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

Should you visit Linz 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 Linz 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.

Linz

Linz is a beautiful, cultural, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a spectacular, dramatic, and remote archipelago. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Linz and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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 Linz or Lofoten Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lofoten Islands than Linz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lofoten Islands is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Linz is more popular for its museums and shopping. Linz is more touristy than Lofoten Islands and is known for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries. 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 Linz different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Linz is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Linz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art 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 Linz or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Linz or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Both Linz and Lofoten Islands are respectable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Linz specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Lofoten Islands. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Is Linz or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a well-known place for the beache. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a beach destination.


Is Linz or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

Lofoten Islands is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Is Linz or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Linz or Lofoten Islands?

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Linz is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its shopping areas.

Linz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

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


Is Linz or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Linz is a family-friendly town. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Linz or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Linz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

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

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.


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

Linz
Lofoten Islands

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

Linz has a few public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

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

Is Linz or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Linz
Lofoten Islands

Linz 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.

Linz is a very walkable town. The tourist areas are easy to explore on foot.

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 Linz Worth Visiting? and Is Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Linz?

How long in Linz or Lofoten Islands?

Both Linz 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 Linz. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Linz, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

Families should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Linz. 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 Linz. 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 Linz 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 Linz or Lofoten Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Linz 1-2 
    Lofoten Islands 4-7

One day in Linz or Lofoten Islands?

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Lofoten Islands. 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.


A weekend in Linz or Lofoten Islands?

The town of Linz 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.

Lofoten Islands is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Five days in Linz or Lofoten Islands?

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dramatic destination of Lofoten Islands. This archipelago 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.

A week in Linz or Lofoten Islands?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Linz. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the pristine archipelago of Lofoten Islands. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.


Which place is cheaper, Lofoten Islands or Linz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Linz is €114, 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 Linz and Lofoten Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Linz 58
    Lofoten Islands 6.67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Linz 116
    Lofoten Islands 13
Compare Hotels in Linz and Lofoten Islands

Looking for a hotel in Linz 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 Linz


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: Linz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Linz 41
    Lofoten Islands 9.86

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $180
  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Linz or Lofoten Islands?

Prices for flights to both Lofoten Islands and Linz 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
    Linz 32
    Lofoten Islands 32
Typical Food Prices in Linz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Linz are as follows:


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    4.20
  • Lunch
    8.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Linz 13
    Lofoten Islands 23

Tours and Activities in Linz

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

  • Linz Harbor Cruise: $15
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • What the bloody hell is there in Linz? 1,5 hour walking tour: $24
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private History Tour with a Linzer Cake Tasting: $149
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176
  • Linz Old Town Highlights Walking Tour with Pöstlingbergbahn: $191
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $205
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour: $210
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour : $214

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
    Linz 16
    Lofoten Islands 0.67


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