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

Should you visit Interlaken or Tromso?

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 Tromso can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a stunning, adventurous, and adrenaline-filled town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a spectacular, remote, and one-of-a-kind town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Interlaken and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Tromso?

Both Tromso and Interlaken have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Interlaken is better known for its skiing, hiking, and quaint atmosphere, while Tromso is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Interlaken is more touristy than Tromso and is known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Tromso is well known for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

How is Interlaken different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Tromso Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a town with good options for skiing. However, Tromso is not a skiing destination.

Head to Interlaken for some great skiing and other winter activities. 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.

Tromso is not a skiing destination.

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

Foodies will find both Interlaken and Tromso both to be superb destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Interlaken. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Tromso. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

Is Interlaken or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Tromso 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 Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Around Interlaken visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Tromso is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Tromso?

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

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Tromso Better for Families?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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!

Tromso is a very family-friendly place to visit. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

Is Interlaken or Tromso Better for Couples?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Interlaken is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Tromso is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

Is Interlaken or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken and Tromso are both notable 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 Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Interlaken or Tromso Better for Students?

Tromso is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Tromso. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Interlaken. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Interlaken or Tromso a more walkable city?

Tromso 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.

Tromso is very walkable. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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 Tromso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Tromso?

Both Interlaken and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Interlaken. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Interlaken, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

Couples should spend more time in Interlaken than Tromso. 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 Tromso 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 Tromso.

One day in Interlaken or Tromso?

Many travelers enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Interlaken or Tromso?

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Even though Tromso is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Interlaken or Tromso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Tromso, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Interlaken or Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Interlaken. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Tromso is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Interlaken and Tromso, we can see that Interlaken is more expensive. And not only is Tromso much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tromso would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tromso 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 Tromso.

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

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Tromso?

Tromso has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Interlaken or Tromso in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Tromso. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Tromso in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Interlaken is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 21°C (70°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tromso this time of the year. In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during summer. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Tromso. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Interlaken or Tromso in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Tromso. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Tromso for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tromso can be very cold during autumn. Interlaken is much warmer than Tromso in the autumn. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the autumn, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tromso. Interlaken usually gets less rain in October than Tromso. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Tromso in the Winter?

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

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. Interlaken can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Interlaken is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the winter temperatures in Interlaken in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Tromso averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during winter. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of rain as Tromso. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Interlaken or Tromso in the Spring?

Both Tromso and Interlaken during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the spring. In April, Interlaken is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 12°C (53°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the spring, Interlaken often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in April than Tromso. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Tromso and Interlaken