Dusseldorf or Oslo Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Oslo

Dusseldorf is notable for romance. Also, Oslo 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.

Oslo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.


Is Dusseldorf or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Oslo

Dusseldorf and Oslo 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 Oslo. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.

Is Dusseldorf or Oslo Better for Students?

Dusseldorf
Oslo

Oslo is a great destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Many students visit Oslo. The University of Oslo has an excellent reputation and welcomes many foreign students every year. The school does a lot to make sure international students feel at home here.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Dusseldorf
Oslo

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dusseldorf and Oslo.

Dusseldorf has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Oslo can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.


Is Dusseldorf or Oslo a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Oslo

Dusseldorf and Oslo both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Oslo is a very walkable city. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Oslo?

In either Dusseldorf or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than Dusseldorf because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Dusseldorf, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Oslo. 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 Oslo 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 Oslo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dusseldorf 2-3 
    Oslo 1-5

One day in Dusseldorf or Oslo?

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.

When visiting Oslo, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oslo, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Dusseldorf or Oslo?

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.

When visiting Oslo, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 Oslo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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.

Oslo, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Dusseldorf or Oslo?

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.

Oslo 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Oslo 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 Oslo is €127. 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 Oslo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Oslo 76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Oslo 152
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf or Oslo? 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 Oslo


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 and Oslo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Oslo 22

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:


  • Tram Ticket
    6.17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Airport & City Transfers in Trondheim: $131
  • Arrival Private Transfer Oslo OSL Airport to Oslo by Business Car: $115
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL by Luxury Van: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo to Oslo Airport OSL by Business Car: $114
  • Olso: Private Transfer from the City Center to Oslo Airport: $106
  • Oslo Airport (OSL): Private Transfer to Oslo Cruise Port: $486
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Car: $148
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Van: $229
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Car: $147
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Van: $238
  • Oslo Cruise Port to Oslo Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Oslo Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Oslo hotels: $129

Is it cheaper to fly into Dusseldorf or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo 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
    Oslo 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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oslo

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

  • Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner: $58
  • Oslofjord Dinner Cruise on a sailing ship : $61
  • Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $74
  • Christmas Street Food Tour with Akevitt and Christmas beer : $112
  • 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $117
  • Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $121

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dusseldorf 25
    Oslo 18

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 Oslo

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

  • Explore Oslo with Passionate Tour Guides: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Walking Tour in Oslo in English: $4.41
  • Tour a Pie en Oslo en Español: $4.41
  • Digging up the Past in Røros: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Akershus to Kongen Marina Waterfront: $7.99
  • An Oslo Waterfront Stroll: Self-paced Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Downtown Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Oslo Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
  • Discover Oslo's Heart: Audio Tour Through Time and Beauty: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Fram Museum Admission Ticket: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Oslo 10
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 Oslo, we can see that Dusseldorf is more expensive. And not only is Oslo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Oslo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Oslo 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 Oslo.

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


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Oslo?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Oslo. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf and Oslo, 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 Oslo?

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 Oslo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Oslo. Many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Oslo in the summer. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Oslo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oslo this time of the year. Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Oslo during summer. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Oslo. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Oslo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Oslo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Oslo. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Oslo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Dusseldorf is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dusseldorf in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Oslo averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Dusseldorf often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in October than Oslo. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F) 
    Oslo 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Dusseldorf are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

It's quite cold in Oslo in the winter. The weather in Dusseldorf can be very cold. In January, Dusseldorf is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 3°C (37°F), and Oslo fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during winter. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dusseldorf usually receives more rain than Oslo. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Oslo -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Oslo in the Spring?

Both Oslo and Dusseldorf during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oslo for the activities around the city.

Dusseldorf is much warmer than Oslo in the spring. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Oslo. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in April than Oslo. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F) 
    Oslo 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Oslo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)