A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Lillehammer for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Lillehammer can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a livable, cultural, and historical port city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a adventure-filled, sporty, and natural city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lillehammer than Newcastle upon Tyne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lillehammer is better known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm, while Newcastle upon Tyne is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Lillehammer is well known for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics. Also, Lillehammer is famous for Lillehammer Olympic Park.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a skiing destination.

Lillehammer draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newcastle upon Tyne can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Newcastle upon Tyne and Lillehammer can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lillehammer makes for a great culinary experience. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

If you're looking for night time activities Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its historic old town. However, Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Newcastle upon Tyne to see the historical old town. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Lillehammer. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Newcastle upon Tyne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lillehammer. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a very popular place for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Lillehammer makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Newcastle upon Tyne and Lillehammer are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lillehammer. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

It's common for students to visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its public transit. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

While Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Lillehammer

Newcastle upon Tyne is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Newcastle upon Tyne on foot is easy. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.


For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lillehammer due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lillehammer.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Lillehammer 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.


  • How many days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newcastle upon Tyne 2-3 
    Lillehammer 2-4

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant port city of Newcastle upon Tyne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Lillehammer, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This port city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many people visit Lillehammer for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lillehammer, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

The high energy port city of Newcastle upon Tyne offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The destination of Lillehammer offers food and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Lillehammer. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers something for everyone. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Lillehammer or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Newcastle upon Tyne is £130, while the average daily cost in Lillehammer is £82. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Lillehammer in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newcastle upon Tyne £51
    Lillehammer £49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newcastle upon Tyne £102
    Lillehammer £98
Compare Hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne and Lillehammer

Looking for a hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer? 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 Newcastle upon Tyne


Hotels in Lillehammer


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: Newcastle upon Tyne Hotel Prices and Lillehammer Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £12
    Lillehammer £3.14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Newcastle upon Tyne:


  • Parking
    £1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle upon Tyne

Also for Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Club - Round-Trip Transfer: $65
  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Newcastle Airport to Newcastle Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

Prices for flights to both Lillehammer and Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne £68
    Lillehammer £28
Typical Food Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee (2)
    £4.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newcastle upon Tyne

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

  • The Ultimate Cheese & Wine Food Tour: $83
  • Newcastle Street Food Tour: $88
  • A Taste Of Newcastle Food Tour: $89
  • Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £17
    Lillehammer £13

Tours and Activities in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins: $5.20
  • Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket: $16
  • Private Bike Tour of Berwick: $19
  • Newcastle Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Sunderland by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Newcastle True Crime Walking Tour: $23
  • 1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour: $23
  • 1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle: $25
  • Guided Walks and Tours, Seahouses, Beadnell & Bamburgh: $29
  • Northumberland Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Halloween Special: Newcastle's Dark Side Walking Tour: $32
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne: $38

Tours and Activities in Lillehammer

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

  • Maihaugen Open-Air Museum, Lillehammer. Entry Ticket: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newcastle upon Tyne £9.43
    Lillehammer £9.96

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle upon Tyne:

  • Private Newcastle Pub Tour: $191
  • Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour: $203


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

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


Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Lillehammer?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne and Lillehammer, 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.