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

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a diverse, international, and professional city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. 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.

Geneva and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Geneva or Oslo?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Geneva than Oslo. While Oslo is larger than Geneva, Geneva has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Oslo is more touristy than Geneva and is known for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. Geneva is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also home to The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Geneva different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Geneva or Oslo?

Geneva
Oslo

Both Geneva and Oslo have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

Oslo offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.


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

Geneva
Oslo

Geneva 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, Geneva makes for a great culinary experience. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

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 Geneva or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Geneva
Oslo

It's hard to distinguish whether Geneva or Oslo has a better nightlife scene.

Geneva has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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 Geneva or Oslo Better for its Old Town?

Geneva
Oslo

Geneva is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Geneva to see the historical old town. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or Oslo?

Geneva
Oslo

Geneva is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

Geneva is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva or Oslo Better for Families?

Geneva
Oslo

Oslo is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva 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.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Geneva or Oslo Better for Couples?

Geneva
Oslo

Geneva and Oslo both good destinations for a couple.

Geneva is a nice destination for couples. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

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 Geneva or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Geneva
Oslo

Oslo is a good destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Oslo Better for Students?

Geneva
Oslo

Geneva and Oslo are great places to visit for students.

Many students visit Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Oslo is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

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

Geneva
Oslo

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

Visitors in Geneva can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

Oslo has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.


Is Geneva or Oslo a more walkable city?

Geneva
Oslo

Geneva and Oslo both are great when exploring on foot.

Geneva is very walkable. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored 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 Geneva Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Oslo?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oslo than Geneva 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 Oslo.


  • How many days in Geneva or Oslo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Geneva 1-3 
    Oslo 1-5

One day in Geneva or Oslo?

Geneva is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the big city destination of Oslo. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Geneva or Oslo?

Geneva is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

Oslo 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 Geneva or Oslo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the international big city of Geneva. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oslo. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Geneva or Oslo?

The international city of Geneva offers nightlife and food. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the green big city of Oslo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Oslo or Geneva?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Geneva is $213, while the average daily cost in Oslo is $138. 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 Geneva and Oslo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Geneva $147
    Oslo $82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Geneva $294
    Oslo $164
Compare Hotels in Geneva and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Geneva 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 Geneva


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: Geneva Hotel Prices and Oslo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Geneva $9.55
    Oslo $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Geneva Int Airport (GVA) to La Clusaz - Arrival Private Transfer: $50
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Lausanne - Arrival Private Transfer: $54
  • Geneva to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Geneva Airport: $72
  • VIP Transfer: $73
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Verbier - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Geneva Airport GVA to Val d'Isere Espace Killy Arrival Transfer: $77
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Geneva Hotels : $87
  • Geneva Airport Transfers : Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA in Business Car: $88
  • Geneva Departure Private Transfers from Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA: $88
  • Geneva Arrival Private Transfers from Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva City: $88
  • Geneva Airport Transfers : Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva City in Business Car: $88

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo

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


  • Tram Ticket
    $6.69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Airport & City Transfers in Trondheim: $132
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL by Luxury Van: $156
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo to Oslo Airport OSL by Business Car: $115
  • Olso: Private Transfer from the City Center to Oslo Airport: $109
  • Oslo Airport (OSL) to Oslo Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $181
  • Oslo Airport (OSL): Private Transfer to Oslo Cruise Port: $493
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Car: $150
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Van: $232
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Car: $148
  • Oslo City Center to Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
  • Oslo Cruise Port to Oslo Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $91
  • Oslo Cruise Port to Oslo hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Geneva or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo and Geneva 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
    Geneva $53
    Oslo $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

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

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $148

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: $60
  • Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $76
  • Christmas Street Food Tour with Akevitt and Christmas beer : $116
  • 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $120
  • Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Geneva $30
    Oslo $19

Tours and Activities in Geneva

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

  • From Brunswick Monument to the Botanical Garden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Geneva (International District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Best of Geneva City tour with Panoramic Bus: $17
  • Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva: $22
  • (STTG03)Geneva International Quarter & Lakeside Sightseeing Tour: $30
  • (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif: $33
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Bike Guided Tour in Geneva: $34
  • The Highlights Tour in a TaxiBike: Geneva : $61
  • Geneva Highlights 2-Hour Introductory Tour: $66
  • Geneva : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $83
  • Annecy - Venice of the Alps - Tour from Geneva: $85
  • Chamonix Self-guided Sightseeing Tour from Geneva: $90

Tours and Activities in Oslo

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

  • Free City Walking Tour: $0.93
  • Explore Oslo with Passionate Tour Guides: $3.26
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Oslo Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Digging up the Past in Røros: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Downtown Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • An Oslo Waterfront Stroll: Self-paced Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Oslo Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.14
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Oslo Self-Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $14
  • The Rose Castle Entry Ticket: $17
  • Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Geneva $23
    Oslo $11


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


Which is Bigger, Geneva or Oslo?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Geneva. When comparing the sizes of Geneva 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 Geneva 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 Geneva or Oslo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Oslo. Many visitors come to Geneva 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.

Geneva is a little warmer than Oslo in the summer. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 22°C (71°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. In Geneva, it's very sunny this time of the year. Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during summer. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Geneva usually receives less rain than Oslo. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Geneva 22°C (71°F) 
    Oslo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Oslo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Geneva as well as Oslo. Most visitors come to Geneva for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area 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, Geneva is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Geneva in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Oslo averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Geneva often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets less rain in October than Oslo. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Geneva 14°C (56°F) 
    Oslo 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Geneva 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 Geneva can be very cold. In January, Geneva is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 4°C (39°F), and Oslo fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during winter. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Geneva usually receives more rain than Oslo. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Geneva 4°C (39°F) 
    Oslo -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Oslo in the Spring?

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

Geneva is much warmer than Oslo in the spring. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Geneva often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in April than Oslo. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Geneva 11°C (53°F) 
    Oslo 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Geneva

Geneva Oslo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)