A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heidelberg vs. Gjovik for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Heidelberg or Gjovik?

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 Heidelberg and Gjovik. 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a scenic, character-filled, and historic town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Gjovik

Gjovik is a relaxed, accessible, and friendly town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg and Gjovik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Gjovik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heidelberg. Although Heidelberg and Gjovik are popular destinations, Heidelberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heidelberg is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Gjovik attracts visitors for its museums. Heidelberg is more touristy than Gjovik and is known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. It is also well known for The Heidelberg Castle. Gjovik is famous for its beautiful surrounding countryside and nice landscape.

How is Heidelberg different from Gjovik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Heidelberg or Gjovik?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

Gjovik is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Gjovik. There are a handful of sights and attractions near town such as the Gjøvik Olympic Cavern Hall and the Royal Palace.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Heidelberg or Gjovik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Heidelberg and Gjovik can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Heidelberg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Gjovik makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many local restaurants that range from fine dining opportunities to local cafes. Dishes usually include local ingredients that are fresh and high quality.

Is Heidelberg or Gjovik Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Heidelberg has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Gjovik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find some bars and pubs around town as well as a couple of nightclubs.

Is Heidelberg or Gjovik Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

Heidelberg is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Gjovik does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Heidelberg is revered around the world. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Gjovik does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Gjovik?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

If you're looking to go shopping, Heidelberg and Gjovik both offer plenty of nice spots.

Heidelberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Gjovik is a great destination for shopping. The town center has some nice retail shops with clothing and other interesting items.

Is Heidelberg or Gjovik Better for Families?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

Both Heidelberg and Gjovik are nice family-friendly destinations.

Heidelberg offers lots of family activities. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Gjovik is a family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a combination of museums and outdoor adventure activities. There are climbing parks, Olympic centers, and art galleries that the whole family can enjoy.

Is Heidelberg or Gjovik Better for Couples?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Heidelberg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Gjovik is a nice destination for couples. You'll find romantic hotels and many great museums or outdoor parks that couples will appreciate.


Is Heidelberg or Gjovik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

It's common for backpackers to visit Gjovik. There's at least one hostel around town, and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Heidelberg or Gjovik Better for Students?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

For students, both Heidelberg and Gjovik are nice places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Gjovik is a good town to visit for students. The location offers access to much of what Norway has to offer, making it a nice place to base yourself while you're studying.

Is Heidelberg or Gjovik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Heidelberg offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

You'll find some public transit in Gjovik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel through town.


Is Heidelberg or Gjovik a more walkable city?

Heidelberg
Gjovik

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

Gjovik is somewhat walkable. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas as well as walking paths just outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting? and Is Gjovik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gjovik or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Gjovik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heidelberg and Gjovik. In our opinion, Heidelberg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Heidelberg than Gjovik. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heidelberg than Gjovik 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 Heidelberg.


  • How many days in Heidelberg or Gjovik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Heidelberg 1-3 
    Gjovik 1-3

One day in Heidelberg or Gjovik?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Heidelberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

With museums and nightlife around the friendly town of Gjovik, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Gjovik, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Gjovik?

Heidelberg 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Gjovik, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Heidelberg or Gjovik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heidelberg. 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.

Gjovik, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Gjovik?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Heidelberg. This town 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.

Gjovik 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Norway, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Gjovik or Heidelberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Heidelberg is €142, while the average daily cost in Gjovik is €70. 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 Heidelberg and Gjovik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heidelberg 93
    Gjovik 44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heidelberg 186
    Gjovik 88
Compare Hotels in Heidelberg and Gjovik

Looking for a hotel in Heidelberg or Gjovik? 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 Heidelberg


Hotels in Gjovik


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heidelberg 17
    Gjovik 5.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Heidelberg or Gjovik?

Prices for flights to both Gjovik and Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37
    Gjovik 22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heidelberg 11
    Gjovik 6.15

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • 2 1/2h Guided Bicycle Tour Discover Heidelberg: $46
  • Alternative Heidelberg Tour.: $71
  • Amazing Schwetzingen Garden Tour: $238
  • Beer and Old Town Tour: $98
  • Bicycle Tour from Heidelberg to quaint Ladenburg.: $120
  • Culinary city tour in Heidelberg with delicious samples: $43
  • E.Bike Tours around Heidelberg: $153
  • Evening Heidelberg tour with historical night watchman: $17
  • Experience the Local Food around Mannheim: $64
  • Fascinating Heidelberg Sightseeing Walking Tour: $217
  • Food & Fables Tour of Heidelberg : $131
  • Guided Tour of Student Rabble, Whore Pack and the French War: $373

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heidelberg 17
    Gjovik 5.53

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Heidelberg:

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295


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

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


Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Gjovik?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Gjovik. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg and Gjovik, 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 Heidelberg or Gjovik?

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 Heidelberg or Gjovik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Gjovik. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Gjovik in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Heidelberg is a little warmer than Gjovik in the summer. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Gjovik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gjovik this time of the year. In Heidelberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Gjovik during summer. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Gjovik receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Gjovik. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F) 
    Gjovik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Gjovik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Gjovik. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Gjovik for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Heidelberg is much warmer than Gjovik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heidelberg in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Gjovik averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Heidelberg often gets more sunshine than Gjovik. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gjovik receives 86 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in October than Gjovik. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F) 
    Gjovik 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Gjovik in the Winter?

Both Gjovik and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Gjovik because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Gjovik can be very cold. Heidelberg can be very cold during winter. In January, Heidelberg is generally much warmer than Gjovik. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 3°C (37°F), and Gjovik fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Heidelberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gjovik during winter. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Gjovik receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heidelberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gjovik. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F) 
    Gjovik -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Gjovik in the Spring?

Both Gjovik and Heidelberg during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the natural beauty.

Heidelberg is much warmer than Gjovik in the spring. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Gjovik fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

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

Heidelberg usually gets more rain in April than Gjovik. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F) 
    Gjovik 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Gjovik and Heidelberg

Heidelberg Gjovik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)