Which place is cheaper, Oslo or Madrid?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Madrid or Oslo?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Madrid and Oslo 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.
Madrid
Madrid is a authentic, cultural, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.
Oslo
Oslo is a progressive, park-filled, and green city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.
Madrid and Oslo: Pros and Cons
Madrid
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Fun shopping
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
Oslo
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Less popular for food
- Less popular for shopping
Is there more to do in Madrid or Oslo?
Travelers will usually find more to do in Madrid than Oslo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Madrid is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Oslo is known for its museums. Madrid is popular for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. It is also home to The Prado Museum. Oslo is popular for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports.
How is Madrid different from Oslo?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Oslo and Madrid. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Madrid or Oslo?
Madrid
Oslo
Oslo is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.
You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Oslo. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.
Madrid offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.
Is the Food Better in Madrid or Oslo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Madrid
Oslo
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Madrid is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.
Oslo has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.
Is Madrid or Oslo Better for Nightlife?
Madrid
Oslo
Madrid is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.
Madrid has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.
With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Oslo. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.
Is Madrid or Oslo Better for Music?
Madrid
Oslo
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Oslo is not a live music destination.
Madrid is a world class music destination. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.
Oslo is not a live music destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Madrid or Oslo?
Madrid
Oslo
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.
Madrid is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.
If you're looking to go shopping, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.
Is Madrid or Oslo Better for Families?
Madrid
Oslo
Oslo is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
Oslo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.
Madrid is a very kid-friendly city. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.
Is Madrid or Oslo Better for Couples?
Madrid
Oslo
Madrid is notable for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.
Madrid is a very popular place to visit for couples. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.
Oslo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.
Is Madrid or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Madrid
Oslo
Madrid is notable for backpackers. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.
Backpackers come from all over to visit Madrid. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.
Oslo is a good city to visit for backpackers. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.
Is Madrid or Oslo Better for Students?
Madrid
Oslo
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.
Madrid is a great destination for students. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.
Students come from all over to stay in Oslo. The University of Oslo has an excellent reputation and welcomes many foreign students every year. The school does a lot to make sure international students feel at home here.
Is Madrid or Oslo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Madrid
Oslo
Madrid and Oslo both offer first-rate public transit to get you around.
Madrid has a great public transit system. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.
Public transit in Oslo is top-notch. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.
Is Madrid or Oslo a more walkable city?
Madrid
Oslo
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.
It is easy to get around Madrid on foot. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.
Oslo is a very walkable city. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Madrid Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Oslo or Madrid?
How long in Madrid or Oslo?
In either Madrid or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Madrid has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Madrid than Oslo. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Madrid, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.
Families should spend more time in Oslo than Madrid. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Oslo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Madrid than Oslo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Madrid that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Madrid than Oslo 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 Madrid.
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How many days in Madrid or Oslo? Ideal Length of StayMadrid 2-5Oslo 1-5
One day in Madrid or Oslo?
Madrid is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.
Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the big city destination of Oslo. One day is often enough time to do most activities.
A weekend in Madrid or Oslo?
Madrid is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
Oslo 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.
Five days in Madrid or Oslo?
Madrid is a diverse big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oslo. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
A week in Madrid or Oslo?
The authentic city of Madrid offers shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.
Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the clean big city of Oslo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayMadrid €136Oslo €127
The average daily cost (per person) in Madrid is €136, while the average daily cost in Oslo is €127. 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 Madrid and Oslo in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personMadrid €77Oslo €76
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomMadrid €154Oslo €152
Compare Hotels in Madrid and Oslo
Looking for a hotel in Madrid or Oslo? 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.
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: Madrid Hotel Prices and Oslo Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Madrid €19Oslo €22
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Madrid are as follows:
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Taxi Ride€26
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Madrid
Also for Madrid, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Madrid Barajas Airport: Transfer to/from Atocha Bus Station: $7.45
- Private transfer from Atocha Station to Madrid city center: $22
- Hotel Madrid City Private Transfer To Madrid Barajas Airport: $26
- Private One-way Airport Transfer Madrid To Madrid Airport: $27
- Private One-way Airport Transfer Madrid Airport To Madrid: $27
- Private transfer: Barajas Airport (MAD) to Madrid City Center: $29
- Madrid Barajas Airport Private Transfer To Alcobendas: $32
- Private Arrival Transfer from Barajas Airport: $40
- Private Transfer: Madrid to Madrid Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD): $42
- Private Transfer From Madrid Barajas Airport to Madrid: $44
- Madrid Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $45
- Madrid City Center: Private Transfer to Madrid Airport: $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:
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Tram Ticket€6.17
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:
- Oslo Airport (OSL): Private Transfer to Oslo Cruise Port: $484
- Private Transfer Oslo Lufthavn Airport OSL to Hemsedal: $294
- Transfer Between Oslo City Center & Gardermoen Airport: $254
- Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Van: $237
- Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Van: $229
- Round-Trip Private Transfer Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City by Business Car: $227
- Trondheim Private Transfer from Trondheim (TRD) Airport to City centre: $213
- Oslo Private Transfer from Oslo city centre to Oslo airport: $204
- Oslo Lufthavn Airport (OSL) to Trysil - Arrival Private Transfer: $186
- Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) to Oslo City Center - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $181
- Oslo Private Airport Transfer Service || English Speaking Driver: $180
- Private Oslo Airport and City Transfers: $163
Is it cheaper to fly into Madrid or Oslo?
