A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Graz vs. Lofoten Islands for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Graz or Lofoten Islands?

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

Should I visit Graz or Lofoten Islands? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Graz

Graz is a cultural, historical, and beautiful city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a pristine, charming, and quaint archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Graz and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Graz or Lofoten Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lofoten Islands than Graz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lofoten Islands is better known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Graz is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Graz is more touristy than Lofoten Islands and is popular for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. Lofoten Islands is well known for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. Also, Lofoten Islands is famous for The Svolvær Goat Trail.

How is Graz different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Graz or Lofoten Islands?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Graz is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Graz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lofoten Islands. The charming towns often have local museums that highlight the region's history and culture. The Lofoten War Memorial Museum is in the town of Svolvaer. The Lofotr Viking Museum is on the island of Vestvågøy and the Lofoten Museum is in Kabelvåg.


Is the Food Better in Graz or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Graz and Lofoten Islands.

Graz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Dining out in Lofoten Islands is an experience not to be missed. Fish and lamb are both common at most restaurants in the area. The food is fresh, delicious, and filling, and although it's expensive, it's also high quality and uniquely local.

Is Graz or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Graz is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its evening party scene.

Graz offers plenty to do in the evening. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Lofoten Islands. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Is Graz or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is great for the beache. However, Graz is not a beach destination.

Lofoten Islands is considered a top beach destination. Most people don't think of the Arctic when they think about beaches, but these islands have long sandy beaches that meet blue waters. They're tucked in between valleys and mountains and offer a surreal Arctic landscape.

Graz is not a beach destination.


Is Graz or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Graz is very popular for its old town. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its historic old town charm.

Graz has a world-famous historical area. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Many visitors go to Lofoten Islands to see the historical old town. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Is Graz or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is renowned for hiking. However, Graz is not a hiking destination.

People visit Lofoten Islands specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. It's remote setting and dramatic scenery lead to some truly breathtaking hikes. You'll find trails that pass by beautiful beaches, climb spectacular peaks, and wander through the beautiful countryside. Reinebringen, Horseid Beach, and Bunes Beach are among the favorite hikes in the area.

Graz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Lofoten Islands?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Graz is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its shopping areas.

Graz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Lofoten Islands has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.


Is Graz or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Graz or Lofoten Islands.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

Lofoten Islands is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids will enjoy.

Is Graz or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Lofoten Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning views, dramatic fjords, and world class outdoor adventures make this an amazing romantic destination for couples. If you enjoy the outdoors and adventure activities, then there is no shortage of opportunities to explore here.

Graz is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Is Graz or Lofoten Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Lofoten Islands. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.


Is Graz or Lofoten Islands Better for Students?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Graz is a well-known place for students. However, Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Graz is very popular with students. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Is Graz or Lofoten Islands Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Graz is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Graz can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lofoten Islands. There are buses and ferries, but the service is limited, although reliable.

Is Graz or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Graz
Lofoten Islands

Graz is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Graz on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

Lofoten Islands is not a very walkable city. Although the area is filled with hikes, you really must have a car if you hope to explore it with flexibility and accessibility.


For even more information, also check out Is Graz Worth Visiting? and Is Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Graz?

How long in Graz or Lofoten Islands?

Both Graz and Lofoten Islands have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lofoten Islands than in Graz. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Graz than Lofoten Islands 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 Graz.


  • How many days in Graz or Lofoten Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Graz 2-3 
    Lofoten Islands 4-7

One day in Graz or Lofoten Islands?

The beautiful destination of Graz offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Lofoten Islands. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Graz or Lofoten Islands?

The city of Graz offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Lofoten Islands is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Graz or Lofoten Islands?

Graz is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dramatic destination of Lofoten Islands. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.


A week in Graz or Lofoten Islands?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Graz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the charming archipelago of Lofoten Islands. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.


Which place is cheaper, Lofoten Islands or Graz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Graz is €112, while the average daily cost in Lofoten Islands is €50. 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 Graz and Lofoten Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Lofoten Islands 6.67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Lofoten Islands 13
Compare Hotels in Graz and Lofoten Islands

Looking for a hotel in Graz or Lofoten Islands? 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 Graz


Hotels in Lofoten Islands


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: Graz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Lofoten Islands 9.86

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

Also for Graz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58
  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207

Is it cheaper to fly into Graz or Lofoten Islands?

Prices for flights to both Lofoten Islands and Graz 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
    Graz 32
    Lofoten Islands 32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Graz 13
    Lofoten Islands 23

Tours and Activities in Graz

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Graz.

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Kunsthaus Graz Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Graz city tours: $14
  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Guided Tour: Courtyards of Graz: $138
  • Tour with Private Guide: $176
  • Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $191

Tours and Activities in Lofoten Islands

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

  • From Leknes port: Special Summer Guided Tour of Lofoten : $125
  • Sea Kayak Guided Tours on Skrova Island: $115
  • Small-Group Cultural Walking Tour of Skrova: $33
  • Winter Half Day Kayak Tour: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Graz 16
    Lofoten Islands 0.67


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

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