A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kiel vs. Tromso for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Kiel or Tromso?

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

Should I visit Kiel or Tromso? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kiel

Kiel is a off-the-beaten-path, waterfront, and maritime city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Tromso

Tromso is a remote, one-of-a-kind, and spectacular town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Kiel and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kiel or Tromso?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kiel than Tromso, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kiel is more popular for its museums, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Tromso is known for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tromso is more touristy than Kiel and is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords. Kiel is popular for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival. It is also home to The Kiel Castle.

How is Kiel different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kiel or Tromso?

Kiel is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kiel. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.

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

Tromso is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Kiel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Kiel or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Kiel and Tromso.

Kiel has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

If you're looking for night time activities Tromso has a few options to choose from. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Kiel or Tromso Better for Beaches?

Kiel is a city with good options for the beach. However, Tromso is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Kiel. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Tromso is not a beach destination.

Is Kiel or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Tromso is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Kiel is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Tromso. 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.

Kiel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kiel or Tromso?

Kiel is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

Kiel has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

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.

Is Kiel or Tromso Better for Families?

Tromso is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Tromso is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Kiel offers lots of family activities. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

Is Kiel or Tromso Better for Couples?

Tromso is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Tromso frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Kiel is a good city for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Kiel or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tromso is a popular place for backpackers. However, Kiel is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Kiel or Tromso Better for Students?

Kiel and Tromso are good places to visit for students.

Kiel is popular with students. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

It's common for students to 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.

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

Tromso is a popular place for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Tromso, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Kiel or Tromso a more walkable city?

Tromso is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Kiel is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Kiel Worth Visiting? and Is Tromso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Kiel?

How long in Kiel or Tromso?

Both Kiel 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 Kiel. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Kiel, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tromso than Kiel 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 Kiel or Tromso?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kiel. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Kiel or Tromso?

Kiel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Tromso is a fun place to experience. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Kiel or Tromso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kiel. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

A week in Kiel or Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Kiel. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Even though Tromso is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.

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

Which is Bigger, Kiel or Tromso?

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

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 Kiel or Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Kiel during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kiel in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tromso for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Kiel is a little warmer than Tromso. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kiel in July average around 16°C (61°F), and Tromso averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Tromso, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kiel. In the summer, Kiel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso. Kiel gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets more rain in July than Tromso. Kiel gets 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kiel or Tromso in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kiel and Tromso. Most visitors come to Kiel for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Tromso because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. In October, Kiel is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Kiel average around 10°C (50°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Kiel usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Kiel gets 102 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tromso receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Kiel usually receives less rain than Tromso. Kiel gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kiel or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kiel as well as Tromso. The winter months attract visitors to Kiel because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the winter. The weather in Kiel can be very cold. Kiel is much warmer than Tromso in the winter. The daily temperature in Kiel averages around 0°C (33°F) in January, and Tromso fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Kiel often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Kiel gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets less rain in January than Tromso. Kiel gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kiel or Tromso in the Spring?

Both Tromso and Kiel are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Kiel this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tromso for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. In the spring, Kiel is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kiel in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Tromso averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Kiel usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso during spring. Kiel gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kiel usually receives less rain than Tromso. Kiel gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tromso and Kiel