A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Graz vs. Tromso for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Graz or Tromso?

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

Should I visit Graz or Tromso? 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 medieval, cultural, and historical city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a remote, one-of-a-kind, and spectacular town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Graz and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Graz or Tromso?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Graz than Tromso, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Graz is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Tromso is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Graz is popular for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. It is also home to The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower. Tromso is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

How is Graz different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Graz
Tromso

Graz is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Graz. 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.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.


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

Graz
Tromso

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Graz and Tromso.

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 Tromso is an experience not to be missed. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

Is Graz or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Tromso

Graz is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Graz has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Graz or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Tromso

Graz is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Graz offers plenty to see. 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.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.


Is Graz or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Graz
Tromso

Tromso is great for hiking. However, Graz is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Tromso for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Graz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Tromso?

Graz
Tromso

Graz is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Graz. 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Graz or Tromso Better for Families?

Graz
Tromso

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Graz or Tromso.

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.

Tromso is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.


Is Graz or Tromso Better for Couples?

Graz
Tromso

With fun activities for couples, both Graz and Tromso make for a excellent place to visit.

Graz is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Tromso is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

Is Graz or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Tromso

For backpackers, both Graz and Tromso are good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Graz. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Tromso is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Graz or Tromso Better for Students?

Graz
Tromso

Graz is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Graz. 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.

Tromso is a good city to visit for students. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.


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

Graz
Tromso

Graz is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Graz. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Graz or Tromso a more walkable city?

Graz
Tromso

Graz is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Graz is a very easy city to get around 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.

Tromso is very walkable. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Graz?

How long in Graz or Tromso?

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

Families should spend more time in Graz than Tromso. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Graz than Tromso 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 Tromso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Graz 2-3 
    Tromso 4-7

One day in Graz or Tromso?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Graz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. 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 Tromso?

Graz 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.

Tromso is a fun place to experience. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Tromso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Graz. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This town 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 Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the medieval destination of Graz. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Even though Tromso is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Tromso 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 Tromso 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 Graz and Tromso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Tromso 52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Tromso 104
Compare Hotels in Graz and Tromso

Looking for a hotel in Graz or Tromso? 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 Tromso


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 and Tromso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Tromso 27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tromso

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

  • Highway to Heaven - Aurora Cable Car Transfer in Tromsø: $93
  • Private Airport and City Transfer in Tromso: $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Graz or Tromso?

Prices for flights to both Tromso 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
    Tromso 36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

For Tromso, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3 Hours Private Walking Food Tour in Norway: $167
  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $173
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $186
  • Fjord Cruise Expedition with Dinner,Tromso: $206
  • Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner: $250
  • Aurora Borealis Cruise with Dinner in Tromso: $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Graz 13
    Tromso 16

Tours and Activities in Graz

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

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

Tours and Activities in Tromso

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

  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $74
  • Arctic Fjordcruise & Safari in Tromso with Luxury Catamaran : $135
  • Arctic Landscapes Hiking Tour - Sightseeing & Snowshoeing, Tromsø: $164
  • Arctic Nature Photography Sightseeing Tour from Tromso: $131
  • Arctic Nature Tour from Tromsø by minibus: $131
  • Arctic Wildlife and Fjord Sightseeing: $206
  • Aurora Adventure Tour with Creative Vacations: $224
  • Aurora Cuisine Cruise: $158
  • Aurora Hunt Tour with Citizen Science from Tromso - Professional Photos Included: $243
  • Brews and Views City Walking Tour in Tromsø with Beer Tasting: $167
  • Discovery tour of the island of Senja and Kvaløya from Tromsø: $262
  • Exclusive Reindeers Experience in small groups, Tromso: $131

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Graz 16
    Tromso 7.84


When comparing the travel costs between Graz and Tromso, we can see that Graz is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Graz or Tromso?

Graz has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Graz and Tromso, 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 Graz or Tromso?

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 Graz or Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Graz in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Tromso for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Graz is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the summer temperatures in Graz in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Tromso averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Tromso. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Graz. Graz usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Graz. In July, Graz usually receives more rain than Tromso. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Tromso 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Graz or Tromso in the Autumn?

Both Tromso and Graz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Graz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Tromso because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. In October, Graz is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 13°C (55°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the autumn, Graz often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun.

Tromso gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Graz usually gets less rain in October than Tromso. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Tromso 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Graz or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Tromso. The winter months attract visitors to Graz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the winter. The weather in Graz can be very cold. Graz is much warmer than Tromso in the winter. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Tromso fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Graz usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during winter. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Graz usually receives less rain than Tromso. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Graz 1°C (34°F) 
    Tromso -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Graz or Tromso in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Graz as well as Tromso. The natural beauty are the main draw to Graz this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Tromso for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. In the spring, Graz is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the spring temperatures in Graz in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Tromso averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the spring, Graz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets less rain in April than Tromso. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Tromso 1°C (33°F)

Typical Weather for Tromso and Graz

Graz Tromso
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) -4°C (25°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) -4°C (25°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) -2°C (28°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 1°C (33°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) -1°C (31°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) -3°C (27°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)