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

Should you visit Helsinki or Lofoten Islands?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Lofoten Islands can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a waterfront, active, and nature-focused city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a pristine, charming, and quaint archipelago. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Helsinki and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Lofoten Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lofoten Islands than Helsinki, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lofoten Islands is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, and hiking, while Helsinki is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Helsinki is well known for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. 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 Helsinki different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Helsinki 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 Helsinki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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 Helsinki or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lofoten Islands is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Lofoten Islands has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Helsinki is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Helsinki. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

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 Helsinki or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Lofoten Islands is a very popular place for the beache. However, Helsinki is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Lofoten Islands attract visitors from all over. 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.

Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Is Helsinki or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Lofoten Islands is a very popular place for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Lofoten Islands is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is Helsinki or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Lofoten Islands is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Around Lofoten Islands visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Lofoten Islands?

Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

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

Is Helsinki or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Both Helsinki and Lofoten Islands are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Helsinki is very family-friendly. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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 Helsinki or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Lofoten Islands is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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

Lofoten Islands is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Lofoten Islands Better for Students?

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

Helsinki is very popular with students. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

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

Helsinki 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 Helsinki can get you to some places easily. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

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

Is Helsinki or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

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

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable place. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Lofoten Islands?

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

Families should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Helsinki. 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 Helsinki. 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 Helsinki 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.

One day in Helsinki or Lofoten Islands?

The waterfront destination of Helsinki offers nightlife and food. 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.

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 Helsinki or Lofoten Islands?

The city of Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Lofoten Islands?

Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Lofoten Islands?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Helsinki. 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 The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.

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