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

Should you visit Oslo or Philadelphia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oslo or Philadelphia, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Oslo

Oslo is a green, clean, and progressive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, museums, and nightlife.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Oslo and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oslo or Philadelphia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Oslo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Oslo is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Oslo different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oslo or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Philadelphia that are not to be missed. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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.

Is Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is notable for theatre. However, Oslo is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Oslo is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Oslo or Philadelphia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Philadelphia 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, Philadelphia makes for a great culinary experience. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

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

Philadelphia has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Philadelphia is notable for live music. However, Oslo is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Oslo is not a live music destination.

Is Oslo or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Philadelphia to see the historical old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oslo or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is notable for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal 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 Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Oslo does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Oslo does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Oslo does not offer Christmas markets.

Philadelphia has Christmas markets worth visiting. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Oslo does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Oslo is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Oslo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Philadelphia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Oslo and Philadelphia are both nice to visit as a couple.

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

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Is Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Oslo and Philadelphia are nice destinations for backpackers.

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.

Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Oslo and Philadelphia are both superb destinations for students and younger travelers.

Oslo is a great 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Is Oslo or Philadelphia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oslo is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Oslo has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Is Oslo or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Oslo Worth Visiting? and Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Oslo?

How long in Oslo or Philadelphia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Oslo and Philadelphia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than in Philadelphia. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Oslo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Philadelphia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.

One day in Oslo or Philadelphia?

Each neighborhood in Oslo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Visitors enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Philadelphia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Oslo or Philadelphia?

Oslo is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. 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.

Five days in Oslo or Philadelphia?

Each neighborhood in Oslo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find live music and food around the diverse big city of Philadelphia. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Oslo or Philadelphia?

Oslo is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The cultural city of Philadelphia offers food and shopping. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Oslo and Philadelphia, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Oslo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Oslo is in Europe and Philadelphia is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Philadelphia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Philadelphia 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 Oslo Expensive? and Is Philadelphia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Oslo or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Oslo. When comparing the sizes of Oslo and Philadelphia, 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 Oslo or Philadelphia?

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 Oslo or Philadelphia in the Summer?

Both Philadelphia and Oslo during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Oslo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In the summer, Oslo is cooler than Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Oslo in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Philadelphia averages at about 77°F (25°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Oslo. In the summer, Oslo often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Oslo gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Oslo usually gets less rain in July than Philadelphia. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oslo or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Oslo and Philadelphia. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Oslo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Oslo is generally much colder than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Oslo average around 7°C (45°F), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. Oslo usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during autumn. Oslo gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Oslo usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Oslo or Philadelphia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Oslo as well as Philadelphia. Many travelers come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Philadelphia can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Oslo. Oslo is much colder than Philadelphia in the winter. The daily temperature in Oslo averages around -4°C (25°F) in January, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Oslo often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Oslo gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun.

Oslo usually gets less rain in January than Philadelphia. Oslo gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oslo or Philadelphia in the Spring?

Both Philadelphia and Oslo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Oslo in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Oslo is much colder than Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Oslo in April average around 6°C (42°F), and Philadelphia averages at about 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. Oslo usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during spring. Oslo gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Oslo usually receives less rain than Philadelphia. Oslo gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Oslo