A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kitzbuhel vs. Bergen for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Kitzbuhel or Bergen?

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

Should I visit Kitzbuhel or Bergen? 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. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Bergen

Bergen is a laid back, nostalgic, and friendly city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kitzbuhel and Bergen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Kitzbuhel or Bergen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kitzbuhel. Although Kitzbuhel and Bergen are both popular with visitors, Kitzbuhel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kitzbuhel is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bergen is known for its museums and shopping. Kitzbuhel is more touristy than Bergen and is popular for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. It is also home to The Kitzbüheler Horn. Bergen is popular for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty.

How is Kitzbuhel different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Bergen Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Kitzbuhel is very popular for snow skiing. However, Bergen 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.

Bergen is not a skiing destination.


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

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

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

Bergen offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

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 Bergen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Kitzbuhel is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Kitzbuhel is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Kitzbuhel or Bergen Better for Nightlife?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Kitzbuhel is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Kitzbuhel has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.


Is Kitzbuhel or Bergen Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Kitzbuhel is notable for its historic old town charm. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Bergen is a good destination for visiting its old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Is Kitzbuhel or Bergen Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Kitzbuhel is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Bergen 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.

Bergen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kitzbuhel or Bergen?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Bergen is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its shopping areas.

Bergen is well-known for its shopping. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Many visitors go to Kitzbuhel to go shopping. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.


Is Kitzbuhel or Bergen Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kitzbuhel or Bergen.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kitzbuhel is very family-friendly. 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.

Bergen is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Is Kitzbuhel or Bergen Better for Couples?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

With fun activities for couples, both Kitzbuhel and Bergen make for a high quality place to visit.

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Bergen is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

Is Kitzbuhel or Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Kitzbuhel is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular ski resort for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.


Is Kitzbuhel or Bergen Better for Students?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

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

It's common for students to visit Bergen. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

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

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Bergen is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its public transit.

Bergen has some very good public transit options. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

Kitzbuhel has a few public transit options. 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.

Is Kitzbuhel or Bergen a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel
Bergen

Kitzbuhel and Bergen are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Bergen is a very walkable destination. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Bergen or Kitzbuhel?

How long in Kitzbuhel or Bergen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kitzbuhel and Bergen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Bergen. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Kitzbuhel, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bergen.

Families should spend more time in Kitzbuhel than Bergen. 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 Bergen. 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 Bergen 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 Bergen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kitzbuhel 4-7 
    Bergen 1-3

One day in Kitzbuhel or Bergen?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bergen. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bergen has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Kitzbuhel or Bergen?

Kitzbuhel is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Bergen. 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 Bergen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kitzbuhel. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the nostalgic city of Bergen. 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 Bergen?

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Bergen 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 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Bergen 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 Bergen is €102. 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 Bergen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kitzbuhel 89
    Bergen 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kitzbuhel 178
    Bergen 126
Compare Hotels in Kitzbuhel and Bergen

Looking for a hotel in Kitzbuhel or Bergen? 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 Bergen


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 and Bergen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 69
    Bergen 9.05

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergen:

  • From Private Transfer to Gudvangen: $443
  • From Private Transfer to Voss: $362
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Solstrand Hotel transfer: $286
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Panorama Hotel & Resort transfer: $286
  • Private Bergen Airport Transfer to or from Bergen City: $251
  • TRANSFER, LUXURY VAN 1-7 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $233
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen City by Minibus: $198
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bergen City to Bergen Airport BGO by Minibus: $198
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $192
  • TRANSFER, LUXURY VAN 1-7 PAX: Bergen city transfer: $177
  • TRANSFER, LUXURY CAR 1-3 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $172
  • Private Transfer to Airport, City or Cruise Port: $153

Is it cheaper to fly into Kitzbuhel or Bergen?

Prices for flights to both Bergen 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
    Bergen 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergen

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

  • Guided Fishing Tour with Outdoor Cooking: $180

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

Tours and Activities in Bergen

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

  • 2 Hour Private Guided Walking Tour of Bergen: $55
  • 3-Hour Private Norwegian Hiking Experience with Local Guide: $121
  • 3-Hour Private Tour Hiked through the Bergen Mountains: $148
  • Authentic Private Walking Tour of Bergen: $96
  • Bergen 3-Hour Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Bergen Cruise - Guided City & Harbor Sightseeing: $36
  • Bergen Day Tour to National Park Folgefonna and Glacier Lake: $206
  • Bergen Fjord Cruise to Alversund Streams - All year: $55
  • Bergen Fjord Cruise to Alversund Streams - All year: $55
  • Bergen Fjord Experience Aboard Viking-style Ship: $84
  • Bergen Golden Circle Fjortour by Minibus: $5.00
  • Bergen Guided Tour by Minibus (with Photo stops) & Bryggen Walk: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kitzbuhel 11
    Bergen 6.44


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

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


Which is Bigger, Kitzbuhel or Bergen?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Kitzbuhel and Bergen, 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.