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

Should you visit Kitzbuhel or Flam?

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

Should I visit Kitzbuhel or Flam? 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 breathtaking, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled ski resort. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Flam

Flam is a natural, breathtaking, and beautiful village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Kitzbuhel and Flam: 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
Pros
  • 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 popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Kitzbuhel or Flam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kitzbuhel. Although Kitzbuhel and Flam are popular destinations, Kitzbuhel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kitzbuhel is famous for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. It is also well known for The Kitzbüheler Horn. Flam is famous for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Kitzbuhel different from Flam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Flam Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kitzbuhel is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Flam is not a skiing destination.

Kitzbuhel is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. 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.

Flam is not a skiing destination.


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

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kitzbuhel is adequate for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Kitzbuhel specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.

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

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Dining out at restaurants in both Kitzbuhel and Flam 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 Flam is an experience not to be missed. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants as well.

Is Kitzbuhel or Flam Better for Nightlife?

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Kitzbuhel has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.


Is Kitzbuhel or Flam Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort for its historic old town. However, Flam does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Flam does not have a historic old town.

Is Kitzbuhel or Flam Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kitzbuhel is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for the nearby hiking options.

Kitzbuhel is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Flam is a popular spot for hiking. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Is the Shopping Better in Kitzbuhel or Flam?

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kitzbuhel is a good destination for shopping. However, Flam is not known for its shopping opportunities.

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.


Is Kitzbuhel or Flam Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kitzbuhel or Flam.

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.

Flam is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.

Is Kitzbuhel or Flam Better for Couples?

Kitzbuhel
Flam

With fun activities for couples, both Kitzbuhel and Flam make for a superb 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.

Flam is a very popular place to visit for couples. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.

Is Kitzbuhel or Flam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for backpackers.

Kitzbuhel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.


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

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kitzbuhel and Flam 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.

Flam has a few public transit options. There is a local bus service through the area.

Is Kitzbuhel or Flam a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel
Flam

Kitzbuhel and Flam are superb when it comes to walkability.

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

Flam is a very walkable destination. There are many great walks in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Flam or Kitzbuhel?

How long in Kitzbuhel or Flam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kitzbuhel or Flam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kitzbuhel than Flam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Kitzbuhel, and 1-2 days is enough time in Flam.

Families should spend more time in Kitzbuhel than Flam. 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 Flam. 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 Flam 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 Flam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kitzbuhel 4-7 
    Flam 1-2

One day in Kitzbuhel or Flam?

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

You'll find food around the village of Flam. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Flam has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Kitzbuhel or Flam?

Kitzbuhel is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

You'll find food around the natural small town of Flam. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Kitzbuhel or Flam?

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

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the breathtaking village of Flam. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kitzbuhel or Flam?

Even though Kitzbuhel 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.

Flam is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Adventure Tours to Norway, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Flam 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 Flam is €104. 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 Flam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kitzbuhel 89
    Flam 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kitzbuhel 178
    Flam 108
Compare Hotels in Kitzbuhel and Flam

Looking for a hotel in Kitzbuhel or Flam? 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 Flam


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
    Flam 16

Is it cheaper to fly into Kitzbuhel or Flam?

Prices for flights to both Flam 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
    Flam 33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 34
    Flam 16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kitzbuhel 11
    Flam 3.44


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

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


Which is Bigger, Kitzbuhel or Flam?

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