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

Should you visit Lofoten Islands or Bressanone?

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 Bressanone can help you decide which place is right for you.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a charming, quaint, and spectacular archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Bressanone

Bressanone is a charming, quaint, 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, hiking, and shopping.

Lofoten Islands and Bressanone: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Lofoten Islands or Bressanone?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lofoten Islands. Although Lofoten Islands and Bressanone are both popular with visitors, Lofoten Islands has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lofoten Islands is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bressanone is known for its small town charm. Lofoten Islands is popular for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. It is also home to The Svolvær Goat Trail. Bressanone is popular for its charming old town and its idyllic setting.

How is Lofoten Islands different from Bressanone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bressanone 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 Bressanone?

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Lofoten Islands and Bressanone.

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 Bressanone. Most visitors simply enjoy soaking up the town's atmosphere, but sights around town include The Royal Palace, the cathedral, and Franzenfeste Fortress.


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

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Both Lofoten Islands and Bressanone offer superb 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.

Bressanone has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Despite its small size, there are many family run restaurants that make use of ingredients from local farms. The town also hosts a few culinary festivals throughout the year.

Is Lofoten Islands or Bressanone Better for Nightlife?

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Both Lofoten Islands and Bressanone are decent when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Lofoten Islands specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bressanone. It's a small town with some quaint bars and pubs where you can enjoy a beer and chat with other visitors.

Is Lofoten Islands or Bressanone Better for Beaches?

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Lofoten Islands is a great destination for the beach. However, Bressanone 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.

Bressanone is not a beach destination.


Is Lofoten Islands or Bressanone Better for its Old Town?

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Lofoten Islands and Bressanone are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lofoten Islands. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Many visitors go to Bressanone to see the historical old town. The cathedral and beautiful old buildings make this a charming place to explore.

Is Lofoten Islands or Bressanone Better for Hiking?

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Lofoten Islands is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Bressanone for the hiking trails. There's a huge variety of hikes in the surrounding countryside. You can walk alongside the river, head into the foothills, or explore the nearby vineyards.

Is the Shopping Better in Lofoten Islands or Bressanone?

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Both Lofoten Islands and Bressanone are good shopping destinations.

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

Bressanone has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The medieval streets are lined with family-owned shops, boutique clothing stores, and other unique local shopping opportunities.


Is Lofoten Islands or Bressanone Better for Families?

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Lofoten Islands is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bressanone is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Lofoten Islands is known to be 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, Bressanone is not always the best place to visit. It's a great town to take a lunch break. The kids will enjoy wandering the alley-like streets. There's a river through town and great views of the Alps.

Is Lofoten Islands or Bressanone Better for Couples?

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Lofoten Islands is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Bressanone is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. This charming town is seeped in romance. The quaint streets and surrounding mountain setting make this an idyllic place to take a romantic trip.

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

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Lofoten Islands is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bressanone is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lofoten Islands is a very popular archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bressanone. There's a couple of hostels and cheaper guesthouses in town, so backpackers can enjoy a few days in this picturesque alpine town.


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

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

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

Bressanone has a few public transit options. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

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

Is Lofoten Islands or Bressanone a more walkable city?

Lofoten Islands
Bressanone

Bressanone 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.

Bressanone is a very walkable town. The town is compact and small enough to explore on foot.

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 Bressanone Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bressanone or Lofoten Islands?

How long in Lofoten Islands or Bressanone?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lofoten Islands or Bressanone to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lofoten Islands than Bressanone 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 Bressanone.

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

One day in Lofoten Islands or Bressanone?

With museums and food around the dramatic archipelago of Lofoten Islands, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Bressanone 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 enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Lofoten Islands or Bressanone?

With food and shopping around the destination of Lofoten Islands, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Bressanone might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Five days in Lofoten Islands or Bressanone?

Lofoten Islands, a popular archipelago, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this archipelago. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Bressanone 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.

A week in Lofoten Islands or Bressanone?

Lofoten Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Since Bressanone 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bressanone 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 Bressanone is $148. 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 Bressanone in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lofoten Islands $7.12
    Bressanone $77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lofoten Islands $14
    Bressanone $154
Compare Hotels in Lofoten Islands and Bressanone

Looking for a hotel in Lofoten Islands or Bressanone? 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 Bressanone


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: Bressanone Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lofoten Islands $11
    Bressanone $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Lofoten Islands or Bressanone?

Prices for flights to both Bressanone 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
    Bressanone $50

Typical Food Prices in Bressanone

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


  • Gelato
    $2.36

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lofoten Islands $24
    Bressanone $21

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
    Lofoten Islands $0.72
    Bressanone $28

Typical Alcohol Prices in Bressanone

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Bressanone:


  • 1/2 Litre of wine
    $9.64
  • 2 Glasses of Wine
    $7.50


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