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

Should you visit Hannover or Lofoten Islands?

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 Hannover and Lofoten Islands. 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.

Hannover

Hannover is a vibrant, cultural, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a quaint, spectacular, and dramatic archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Hannover and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
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 Hannover or Lofoten Islands?

Both Lofoten Islands and Hannover have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Hannover is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Lofoten Islands attracts visitors for its food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hannover is famous for its many parks and gardens as well as its accessibility to the German train system. Lofoten Islands is famous for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses.

How is Hannover different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Hannover or Lofoten Islands.

Hannover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll see many of the city's sights along the Red Thread Trail in the city center. Make sure you check out the New Town Hall, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, and the Lower Saxony State Museum as well.

Lofoten Islands offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Hannover or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Lofoten Islands. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Hannover. You'll find classic tearooms, food halls, fine dining restaurants, and markets. Try all of the classic German sausages or sample international dishes in this dynamic city.

Is Hannover or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

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

Hannover offers plenty to do in the evening. There are many students who keep the nightlife scene active. From beer halls to jazz venues, you'll find a diversity of options around town.

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 Hannover or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for its beaches. However, Hannover is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Lofoten Islands for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Hannover is not a beach destination.


Is Hannover or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for its historic old town. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lofoten Islands. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Many people head to Hannover to see the old town. Check out the half-timbered buildings, the old churches, and the charming streets around old town.

Is Hannover or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is very popular for hiking. However, Hannover is not a hiking destination.

Lofoten Islands is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Hannover is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hannover or Lofoten Islands?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

If you're looking to go shopping, Hannover and Lofoten Islands both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hannover. Head to the 14th-century Market Church (Marktkirche) and wander around the nearby streets for some of the city's best shopping. Also make sure you check out the city flea market. In addition to boutiques and independent shops, there are also major department stores and large shopping malls in the area.

Lofoten Islands offers some nice shopping areas. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.


Is Hannover or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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

Hannover is a family-friendly place to visit. Like many German cities, there are a number of activities geared specifically to kids. Check out the Sea Life Center or the Hannover Zoo. If you're willing to get out of town a bit, there's also Serengeti Park Hodenhagen or Rasti-Land theme park, which has rides and games.

Is Hannover or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is very popular for romance. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Lofoten Islands is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Hannover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic settings around town include Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten, and Maschpark.

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

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

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

Lofoten Islands is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Hannover. Some people use the city to split up longer train trips. There are a couple of hostels in town if you decide to stay a night or two.


Is Hannover or Lofoten Islands Better for Students?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

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

Hannover is very popular with students. There are a few great universities in town including Leibniz University, which attract international students. There's also a nice nightlife and easy accessibility to the rest of Germany.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

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

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

Hannover 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 Hannover can get you to some places easily. The city has 12 city trains and 38 bus lines.

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

Is Hannover or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Hannover
Lofoten Islands

Hannover is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its ease of walking around.

Hannover is a very walkable city. There are some nice walkable parts to the city.

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 Hannover Worth Visiting? and Is Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Hannover?

How long in Hannover or Lofoten Islands?

Both Hannover 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 Hannover. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hannover, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Hannover or Lofoten Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hannover 1-2 
    Lofoten Islands 4-7

One day in Hannover or Lofoten Islands?

The dynamic destination of Hannover offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The beautiful archipelago of Lofoten Islands offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Hannover or Lofoten Islands?

The city of Hannover offers food and shopping. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Hannover or Lofoten Islands?

Hannover is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Lofoten Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lofoten Islands, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Hannover or Lofoten Islands?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hannover. 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.

Lofoten Islands is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lofoten Islands has to offer. This archipelago offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany, The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.


Which place is cheaper, Lofoten Islands or Hannover?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hannover is €155, 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 Hannover and Lofoten Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hannover 85
    Lofoten Islands 6.67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hannover 170
    Lofoten Islands 13
Compare Hotels in Hannover and Lofoten Islands

Looking for a hotel in Hannover 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 Hannover


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: Hannover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hannover 23
    Lofoten Islands 9.86

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hannover

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

  • Private Transfer From Hanover City to Bremen City: $94
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $212
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg With Sightseeing Stops: $271
  • Private Direct Transfer From Wolfsburg to Hamburg; English Speaking Driver: $289

Is it cheaper to fly into Hannover or Lofoten Islands?

Prices for flights to both Lofoten Islands and Hannover 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
    Hannover 49
    Lofoten Islands 32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hannover 35
    Lofoten Islands 23

Tours and Activities in Hannover

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

  • Guided tour of the New Town Hall in Hanover: $11
  • Guided tour of the Royal Herrenhausen Gardens: $13
  • On the trail of crime - Hannover's Crime Tour: $19
  • Hanover: SEA LIFE Entry Ticket: $20
  • SEA LIFE Hannover Ticket: $21
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Hanover in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Fritz Haarmann murder tour through Hanover's old town: $33
  • Hanno(ver)nascht Culinary city tour: $40
  • Culinary bike tour: $41
  • Hanover: Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $120
  • Virtual reality experience in Langenhagen: $131
  • Personal Travel & Vacation Photography Walking Tour in Hannover: $186

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
    Hannover 34
    Lofoten Islands 0.67


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