A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koblenz vs. Lofoten Islands for Couples, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koblenz and Lofoten Islands. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koblenz

Koblenz is a dynamic, accessible, and historic city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a spectacular, dramatic, and remote archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Koblenz and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lofoten Islands than Koblenz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lofoten Islands is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Koblenz is more popular for its small town charm. Koblenz is more touristy than Lofoten Islands and is known for its location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, its popularity with river cruises, and its many nearby vineyards. Lofoten Islands is well known for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. Also, Lofoten Islands is famous for The Svolvær Goat Trail.

How is Koblenz different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Koblenz and Lofoten Islands.

Koblenz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most visitors head to the historic Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which can be reached by chairlift. Also make sure you visit the Forum Confluentes, the State Museum, the Romanticum, and the Koblenz Sparkling Wine Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lofoten Islands. The charming towns often have local museums that highlight the region's history and culture. The Lofoten War Memorial Museum is in the town of Svolvaer. The Lofotr Viking Museum is on the island of Vestvågøy and the Lofoten Museum is in Kabelvåg.


Is the Food Better in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lofoten Islands. Fish and lamb are both common at most restaurants in the area. The food is fresh, delicious, and filling, and although it's expensive, it's also high quality and uniquely local.

Koblenz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is large enough to have a diversity of restaurants that serve everything from local German specialties to other European dishes. If you want to enjoy some regional cuisine, try the Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef), Döppekooche (potato cakes), or locally brewed beer.

Is Koblenz or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Koblenz and Lofoten Islands.

Koblenz is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's a smaller city, but there are still pubs around town that attract a crowd. Enjoy the local beer and chat with the locals on a relaxing night out.

Lofoten Islands doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Is Koblenz or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is well known for the beache. However, Koblenz is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Lofoten Islands for it's beautiful beaches. Most people don't think of the Arctic when they think about beaches, but these islands have long sandy beaches that meet blue waters. They're tucked in between valleys and mountains and offer a surreal Arctic landscape.

Koblenz is not a beach destination.


Is Koblenz or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is well known for its old town. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lofoten Islands. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Koblenz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is fun to explore with its beautiful churches and quaint ice cream shops.

Is Koblenz or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Koblenz is not a hiking destination.

Lofoten Islands is well-known for its hiking and trekking. It's remote setting and dramatic scenery lead to some truly breathtaking hikes. You'll find trails that pass by beautiful beaches, climb spectacular peaks, and wander through the beautiful countryside. Reinebringen, Horseid Beach, and Bunes Beach are among the favorite hikes in the area.

Koblenz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lofoten Islands and Koblenz.

Koblenz offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of clothing shops in the old town where you can find a deal or splurge on a new outfit.

Lofoten Islands has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.


Is Koblenz or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koblenz is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Lofoten Islands is a very kid-friendly archipelago. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids will enjoy.

For families, Koblenz is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy the chairlift across the river that leads to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. It's also fun to take a stroll along the river, grab ice cream in old town, and play at one of the parks around town.

Is Koblenz or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Lofoten Islands is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning views, dramatic fjords, and world class outdoor adventures make this an amazing romantic destination for couples. If you enjoy the outdoors and adventure activities, then there is no shortage of opportunities to explore here.

Koblenz is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Seeped in romantic walks and historic buildings, couples will enjoy visiting this beautiful German town. Sip Reisling at one of the many restaurants or wander through the quaint old town.

Is Koblenz or Lofoten Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is well known for backpackers. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koblenz. There are a few affordable accommodation options around town. Food is reasonably priced as well so backpackers can enjoy a visit without breaking the bank.


Is Koblenz or Lofoten Islands Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Koblenz is very good for its public transit. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Koblenz has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel the major routes around town. There's also a cable car that takes you up to the fortress.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lofoten Islands. There are buses and ferries, but the service is limited, although reliable.

Is Koblenz or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Koblenz
Lofoten Islands

Koblenz is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its ease of walking around.

Koblenz is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay in the old town, you'll have no trouble walking around, but the train station is a good distance from the old town.

Lofoten Islands is not a very walkable city. Although the area is filled with hikes, you really must have a car if you hope to explore it with flexibility and accessibility.

For even more information, also check out Is Koblenz Worth Visiting? and Is Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Koblenz?

How long in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

Both Koblenz and Lofoten Islands have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lofoten Islands than in Koblenz. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Koblenz, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Koblenz 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 Lofoten Islands.


  • How many days in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koblenz 1-2 
    Lofoten Islands 4-7

One day in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

The dynamic destination of Koblenz offers shopping and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Lofoten Islands, you'll find museums and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

The city of Koblenz offers museums and food. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Lofoten Islands, you'll find food and shopping. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

Koblenz is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Lofoten Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lofoten Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Koblenz. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lofoten Islands. In Lofoten Islands, you'll find museums and food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.


Which place is cheaper, Lofoten Islands or Koblenz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Koblenz is €124, while the average daily cost in Lofoten Islands is €50. 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 Koblenz and Lofoten Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koblenz 67
    Lofoten Islands 6.67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koblenz 134
    Lofoten Islands 13
Compare Hotels in Koblenz and Lofoten Islands

Looking for a hotel in Koblenz or Lofoten Islands? 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 Koblenz


Hotels in Lofoten Islands


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: Koblenz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koblenz 42
    Lofoten Islands 9.86

Is it cheaper to fly into Koblenz or Lofoten Islands?

Prices for flights to both Lofoten Islands and Koblenz 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
    Koblenz 28
    Lofoten Islands 32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koblenz 30
    Lofoten Islands 23

Tours and Activities in Koblenz

Here are a few actual costs in Koblenz for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Old Town Sightseeing Cruise along the Rhine: $15
  • Cochem 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise: $15
  • Sightseeing Shippingtour around Koblenz: $16
  • Rhine Valley Castles and Palaces Boat Tour: $19
  • Panoramic Cruise on Moselle River to Winningen: $20
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Rhine: $20
  • Historical Sparkling Wine Museum Guided Tour: $20
  • Christmas Boat Tour with Mulled Wine: $21
  • Cochem Evening Panorama Cruise : $27
  • Private city tour VW Bulli meets mining museum in Bochum: $71

Tours and Activities in Lofoten Islands

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

  • Small-Group Cultural Walking Tour of Skrova: $33
  • Winter Half Day Kayak Tour: $92
  • Sea Kayak Guided Tours on Skrova Island: $115
  • From Leknes port: Special Summer Guided Tour of Lofoten : $125

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koblenz 7.79
    Lofoten Islands 0.67

Sample the Local Flavors in Koblenz

Also in Koblenz, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private wine tasting meets Bulli in the Ruhr area: $75


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

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