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

Should you visit Kitzbuhel or Tromso?

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

Should I visit Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a breathtaking, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled ski resort. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a remote, one-of-a-kind, and spectacular town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Kitzbuhel and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights


Is there more to do in Kitzbuhel or Tromso?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kitzbuhel. Although Kitzbuhel and Tromso are both popular with visitors, Kitzbuhel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kitzbuhel is popular for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. It is also home to The Kitzbüheler Horn. Tromso is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

How is Kitzbuhel different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Tromso Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

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

Visitors will find world class skiing in Kitzbuhel. 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.

Tromso is not a skiing destination.


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

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

Kitzbuhel is adequate for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

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 Kitzbuhel or Tromso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

Dining out at restaurants in both Kitzbuhel and Tromso 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 Tromso is an experience not to be missed. 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 Kitzbuhel or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

Kitzbuhel is a great ski resort for its evening party scene. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.


Is Kitzbuhel or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

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

Kitzbuhel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Is Kitzbuhel or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

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

Around Kitzbuhel visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

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 Kitzbuhel or Tromso?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

Kitzbuhel is a ski resort with good options for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

Kitzbuhel has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

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 Kitzbuhel or Tromso Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kitzbuhel or Tromso.

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.

Tromso is known to be 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 Kitzbuhel or Tromso Better for Couples?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

With fun activities for couples, both Kitzbuhel and Tromso make for a excellent 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.

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 Kitzbuhel or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

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


Is Kitzbuhel or Tromso Better for Students?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

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

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.

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

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

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

Kitzbuhel and Tromso both offer good 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.

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Tromso a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel
Tromso

Kitzbuhel and Tromso are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

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


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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Kitzbuhel?

How long in Kitzbuhel or Tromso?

Both Kitzbuhel and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Kitzbuhel has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kitzbuhel than Tromso. However, 4-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Kitzbuhel or Tromso?

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 nightlife and food around the town of Tromso. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Tromso?

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 food and nightlife around the remote small town of Tromso. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Kitzbuhel or Tromso?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the spectacular town of Tromso. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.


A week in Kitzbuhel or Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tromso, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Tromso 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 Tromso 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 Tromso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kitzbuhel 89
    Tromso 52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kitzbuhel 178
    Tromso 104
Compare Hotels in Kitzbuhel and Tromso

Looking for a hotel in Kitzbuhel or Tromso? 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 Tromso


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 Tromso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kitzbuhel 69
    Tromso 27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tromso

Also for Tromso, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Highway to Heaven - Aurora Cable Car Transfer in Tromsø: $93
  • Private Airport and City Transfer in Tromso: $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Kitzbuhel or Tromso?

Prices for flights to both Tromso 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
    Tromso 36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

For Tromso, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3 Hours Private Walking Food Tour in Norway: $167
  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $173
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $186
  • Fjord Cruise Expedition with Dinner,Tromso: $206
  • Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner: $250
  • Aurora Borealis Cruise with Dinner in Tromso: $299

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

Tours and Activities in Tromso

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tromso.

  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $74
  • Arctic Fjordcruise & Safari in Tromso with Luxury Catamaran : $135
  • Arctic Landscapes Hiking Tour - Sightseeing & Snowshoeing, Tromsø: $164
  • Arctic Nature Photography Sightseeing Tour from Tromso: $131
  • Arctic Nature Tour from Tromsø by minibus: $131
  • Arctic Wildlife and Fjord Sightseeing: $206
  • Aurora Adventure Tour with Creative Vacations: $224
  • Aurora Cuisine Cruise: $158
  • Aurora Hunt Tour with Citizen Science from Tromso - Professional Photos Included: $243
  • Brews and Views City Walking Tour in Tromsø with Beer Tasting: $167
  • Discovery tour of the island of Senja and Kvaløya from Tromsø: $262
  • Exclusive Reindeers Experience in small groups, Tromso: $131

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kitzbuhel 11
    Tromso 7.84


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kitzbuhel and Tromso, we can see that Kitzbuhel 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 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 Tromso.

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


Which is Bigger, Kitzbuhel or Tromso?

Tromso has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Kitzbuhel 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.