A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paros vs. Lillehammer for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Paros or Lillehammer?

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 Paros and Lillehammer. 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.

Paros

Paros is a diverse, stunning, and breathtaking island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Paros and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Lillehammer?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Lillehammer are popular destinations, Paros has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paros is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Paros is more touristy than Lillehammer and is popular for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also well known for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Paros different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Paros or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Paros is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Lillehammer. 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.

Paros is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paros or Lillehammer?

Paros is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Paros can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Is the Food Better in Paros or Lillehammer? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paros is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paros is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

Lillehammer has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Paros or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Paros is well known for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Paros is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

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 Paros or Lillehammer Better for Resorts?

Paros is well known for its resorts. However, Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

Paros is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Lillehammer Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Paros to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Lillehammer Better for Beaches?

Paros is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Paros are among the best in the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Paros 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.

Paros is a good destination for hiking. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Lillehammer?

Paros is well known for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Paros is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Paros or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Both Paros and Lillehammer are great family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

Lillehammer is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Paros or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Paros is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Paros has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

Lillehammer is a great island if you're traveling as 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.

Is Paros or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros 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 Paros. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

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

Is Paros or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Lillehammer is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Paros 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.

Paros is not popular with students.

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

Paros is well known for its public transit. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Paros. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

While Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Paros or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Paros and Lillehammer are nice when it comes to walkability.

Paros is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable island. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

For even more information, also check out Is Paros Worth Visiting? and Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Paros?

How long in Paros or Lillehammer?

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

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

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

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

One day in Paros or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the striking island of Paros. 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.

In Lillehammer, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this adventure-filled destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paros or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Paros. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lillehammer. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paros or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the breathtaking island of Paros. 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.

Lillehammer is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lillehammer. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Paros. 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.

You'll find museums and skiing around the natural destination of Lillehammer. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, 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 Paros and Lillehammer, we can see that Paros 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 Paros would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paros 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 Paros Expensive? and Is Lillehammer Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paros or Lillehammer?

Lillehammer has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros 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.