A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kitzbuhel vs. Alesund for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

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

Should I visit Kitzbuhel or Alesund? 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.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and world-class ski resort. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Alesund

Alesund is a scenic, laid back, and welcoming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kitzbuhel and Alesund: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kitzbuhel. Although Kitzbuhel and Alesund are popular destinations, Kitzbuhel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kitzbuhel is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Alesund attracts visitors for its museums and big city activities. Kitzbuhel is more touristy than Alesund and is popular for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. It is also well known for The Kitzbüheler Horn. Alesund is famous for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords.

How is Kitzbuhel different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Kitzbuhel is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Alesund is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Kitzbuhel should be on your list. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Alesund is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Alesund is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Kitzbuhel is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Alesund offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.

Kitzbuhel offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

Is the Food Better in Kitzbuhel or Alesund? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Dining out at restaurants in both Kitzbuhel and Alesund can be an enjoyable experience.

Kitzbuhel has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

Dining out in Alesund is an experience not to be missed. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Kitzbuhel is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Kitzbuhel offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.


Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Kitzbuhel is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.

Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Kitzbuhel is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Alesund is not a hiking destination.

People visit Kitzbuhel specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Alesund is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

If you're looking to go shopping, Kitzbuhel and Alesund both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kitzbuhel. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Many visitors go to Alesund to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.


Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Kitzbuhel is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Kitzbuhel is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

Alesund is a family-friendly ski resort. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund Better for Couples?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Kitzbuhel is a well-known place for romance. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

Alesund makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.

Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Kitzbuhel is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Kitzbuhel. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.


Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund Better for Students?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Alesund is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Alesund. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Kitzbuhel and Alesund both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Kitzbuhel offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

Alesund has a few public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.

Is Kitzbuhel or Alesund a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel
Alesund

Kitzbuhel is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Kitzbuhel is very walkable. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Kitzbuhel Worth Visiting? and Is Alesund Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Kitzbuhel?

How long in Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kitzbuhel and Alesund. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Alesund. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Kitzbuhel, and 2-3 days is enough time in Alesund.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kitzbuhel than Alesund 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 Kitzbuhel.


  • How many days in Kitzbuhel or Alesund? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kitzbuhel 4-7 
    Alesund 2-3

One day in Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This ski resort offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Alesund. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

Kitzbuhel might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Alesund. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

Kitzbuhel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kitzbuhel has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Alesund. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kitzbuhel. Kitzbuhel is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Alesund is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Norway, and The Best Contiki Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Alesund or Kitzbuhel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kitzbuhel is €179, while the average daily cost in Alesund is €93. 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 Kitzbuhel and Alesund in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kitzbuhel 89
    Alesund 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kitzbuhel 178
    Alesund 98
Compare Hotels in Kitzbuhel and Alesund

Looking for a hotel in Kitzbuhel or Alesund? 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 Kitzbuhel


Hotels in Alesund


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: Kitzbuhel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 69
    Alesund 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Geiranger Port: $185
  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund city centre to Aalesund airport: $135
  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund (AES) Airport to City centre: $135
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $71
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Olden Port: $64
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Olden Cruise Port: $60
  • Alesund to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES)-Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Molde Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Molde Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $37
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

Prices for flights to both Alesund and Kitzbuhel 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
    Kitzbuhel 48
    Alesund 28

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 34
    Alesund 15

Tours and Activities in Alesund

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

  • Ålesund Round Trip – A Great Kayak Adventure: $186
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $102
  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $42
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $42
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $111
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $125
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $140
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $121
  • Fjordcruise Ålesund Geirangerfjord T/R: $163
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $55
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kitzbuhel 11
    Alesund 11


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

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


Which is Bigger, Kitzbuhel or Alesund?

Alesund has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Kitzbuhel and Alesund, 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.