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

Should you visit Lucerne or Tromso?

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 Tromso. 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 historic, vibrant, and scenic 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a one-of-a-kind, spectacular, and remote town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Tromso?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lucerne. Although Lucerne and Tromso are about the same size, Lucerne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lucerne is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Tromso attracts visitors for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Lucerne is famous for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge. Tromso is famous for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lucerne is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Lucerne. 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.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.

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

Tromso 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.

Tromso has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

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 Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Lucerne has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Lucerne or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Is Lucerne or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Tromso is great for hiking. However, Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Tromso for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Tromso?

Lucerne is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Lucerne or Tromso Better for Families?

Tromso is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tromso. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Lucerne or Tromso Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Tromso both very good destinations for a couple.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Tromso is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

Is Lucerne or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

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 Tromso Better for Students?

Tromso 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 Tromso. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

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 Tromso Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lucerne and Tromso 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.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Lucerne or Tromso a more walkable city?

Tromso is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Tromso is a very walkable destination. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Tromso?

Both Lucerne and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Lucerne. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

Couples should spend more time in Lucerne than Tromso. 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 Tromso 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 Tromso.

One day in Lucerne or Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Lucerne or Tromso?

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.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Lucerne or Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tromso has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural 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 Tromso. Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lucerne and Tromso, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Tromso much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tromso would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tromso 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 Tromso.

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Tromso?

Lucerne has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tromso because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lucerne is much warmer than Tromso in the summer. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Tromso. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Tromso. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lucerne or Tromso in the Autumn?

Both Tromso and Lucerne during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the autumn. In the autumn, Lucerne is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lucerne in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Tromso averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the autumn, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun.

Tromso gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lucerne usually gets less rain in October than Tromso. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Tromso. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tromso for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. It's quite cold in Lucerne in the winter. In January, Lucerne is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 3°C (37°F), and Tromso fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Tromso. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lucerne or Tromso in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Tromso. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Tromso in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Tromso can get quite cold in the spring. Lucerne is much warmer than Tromso in the spring. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the spring, Lucerne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than Tromso. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Tromso and Lucerne