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

Should you visit Interlaken or Oslo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Oslo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class, stunning, and adventurous town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking.

Oslo

Oslo is a green, clean, and progressive city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.

Interlaken and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Oslo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oslo. Although Interlaken and Oslo are both popular with visitors, Oslo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oslo is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Interlaken is known for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Oslo and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Oslo is popular for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. It is also home to The Royal Palace.

How is Interlaken different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Oslo Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Oslo

Interlaken is a nice place to visit for snow skiing. However, Oslo is not a skiing destination.

Interlaken is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Oslo is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Interlaken or Oslo?

Interlaken
Oslo

Oslo is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Oslo specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken
Oslo

Interlaken 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, Interlaken makes for a great culinary experience. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

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 Interlaken or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Oslo

Oslo is very good for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Interlaken or Oslo Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Oslo

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Oslo is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Interlaken draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Oslo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Oslo?

Interlaken
Oslo

Oslo is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Oslo is a good destination for shopping. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Oslo Better for Families?

Interlaken
Oslo

You'll find terrific kid-friendly activities in either Interlaken or Oslo.

Interlaken is one of the most popular family destinations. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

Oslo is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.


Is Interlaken or Oslo Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Oslo

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Interlaken has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

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 Interlaken or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Oslo

Interlaken and Oslo are both good destinations for backpackers.

Interlaken is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

It's common for backpackers to visit Oslo. 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 Interlaken or Oslo Better for Students?

Interlaken
Oslo

Oslo is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Oslo is very popular with students. 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.

Interlaken is not popular with students.


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

Interlaken
Oslo

Oslo is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Oslo can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Is Interlaken or Oslo a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Oslo

Oslo is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Oslo is very walkable. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Interlaken Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Oslo?

In either Interlaken or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Oslo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Oslo than Interlaken. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Interlaken, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oslo than Interlaken 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 Oslo.


  • How many days in Interlaken or Oslo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Interlaken 2-5 
    Oslo 1-5

One day in Interlaken or Oslo?

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Interlaken. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Interlaken or Oslo?

Interlaken is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Interlaken or Oslo?

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the adrenaline-filled destination of Interlaken. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Interlaken or Oslo?

The breathtaking town of Interlaken offers skiing and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Oslo or Interlaken?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Interlaken is $236, while the average daily cost in Oslo is $138. 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 Interlaken and Oslo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $136
    Oslo $82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $272
    Oslo $164
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Oslo? 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 Interlaken


Hotels in Oslo


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: Interlaken Hotel Prices and Oslo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Oslo $24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Interlaken

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Interlaken are as follows:


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    $67

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

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

  • Private Transfer from interlaken City to Lucerne City: $110
  • Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $163
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $290

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:


  • Tram Ticket
    $6.69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Trondheim Vaernes Airport (TRD) to Trondheim- Round-Trip Transfer: $82
  • Trondheim Vaernes Airport (TRD) to Trondheim - Arrival Transfer : $41
  • Trondheim Private Transfer from Trondheim (TRD) Airport to City centre: $216
  • Sandefjord Private Transfer from Sandefjord (TRF) Airport to City centre: $133
  • Private Transfer from Oslo Airport to Oslo City Centre: $155
  • Private Transfer from Olso Airport to Olso Hotels: $83
  • Private Oslo Airport and City Transfers: $166
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer (Oslo Airport To/From Oslo): $90
  • Transfer Between Oslo City Center & Gardermoen Airport: $258
  • Oslo Private Transfer from Oslo city centre to Oslo airport: $207
  • Oslo Private Transfer from Oslo (OSL) Airport to City centre: $207
  • Oslo Private Airport Transfer Service || English Speaking Driver: $164

Is it cheaper to fly into Interlaken or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo and Interlaken 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
    Interlaken $65
    Oslo $30
Typical Food Prices in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Interlaken

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

  • Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland: $145
  • Cheese and Chocolate Full-Day Food Tour: $746

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oslo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Oslo.

  • Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner: $60
  • Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $76
  • Christmas Street Food Tour with Akevitt and Christmas beer : $116
  • 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $120
  • Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Interlaken $106
    Oslo $19

Tours and Activities in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm: $42
  • Rope Park Climbing Adventure with Entry Ticket: $47
  • Winterlaken Bike Tour with Rivers, Lakes & Hot Chocolate: $88
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder: $88
  • Interlaken waterfall tour: $90
  • Winterlaken Bike Tour: $90
  • Bollywood Tour Gstaad - Express Tour: $91
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder (Top of Interlaken): $104
  • From Guided Snowshoe Tour around Isenfluh: $110
  • From Wetterhorn Trail Snowshoe Hiking Tour: $110

Tours and Activities in Oslo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Oslo are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Sea Kayak Tour on Oslofjord from Central Oslo: $97
  • 2-Hour Essential Oslo in the City Center Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • 2-Hour Private Tour in Oslo, Norway: $203
  • 2.hr Oslo Kayak Tour “Fjord City”: $93
  • 2hr Retro Motorcycle Sidecar Oslo Highlights Tour: $222
  • 4 Hours Island Hopping Tour in Oslo: $49
  • 4 hours Winter View of the Oslofjord Walk Tour : $150
  • Akerselva River Kayak Tour; An Urban Paddling Adventure: $93
  • Akerselva River Tour : $97
  • An Oslo Waterfront Stroll: Self-paced Audio Tour: $7.99
  • City Sightseeing Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • Digging up the Past in Røros: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $17
    Oslo $11


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

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Oslo?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Oslo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Oslo. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Interlaken is a little warmer than Oslo in the summer. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Oslo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oslo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Interlaken this time of the year. In the summer, Interlaken often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Oslo. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F) 
    Oslo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Oslo in the Autumn?

Both Oslo and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Oslo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Interlaken is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Interlaken in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Oslo averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Oslo. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F) 
    Oslo 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Interlaken during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the winter for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Oslo can be very cold during winter. Interlaken can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Interlaken is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 3°C (37°F), and Oslo fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in January than Oslo. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F) 
    Oslo -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Oslo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Oslo. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Oslo because of the activities around the city.

Interlaken is much warmer than Oslo in the spring. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Oslo during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Oslo. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F) 
    Oslo 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Interlaken

Interlaken Oslo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)