A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lofoten Islands vs. Brescia for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lofoten Islands or Brescia?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Lofoten Islands and Brescia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a remote, pristine, and charming archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for museums, food, and beaches.

Brescia

Brescia is a under-rated, historic, and undisovered city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lofoten Islands and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lofoten Islands or Brescia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lofoten Islands. Although Lofoten Islands and Brescia are popular destinations, Lofoten Islands has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lofoten Islands is very popular for its beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Brescia attracts visitors for its nightlife and shopping. Lofoten Islands is famous for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. It is also well known for The Svolvær Goat Trail. Brescia is famous for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Lofoten Islands different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Lofoten Islands and Brescia.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Brescia. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


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

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Both Lofoten Islands and Brescia offer excellent local cuisine and 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.

Brescia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Lofoten Islands or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Brescia is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Brescia. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night 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 Lofoten Islands or Brescia Better for Beaches?

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Lofoten Islands is well known for its beaches. However, Brescia is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Lofoten Islands. 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.

Brescia is not a beach destination.


Is Lofoten Islands or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Lofoten Islands is well known for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Lofoten Islands to see the historical old town. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Is Lofoten Islands or Brescia Better for Hiking?

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Lofoten Islands is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Brescia is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Lofoten Islands draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Brescia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lofoten Islands or Brescia?

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Brescia 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.

Brescia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

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


Is Lofoten Islands or Brescia Better for Families?

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

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

Lofoten Islands is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Lofoten Islands or Brescia Better for Couples?

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Lofoten Islands is renowned for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Lofoten Islands has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.

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

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Lofoten Islands is well known for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Lofoten Islands. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.


Is Lofoten Islands or Brescia Better for Students?

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

Brescia is very good for students. However, Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Brescia is a good city to visit for students. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

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

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

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

Brescia has a few public transit options. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

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

Is Lofoten Islands or Brescia a more walkable city?

Lofoten Islands
Brescia

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

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

Lofoten Islands is not a very walkable archipelago. 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 Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Brescia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Lofoten Islands?

How long in Lofoten Islands or Brescia?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Brescia 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 Lofoten Islands or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lofoten Islands 4-7 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Lofoten Islands or Brescia?

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.

The authentic destination of Brescia offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Lofoten Islands or Brescia?

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.

The city of Brescia offers food and shopping. 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.

Five days in Lofoten Islands or Brescia?

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.

Brescia 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.


A week in Lofoten Islands or Brescia?

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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brescia. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Lofoten Islands?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lofoten Islands is $53, while the average daily cost in Brescia is $154. 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 Lofoten Islands and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lofoten Islands $7.12
    Brescia $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lofoten Islands $14
    Brescia $160
Compare Hotels in Lofoten Islands and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Lofoten Islands or Brescia? 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 Lofoten Islands


Hotels in Brescia


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: Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lofoten Islands $11
    Brescia $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Lofoten Islands or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Lofoten Islands 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
    Lofoten Islands $34
    Brescia $50

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brescia.

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lofoten Islands $24
    Brescia $33

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

Tours and Activities in Brescia

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

  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Tour in Lugana DOP - 3 wines from Perla del Garda: $33
  • Sirmione Sunset Tour: $38
  • Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour with a Drink On Board: $57
  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Italy most underrated city:Brescia-Walking tour with a drink: $74
  • Photographic tour at sunset on Lake Garda: $78
  • Canyoning "Gumpenfever" - beginner Canyoningtour for everyone: $84
  • Lake Cruise (visit Torri & Gargnano): $91
  • Desenzano e-bike tour: $98
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lofoten Islands $0.72
    Brescia $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


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