A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Odense vs. Lofoten Islands for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Odense or Lofoten Islands?

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 Odense and Lofoten Islands. 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.

Odense

And you can't forget about the food.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a charming, quaint, and spectacular archipelago. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Odense and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Odense or Lofoten Islands?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lofoten Islands. Although Odense and Lofoten Islands are both popular with visitors, Lofoten Islands has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lofoten Islands is more touristy than Odense and is known for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. It is also home to The Svolvær Goat Trail. Odense is popular for

How is Odense different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Odense or Lofoten Islands?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Odense does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lofoten Islands. The charming towns often have local museums that highlight the region's history and culture. The Lofoten War Memorial Museum is in the town of Svolvaer. The Lofotr Viking Museum is on the island of Vestvågøy and the Lofoten Museum is in Kabelvåg.

Odense does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Odense or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Odense is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Lofoten Islands is an experience not to be missed. Fish and lamb are both common at most restaurants in the area. The food is fresh, delicious, and filling, and although it's expensive, it's also high quality and uniquely local.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Odense. You'll find local restaurants serving local favorites such as smoked salmon. You'll also find burger joints and international options such as sushi.

Is Odense or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a moderate archipelago for its evening party scene. However, Odense is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Lofoten Islands specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Odense is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Odense or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is notable for the beach. However, Odense is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Lofoten Islands for it's beautiful beaches. Most people don't think of the Arctic when they think about beaches, but these islands have long sandy beaches that meet blue waters. They're tucked in between valleys and mountains and offer a surreal Arctic landscape.

Odense is not a beach destination.


Is Odense or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Odense does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lofoten Islands. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Odense does not have a historic old town.

Is Odense or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Odense is not a hiking destination.

Lofoten Islands is well-known for its hiking and trekking. It's remote setting and dramatic scenery lead to some truly breathtaking hikes. You'll find trails that pass by beautiful beaches, climb spectacular peaks, and wander through the beautiful countryside. Reinebringen, Horseid Beach, and Bunes Beach are among the favorite hikes in the area.

Odense is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Odense or Lofoten Islands?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Lofoten Islands to go shopping. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.

Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Odense or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Both Odense and Lofoten Islands are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Odense is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. As the home of Hans Christian Andersen, this town is a child's playhouse. You can visit the H.C. Andersen House, which will bring his fairytale mind to life. The city also has more than 200 playgrounds, an amazing zoo, and the Funen Village, which is an open air museum. There's also a castle to explore and paddle boating on the water.

Lofoten Islands is a very family-friendly destination. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids will enjoy.

Is Odense or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is terrific for couples. However, Odense is a mediocre city for romance.

Lofoten Islands is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning views, dramatic fjords, and world class outdoor adventures make this an amazing romantic destination for couples. If you enjoy the outdoors and adventure activities, then there is no shortage of opportunities to explore here.

Odense is not the best destination for a couple to visit. It's a charming city with a lot of green space and paddle boating on the water, but it lacks some of the romance that you find in many European cities.

Is Odense or Lofoten Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is notable for backpackers. However, Odense is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lofoten Islands is a very popular archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Odense is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel or two in town, but most backpackers don't make the time to visit this off-the-beaten-path destination.


Is Odense or Lofoten Islands Better for Students?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Odense is very good for students. However, Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Odense is a good city to visit for students. It's a charming and friendly city that makes a fun place to learn and live. There's a fascinating culture and a number of things to do.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Is Odense or Lofoten Islands Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a moderate archipelago for its public transit. However, Odense does not have public transit.

Public transit is generally limited in Lofoten Islands. There are buses and ferries, but the service is limited, although reliable.

Odense does not have public transit.

Is Odense or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Odense
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is not a good place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Odense is not a walkable destination.

Lofoten Islands is not a walkable archipelago. Although the area is filled with hikes, you really must have a car if you hope to explore it with flexibility and accessibility.

Odense is not a walkable destination.


Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Odense?

How long in Odense or Lofoten Islands?

Both Odense and Lofoten Islands have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lofoten Islands than in Odense. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Odense, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Odense 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 Lofoten Islands.


  • How many days in Odense or Lofoten Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Odense 2-3 
    Lofoten Islands 4-7

One day in Odense or Lofoten Islands?

The destination of Odense offers food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lofoten Islands. 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 Odense or Lofoten Islands?

The city of Odense offers food. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Lofoten Islands is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Odense or Lofoten Islands?

Odense is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lofoten Islands. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Odense or Lofoten Islands?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Odense. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dramatic destination of Lofoten Islands. This archipelago 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 2-Week Tours from Copenhagen, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.


Which place is cheaper, Lofoten Islands or Odense?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Odense is $163, while the average daily cost in Lofoten Islands is $54. 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 Odense and Lofoten Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Odense $81
    Lofoten Islands $7.24
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Odense $162
    Lofoten Islands $14
Compare Hotels in Odense and Lofoten Islands

Looking for a hotel in Odense or Lofoten Islands? 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 Odense


Hotels in Lofoten Islands


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: Odense Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Odense $44
    Lofoten Islands $11

Is it cheaper to fly into Odense or Lofoten Islands?

Prices for flights to both Lofoten Islands and Odense 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
    Odense $52
    Lofoten Islands $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Odense $30
    Lofoten Islands $25

Tours and Activities in Odense

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Odense are as follows:

  • River Cruise on the Odense River: $16
  • GoBoat Self-drive Boat Tour: $58
  • Inspiring Odense - Walking Tour for Couples: $488
  • Christmas Charms in Odense - Walking Tour: $596

Tours and Activities in Lofoten Islands

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Lofoten Islands are as follows:

  • Small-Group Cultural Walking Tour of Skrova: $33
  • Winter Half Day Kayak Tour: $94
  • Sea Kayak Guided Tours on Skrova Island: $118
  • From Leknes port: Special Summer Guided Tour of Lofoten : $129

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Odense $22
    Lofoten Islands $0.73


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

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