Prices for flights to both Oslo and Madrid 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
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Food Meals for one dayMadrid €34Oslo €28
Typical Food Prices in Madrid
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Madrid:
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Coffee€2.00
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Ice Cream€3.00
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Kebabs (for 2)€16
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Croissant€1.50
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Lunch at Airport (for 2)€16
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Madrid
For Madrid, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Tipsy Tapas Food Tour with Drinks and Food: $27
- Drunken Tapas Food Tour with Dinner in Madrid: $32
- Tapas Dinner Party Food Tour with Guide: $33
- Tapas Crawl Food Tour with 6 Tapas and 4 Drinks: $35
- Torres Bermejas Flamenco Show in Madrid with Dinner, Tapas or Drink: $38
- Madrid Tipsy Tapas Guided Food Tour with Dinner: $42
- Paella and Sangria Workshop with Dinner and Drinks: $42
- Madrid Tipsy Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $42
- San Miguel Market and Street Food Tour: $52
- The Authentic Morning Madrid's Food Tour: $59
- Zarzuela Opera and Dinner at La Castafiore Restaurant in Madrid: $60
- Opera and Zarzuela Show and Dinner: $61
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oslo
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Oslo.
- Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner: $58
- Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $74
- Christmas Street Food Tour with Akevitt and Christmas beer : $112
- 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $117
- Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $120
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Madrid €34Oslo €18
Tours and Activities in Madrid
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Madrid.
- Madrid Essential: Free Walking City Tour: $1.07
- First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
- Madrid Mountains Free Walking Tour: $3.26
- Madrid Old Town & Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $4.26
- Escape Game and Tour: $4.26
- Secrets of Madrids Walking Tour: $4.26
- Marvels of Madrid Walking Tour: $4.26
- Wonders of Madrid Walking Tour: $4.26
- 2 Hour Madrid Walking Tour : $4.35
- Wonders of Madrid Walking Tour : $4.35
- Ticket Entrance to the Madrid Nougat Museum: $5.33
- Mapfre Foundation Entry Ticket: $5.33
Tours and Activities in Oslo
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Oslo are as follows:
- 2 Hour Sea Kayak Tour on Oslofjord from Central Oslo: $93
- 2-Hour Private Tour in Oslo, Norway: $196
- 2.hr Oslo Kayak Tour “Fjord City”: $91
- 2hr Retro Motorcycle Sidecar Oslo Highlights Tour: $214
- 3- Hour Kayak Tour on the Oslofjord: $107
- 4 Hours Island Hopping Tour in Oslo: $48
- 4 hours Winter View of the Oslofjord Walk Tour : $188
- Akerselva River Kayak Tour; An Urban Paddling Adventure: $91
- Akerselva River Tour : $93
- An Oslo Waterfront Stroll: Self-paced Audio Tour: $7.99
- Authentic Oslo bike tour: $44
- BIKING OSLO PRIVATE EXPERIENCE Upto 8 Participants Max: $209
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayMadrid €20Oslo €10
Typical Alcohol Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Madrid are as follows:
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Beer€5.00
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Drinks and Tapas (for 2)€13
Sample the Local Flavors in Madrid
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Madrid:
- Pub Crawl with Tapas and VIP Club Entry: $9.59
- Madrid Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entrance: $11
- Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra: $12
- Pub crawl & Party Tour Madrid: $14
- Pub Crawl Madrid Running since 2005 Bar Exploration: $16
- Guided Pub Crawl Madrid Experience and Club Entry: $16
- Pub Crawl Madrid-The Original since 2005-Shots-Fun-Clubs-Dance: $16
- Pub Crawl Madrid: $19
- Wine Tasting near Plaza Mayor: $22
- Pub Crawl Madrid: $22
- Wine Tasting Experience with 4 Spanish Wines: $26
- Wine Tour with tasting in the Natural Park of La Mata: $38
When comparing the travel costs between Madrid and Oslo, we can see that Madrid is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Madrid Expensive? and Is Oslo Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Madrid or Oslo?
Madrid has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Oslo. When comparing the sizes of Madrid and Oslo, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.