A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Murren vs. Tromso for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Murren or Tromso?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Murren and Tromso 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.

Murren

Murren is a breathtaking, stunning, and serene 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, skiing, and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a spectacular, remote, and one-of-a-kind town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Murren and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights


Is there more to do in Murren or Tromso?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Murren than Tromso, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Murren is better known for its skiing, museums, and hiking, while Tromso is more popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Murren is well known for its spectacular mountain views, authentically local atmosphere, and world class hiking and skiing. Also, Murren is famous for Lauterbrunnen Valley. Tromso is well known for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

How is Murren different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Murren or Tromso Better for Skiing?

Murren
Tromso

Murren is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Tromso is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Murren. If you're visiting in the winter, you're in luck because the scenery and the slopes are both amazing. The top of Schilthorn is quickly accessed from the gondola and ski lifts, and heading down you'll find some difficult runs along with easier slopes. Enjoy your apres-ski in the village with cozy drinks and a dinner of fondue. And with more time, you can easily get across the valley to the Grindelwald-Wengen ski area, too.

Tromso is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Murren or Tromso?

Murren
Tromso

Murren is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Murren. You don't visit this area for the museums, so if you're looking for an indoor activity on a rainy day, your options are limited.

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 Murren or Tromso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Murren
Tromso

Tromso is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Murren is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Tromso makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Murren has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. If you can afford the prices, you'll enjoy some great meals of fondue or local steak. There aren't many restaurants in town and some of the best are attached to the hotels. Those on a tight budget will be frustrated because cheap eats are hard to come by. You may as well pay a little more and enjoy a high quality, fine dining experience.

Is Murren or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Murren
Tromso

Tromso is a town with good options for nightlife. However, Murren is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Tromso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Murren doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet and residential town that is more about the daytime activities than the nightlife scene.


Is Murren or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Murren
Tromso

Murren is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Around Murren visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hiking trails pass right through the town, connecting the many alpine towns in the area. There are hikes for all levels, and each offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, which include Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch.

Tromso is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Murren or Tromso?

Murren
Tromso

Tromso is a town with a few options for shopping. However, Murren is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping in Murren can be found for those interested. Aside from a food market or two, there aren't many shops in town and prices for everything are a bit high.

Is Murren or Tromso Better for Families?

Murren
Tromso

Both Murren and Tromso are great to visit with kids.

Murren is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly activities are everywhere in this amazing town. Take the Allmendhubel Funicular Train and explore one of the coolest playgrounds ever! Family-friendly trails abound and outdoor adventures with spectacular views are fun for everyone.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tromso is very family-friendly. 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.


Is Murren or Tromso Better for Couples?

Murren
Tromso

Murren is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Murren is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This small town offers charming hotels, hidden viewpoints, and romantic hikes through the Alps. If you want to experience an authentic side to the Alps, then stay in this town and explore the many hiking trails in the area.

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 Murren or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Murren
Tromso

Tromso is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Murren is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tromso is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Murren is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in town so it's a bit difficult to stay in Murren as a backpacker. There are a number of charming hostels in the surrounding area though and they each have a unique local character.

Is Murren or Tromso Better for Students?

Murren
Tromso

Tromso is a town with good options for students. However, Murren is not popular with students.

Tromso is popular with students. 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.

Murren is not popular with students.


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

Murren
Tromso

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Murren and Tromso.

You'll find some public transit in Murren, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Train, cable car, and funicular are the only ways to reach this car-free town.

While Tromso offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Murren or Tromso a more walkable city?

Murren
Tromso

Murren is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Murren is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a small town with a very limited number of vehicles so it's best explored on foot. There are also many walking trails in the area.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Murren?

How long in Murren or Tromso?

Both Murren 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 Murren. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Murren, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tromso than Murren 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.


  • How many days in Murren or Tromso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Murren 2-4 
    Tromso 4-7

One day in Murren or Tromso?

Murren might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the small town destination of Tromso. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Murren or Tromso?

Murren 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 is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Murren or Tromso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Murren. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tromso. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Murren or Tromso?

Murren is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the one-of-a-kind small town of Tromso. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Tromso or Murren?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Murren is $407, while the average daily cost in Tromso is $112. 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 Murren and Tromso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Murren $217
    Tromso $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Murren $434
    Tromso $110
Compare Hotels in Murren and Tromso

Looking for a hotel in Murren or Tromso? 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 Murren


Hotels in Tromso


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: Murren Hotel Prices and Tromso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Murren $50
    Tromso $29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tromso

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

  • Highway to Heaven - Aurora Cable Car Transfer in Tromsø: $93
  • Private Airport and City Transfer in Tromso: $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Murren or Tromso?

Prices for flights to both Tromso and Murren 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
    Murren $150
    Tromso $38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Murren

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

  • Sunset hike with outdoor Cheese Fondue dinner: $167

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

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

  • 3 Hours Private Walking Food Tour in Norway: $167
  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $173
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $186
  • Fjord Cruise Expedition with Dinner,Tromso: $206
  • Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner: $250
  • Aurora Borealis Cruise with Dinner in Tromso: $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Murren $59
    Tromso $17

Tours and Activities in Murren

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

  • Private Speedriding Tandem Experience in Switzerland: $279
  • Sledding adventure with Chocolate degustation: $129
  • Swiss countryside tour in free-cars town: $123

Tours and Activities in Tromso

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

  • Touring-Trekking Bicycle Rental in Tromso - 1 to 2 Days: $46
  • Experience the Full Steam Storytelling Package: $46
  • Tromso Embrace the Spirits of the North Tasting Experience: $63
  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $74
  • Experience Cross-Country Adventure in Tromsø: $93
  • Northern Lights Walking Tour: $111
  • Fjord & History Cruise: $111
  • Tromso Sightseeing with E-Bike: $112
  • Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso: $117
  • History Fjordcruise Around The Isle Of Tromso - Luxury Catamaran: $121
  • From Tromso all- inclusive Midnight sun cruise by Boat: $126
  • Puppy Training Experience at a Husky Farm in Tromso: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Murren $19
    Tromso $8.36


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


Which is Bigger, Murren or Tromso?

Tromso has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Murren. When comparing the sizes of Murren 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.