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

Should you visit Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a lively, charming, and scenic town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Oslo

Oslo is a progressive, park-filled, and green city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Oslo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Oslo than Heidelberg. Oslo is bigger than Heidelberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Oslo is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Heidelberg is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is well known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Oslo is well known for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. Also, Oslo is famous for The Royal Palace.

How is Heidelberg different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Oslo. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Heidelberg 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, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Heidelberg or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Heidelberg has plenty to do after the sun goes down. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Oslo. 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 Heidelberg or Oslo Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Heidelberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Oslo?

Heidelberg is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. 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.

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 Heidelberg or Oslo Better for Families?

Oslo is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Heidelberg or Oslo Better for Couples?

Heidelberg is notable for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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 Heidelberg or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg is notable for backpackers. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Oslo is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Heidelberg or Oslo Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Oslo. 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.

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. 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.

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

Oslo is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Oslo is top-notch. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Heidelberg. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Is Heidelberg or Oslo a more walkable city?

Heidelberg and Oslo are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Oslo is very walkable. 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 Heidelberg Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Oslo?

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

Families should spend more time in Oslo than Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg than Oslo. 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 Oslo 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.

One day in Heidelberg or Oslo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

When visiting Oslo, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oslo, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Oslo?

Heidelberg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

When visiting Oslo, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Heidelberg or Oslo?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Heidelberg. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Oslo, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Oslo?

The character-filled town of Heidelberg offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Oslo 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

When comparing the travel costs between Heidelberg and Oslo, we can see that Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive? and Is Oslo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Oslo?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Oslo in the Summer?

Both Oslo and Heidelberg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Heidelberg is a little warmer than Oslo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heidelberg in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Oslo averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Oslo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heidelberg. In the summer, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Oslo. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Heidelberg or Oslo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Oslo. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Oslo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Heidelberg is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 12°C (54°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Heidelberg usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during autumn. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Oslo. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Oslo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Oslo. The winter months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, 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 Heidelberg can be very cold. Heidelberg is much warmer than Oslo in the winter. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Oslo fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Heidelberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Oslo. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Oslo in the Spring?

Both Oslo and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oslo for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Heidelberg is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heidelberg in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Oslo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Oslo during spring. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heidelberg usually receives more rain than Oslo. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oslo and Heidelberg