A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palma de Mallorca vs. Lillehammer for Nightlife, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer, 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.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a cultural, historic, and beautiful island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a sporty, natural, and adventure-filled city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Palma de Mallorca and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palma de Mallorca. Although Palma de Mallorca and Lillehammer are both popular with visitors, Palma de Mallorca has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palma de Mallorca is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer is known for its skiing, museums, hiking, and small town charm. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Lillehammer and is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. It is also home to the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Lillehammer is popular for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Palma de Mallorca is not a skiing destination.

Lillehammer offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. 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.

Palma de Mallorca is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

Lillehammer is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Lillehammer is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Lillehammer offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palma de Mallorca. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lillehammer. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

People head to Palma de Mallorca just to party. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for live music. However, Lillehammer is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Palma de Mallorca. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Lillehammer is not a live music destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its resorts. However, Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

Palma de Mallorca is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palma de Mallorca is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palma de Mallorca has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Palma de Mallorca are among the best in the world. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for its Old Town?

Palma de Mallorca is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Palma de Mallorca to see the historical old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Palma de Mallorca and Lillehammer.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Palma de Mallorca. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Lillehammer offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca and Lillehammer are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Lillehammer is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Lillehammer is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Palma de Mallorca. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

Lillehammer is a good island to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Lillehammer is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Palma de Mallorca and Lillehammer.

Palma de Mallorca has some public transit options. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

You'll find some public transit in Lillehammer, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Palma de Mallorca and Lillehammer are good when it comes to walkability.

Palma de Mallorca is somewhat walkable. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

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 Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting? and Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Palma de Mallorca?

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Palma de Mallorca due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lillehammer.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the stunning island of Palma de Mallorca. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Lillehammer, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Palma de Mallorca. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums and skiing around the adventure-filled city of Lillehammer, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the historic island of Palma de Mallorca. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Lillehammer. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Palma de Mallorca. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lillehammer is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, 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 Palma de Mallorca and Lillehammer, we can see that Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca Expensive? and Is Lillehammer Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Lillehammer?

Palma de Mallorca has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca 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.