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

Should you visit Lindau or Lofoten Islands?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Lindau and Lofoten Islands can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Lindau

Lindau is a scenic, alpine, and picturesque town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the 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 food, beaches, and hiking.

Lindau and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Lindau or Lofoten Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lofoten Islands than Lindau, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lofoten Islands is better known for its museums, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Lindau is more popular for its small town charm. Lindau is more touristy than Lofoten Islands and is known for its lakefront location and quaint old town. 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 Lindau different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a archipelago with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Lofoten Islands offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

While most people don't head to Lindau specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town is more about it's beautiful setting than landmarks and museums, but there are some interesting sights including the harbor and lighthouse.


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

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Lindau and Lofoten Islands.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lindau. Head to the waterfront for the best seafood restaurants. Many restaurants use seasonal ingredients and serve local fish. The local whitefish is particularly popular. Dishes are influenced by the town's proximity to Switzerland and Austria, so you'll enjoy a hybrid of flavors and recipes.

Lofoten Islands has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Lindau or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

It's hard to distinguish whether Lindau or Lofoten Islands has a better nightlife scene.

Lindau is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not known for its nightlife scene but there are bars where you can enjoy 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 Lindau or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a great destination for the beache. However, Lindau is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Lofoten Islands attract visitors from all over. 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.

Lindau is not a beach destination.


Is Lindau or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Both Lindau and Lofoten Islands have superb historic old towns worth visiting.

Lindau is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is located on Lindau island in Lake Constance. It has quaint buildings and many waterfront restaurants.

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.

Is Lindau or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Lindau is not a hiking destination.

Around Lofoten Islands visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Lindau is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lindau or Lofoten Islands?

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a archipelago with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Lindau is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lofoten Islands offers some nice shopping areas. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.

Lindau is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Lindau or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Both Lindau and Lofoten Islands are superb to visit with kids.

Lindau is a very kid-friendly town. Head to the waterfront where there's a playground, stand up paddleboarding, paddleboats, and more. Kids will also enjoy climbing to the top of the Old Lighthouse or exploring the Museum of Local History.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lofoten Islands. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids will enjoy.

Is Lindau or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Lindau is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Lofoten Islands is a great archipelago for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Lindau is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming old town, beautiful waterfront, great seafood restaurants, and nice hotels, couples will really enjoy a few days away at this lakefront town. It's the perfect place to have a romantic weekend.

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

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Lindau 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 backpackers visit Lindau. The town has a couple of hostels and affordable hotels that make this waterfront town accessible to backpackers and budget travelers.


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

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Lindau and Lofoten Islands.

Public transit is generally limited in Lindau. It's possible to reach town by bus or train and once you're in town you can walk many places.

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

Is Lindau or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Lindau
Lofoten Islands

Lindau is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its ease of walking around.

Lindau is a very walkable town. The town is very walkable and there are also many walks into the countryside.

Lofoten Islands is not a very walkable town. 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 Lindau Worth Visiting? and Is Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Lindau?

How long in Lindau or Lofoten Islands?

Both Lindau 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 Lindau. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Lindau, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

Families should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Lindau. 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 Lindau. 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 Lindau 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 Lindau or Lofoten Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lindau 2-4 
    Lofoten Islands 4-7

One day in Lindau or Lofoten Islands?

Lindau is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lofoten Islands. 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.


A weekend in Lindau or Lofoten Islands?

Lindau might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Lofoten Islands is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lindau or Lofoten Islands?

Lindau is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lofoten Islands. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

A week in Lindau or Lofoten Islands?

Since Lindau is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Lofoten Islands. This archipelago 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.


Which place is cheaper, Lofoten Islands or Lindau?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lindau is €163, 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 Lindau and Lofoten Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lindau 91
    Lofoten Islands 6.67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lindau 182
    Lofoten Islands 13
Compare Hotels in Lindau and Lofoten Islands

Looking for a hotel in Lindau 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 Lindau


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: Lindau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lindau 40
    Lofoten Islands 9.86

Is it cheaper to fly into Lindau or Lofoten Islands?

Prices for flights to both Lofoten Islands and Lindau 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
    Lindau 45
    Lofoten Islands 32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lindau 27
    Lofoten Islands 23

Tours and Activities in Lindau

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

  • Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $207
  • Lindau Private Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Lindau - Town Highlights Walking Tour: $321

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 : $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lindau 25
    Lofoten Islands 0.67

Sample the Local Flavors in Lindau

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

  • Lake Constance wine tour > day tour > wine tasting at 3 winemakers: $195


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lindau and Lofoten Islands, we can see that Lindau 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 Lindau would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lindau 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 Lindau Expensive? and Is Lofoten Islands Expensive?.