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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo?

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 Oslo 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Oslo

Oslo is a green, clean, and progressive city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Oslo: Pros and Cons

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

You'll generally find more things to do in Oslo than Newcastle upon Tyne. Oslo is bigger than Newcastle upon Tyne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Oslo is better known for its big city activities, while Newcastle upon Tyne is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Oslo is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne and is popular for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. Also, Oslo is famous for The Royal Palace. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Oslo and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oslo can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Newcastle upon Tyne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne is notable for its historic old town. However, Oslo 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.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo?

Newcastle upon Tyne is notable for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city 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.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo Better for Families?

Oslo is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Oslo is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

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 Oslo Better for Couples?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Oslo are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. 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.

Oslo is a nice destination for couples. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne and Oslo 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 Oslo. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo Better for Students?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Oslo are excellent destinations for students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. 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.

Oslo is a great port city to visit as a student. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oslo is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Oslo is top-notch. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an amazing port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne on foot. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Oslo is a very walkable port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo?

In either Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than Newcastle upon Tyne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

Families should spend more time in Oslo than Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne than Oslo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Newcastle upon Tyne that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Each neighborhood in Oslo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. This port city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Oslo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oslo, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo?

The livable port city of Newcastle upon Tyne offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Oslo. 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.

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

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 Oslo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

When is the best time to visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Oslo. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Oslo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Oslo averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oslo. In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Oslo. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Oslo. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo in the Autumn?

Both Oslo and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Oslo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally a little warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 10°C (49°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Oslo during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Oslo. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Newcastle upon Tyne during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Oslo can be very cold during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne can get quite cold in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne is much warmer than Oslo in the winter. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Oslo fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle upon Tyne. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Oslo. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Oslo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Oslo. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Oslo because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne is a little warmer than Oslo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Oslo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Oslo during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Oslo. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oslo and Newcastle upon Tyne