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

Should you visit Palermo or Oslo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Oslo 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a colorful, diverse, and dynamic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Oslo

Oslo is a park-filled, green, and clean city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Palermo and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Oslo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo. Although Palermo and Oslo are about the same size, Palermo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palermo is better known for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Oslo is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Oslo is more touristy than Palermo and is known for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral.

How is Palermo different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Oslo is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and 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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Palermo 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, Palermo makes for a great culinary experience. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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 Palermo or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

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

Palermo has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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 Palermo or Oslo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Oslo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Oslo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Oslo Better for Beaches?

Palermo is notable for its beaches. However, Oslo is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Palermo. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Oslo is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Oslo?

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

Palermo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo or Oslo Better for Families?

Oslo is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Oslo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Palermo is a very family-friendly destination. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

Is Palermo or Oslo Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Oslo are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Palermo is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

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

Is Palermo or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Oslo are notable destinations for backpackers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Palermo or Oslo Better for Students?

Oslo is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Oslo. 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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

Oslo is very popular for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Oslo has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Oslo a more walkable city?

Palermo and Oslo both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

Oslo is very walkable. 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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Oslo?

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

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

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

One day in Palermo or Oslo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because Oslo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Palermo or Oslo?

Palermo is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Because Oslo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oslo has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Oslo?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the colorful destination of Palermo. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Oslo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oslo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or Oslo?

The colorful city of Palermo offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oslo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Oslo. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, 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 Palermo and Oslo, we can see that Oslo is more expensive. And not only is Palermo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palermo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palermo 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 Oslo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oslo than you might in Palermo.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Oslo?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Oslo. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo or Oslo?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Palermo or Oslo in the Summer?

Both Oslo and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Oslo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Palermo is a little warmer than Oslo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palermo in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Oslo averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Oslo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Oslo. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Oslo in the Autumn?

Both Oslo and Palermo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Palermo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

In October, Palermo is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Oslo. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Oslo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Oslo. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Oslo. Palermo is much warmer than Oslo in the winter. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Oslo fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives more rain than Oslo. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Oslo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Oslo. Many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Oslo in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Palermo is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palermo in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Oslo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Oslo. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oslo and Palermo