A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Gjovik for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Lucerne or Gjovik?

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 Lucerne and Gjovik. 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a active, cultural, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Gjovik

Gjovik is a relaxed, accessible, and friendly town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Gjovik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Lucerne or Gjovik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lucerne. Although Lucerne and Gjovik are popular destinations, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Gjovik attracts visitors for its food. Lucerne is more touristy than Gjovik and is known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge. Gjovik is famous for its beautiful surrounding countryside and nice landscape.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Gjovik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lucerne or Gjovik?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Lucerne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Gjovik is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of sights and attractions near town such as the Gjøvik Olympic Cavern Hall and the Royal Palace.


Is the Food Better in Lucerne or Gjovik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Gjovik is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Gjovik has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many local restaurants that range from fine dining opportunities to local cafes. Dishes usually include local ingredients that are fresh and high quality.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Gjovik Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Lucerne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Gjovik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find some bars and pubs around town as well as a couple of nightclubs.

Is Lucerne or Gjovik Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Gjovik does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Gjovik does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Gjovik?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Gjovik is a great destination for shopping. The town center has some nice retail shops with clothing and other interesting items.

Is Lucerne or Gjovik Better for Families?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Both Lucerne and Gjovik are nice family-friendly destinations.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Gjovik is a family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a combination of museums and outdoor adventure activities. There are climbing parks, Olympic centers, and art galleries that the whole family can enjoy.

Is Lucerne or Gjovik Better for Couples?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Lucerne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Gjovik is a nice destination for couples. You'll find romantic hotels and many great museums or outdoor parks that couples will appreciate.


Is Lucerne or Gjovik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Gjovik is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Gjovik. There's at least one hostel around town, and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Gjovik Better for Students?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Gjovik is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

It's common for students to visit Gjovik. The location offers access to much of what Norway has to offer, making it a nice place to base yourself while you're studying.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

Is Lucerne or Gjovik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Lucerne and Gjovik both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Gjovik has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel through town.


Is Lucerne or Gjovik a more walkable city?

Lucerne
Gjovik

Lucerne and Gjovik are nice when it comes to walkability.

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable city. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

Gjovik is somewhat walkable. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas as well as walking paths just outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Lucerne Worth Visiting? and Is Gjovik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gjovik or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Gjovik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lucerne and Gjovik. In our opinion, Lucerne has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Lucerne than Gjovik. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gjovik than Lucerne 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 Gjovik.


  • How many days in Lucerne or Gjovik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lucerne 1-3 
    Gjovik 1-3

One day in Lucerne or Gjovik?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Gjovik, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Lucerne or Gjovik?

Lucerne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Gjovik, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Gjovik has to offer.


Five days in Lucerne or Gjovik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Gjovik is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Gjovik?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Lucerne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gjovik. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Gjovik. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Norway, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Gjovik or Lucerne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lucerne is $214, while the average daily cost in Gjovik is $75. 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 Lucerne and Gjovik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lucerne $137
    Gjovik $47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lucerne $274
    Gjovik $94
Compare Hotels in Lucerne and Gjovik

Looking for a hotel in Lucerne or Gjovik? 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 Lucerne


Hotels in Gjovik


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: Lucerne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lucerne $13
    Gjovik $5.91

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

Also for Lucerne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126

Is it cheaper to fly into Lucerne or Gjovik?

Prices for flights to both Gjovik and Lucerne 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
    Lucerne $62
    Gjovik $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lucerne $34
    Gjovik $6.56
Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    $34
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    $35

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lucerne.

  • A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $275
  • A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $534
  • Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Luzern: $563
  • Alpine Majesty:Luzern to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $821
  • Basel: Swiss Alps Glacier Express Train Ride & Lucerne Tour: $760
  • Best of Lucerne Walking Photography Tour: $179
  • Burgenstock Private Tour: Mt. Rigis & Lake of Lucerne Cruise: $585
  • City tour plus Lucerne: $95
  • Day Trip from Grindelwald First Mountain Adventure: $174
  • Day Trip to Swiss Villages from Lucerne - Small Group tour by Car: $200
  • Early morning tour: $213
  • Exploring Lucerne with Friends: A Local Experience ❤: $159

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lucerne $22
    Gjovik $5.91

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lucerne:

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


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

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


Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Gjovik?

Lucerne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Gjovik. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Gjovik, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Lucerne or Gjovik?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lucerne or Gjovik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Gjovik. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Gjovik in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Lucerne is a little warmer than Gjovik in the summer. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Gjovik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gjovik this time of the year. In Lucerne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gjovik during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Gjovik receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gjovik. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F) 
    Gjovik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Gjovik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Gjovik. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Gjovik for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Lucerne is much warmer than Gjovik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lucerne in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Gjovik averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Gjovik. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gjovik receives 86 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets less rain in October than Gjovik. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F) 
    Gjovik 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Gjovik in the Winter?

Both Gjovik and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Gjovik because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Gjovik can be very cold. Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In January, Lucerne is generally much warmer than Gjovik. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 3°C (37°F), and Gjovik fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Gjovik during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Gjovik receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Gjovik. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F) 
    Gjovik -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Lucerne or Gjovik in the Spring?

Both Gjovik and Lucerne during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Lucerne is much warmer than Gjovik in the spring. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Gjovik fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Gjovik. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gjovik receives 178 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than Gjovik. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F) 
    Gjovik 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Gjovik and Lucerne

Lucerne Gjovik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)