A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Helsinki vs. Lucerne for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Helsinki or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne 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 coastal, environmentally conscious, and waterfront city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a historic, vibrant, and scenic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Helsinki and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Lucerne?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lucerne than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lucerne is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Helsinki is known for its impressive beauty. Lucerne is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also home to The Chapel Bridge. Helsinki is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Helsinki different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Lucerne.

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Is the Food Better in Helsinki or Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Helsinki and Lucerne both to be good destinations.

Helsinki has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Lucerne area. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Helsinki or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Lucerne has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Helsinki or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

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

Lucerne is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Lucerne?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Helsinki and Lucerne.

Helsinki is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Is Helsinki or Lucerne Better for Families?

Helsinki is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Helsinki. 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Helsinki or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Both Helsinki and Lucerne are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Lucerne frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Is Helsinki or Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Helsinki or Lucerne Better for Students?

Helsinki is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

Many students visit Helsinki. 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Helsinki. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Helsinki or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Helsinki and Lucerne are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable city. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

For even more information, also check out Is Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Lucerne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Helsinki and Lucerne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Helsinki than in Lucerne. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lucerne.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Helsinki than Lucerne 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 Helsinki.

One day in Helsinki or Lucerne?

In Helsinki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful city of Lucerne offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Lucerne?

In Helsinki, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Helsinki has to offer.

Lucerne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lucerne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Lucerne?

Helsinki is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Lucerne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Lucerne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Helsinki. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Lucerne is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Lucerne?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Lucerne, 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 Helsinki or Lucerne?

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 Helsinki or Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Lucerne. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Helsinki is cooler than Lucerne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Helsinki in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Lucerne averages at about 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lucerne this time of the year. In Helsinki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Lucerne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Lucerne. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Helsinki is generally much colder than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 6°C (42°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Lucerne. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Lucerne. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lucerne can be very cold during winter. Helsinki can get quite cold in the winter. Helsinki is much colder than Lucerne in the winter. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around -6°C (21°F) in January, and Lucerne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Lucerne during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Lucerne in the Spring?

Both Lucerne and Helsinki during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Helsinki can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Helsinki is much colder than Lucerne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Helsinki in April average around 3°C (37°F), and Lucerne averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Helsinki often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in April than Lucerne. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Helsinki