A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Bergen for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Saaremaa or Bergen?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Bergen, 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.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a traditional, quiet, and calm island. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and beaches.

Bergen

Bergen is a nostalgic, friendly, and laid back city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saaremaa and Bergen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Bergen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bergen. Although Saaremaa and Bergen are popular destinations, Bergen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bergen is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Saaremaa attracts visitors for its food, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bergen is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty. It is also well known for Bryggen. Saaremaa is famous for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saaremaa or Bergen?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Bergen is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa 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 Bergen. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Saaremaa or Bergen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saaremaa
Bergen

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

Dining out in Saaremaa is an experience not to be missed. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Saaremaa or Bergen Better for Nightlife?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Bergen is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Bergen has a few options to choose from. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Bergen Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Saaremaa is a popular place for the beach. However, Bergen is not a beach destination.

Saaremaa is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Bergen is not a beach destination.


Is Saaremaa or Bergen Better for its Old Town?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Bergen is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Bergen has an old town worth visiting. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Bergen?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Bergen is great for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bergen. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Bergen Better for Families?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Bergen is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bergen. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.


Is Saaremaa or Bergen Better for Couples?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Saaremaa and Bergen are both very good to visit as a couple.

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Bergen is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

Is Saaremaa or Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saaremaa
Bergen

For backpackers, both Saaremaa and Bergen are nice places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Saaremaa. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Bergen is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Saaremaa or Bergen Better for Students?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Bergen is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Bergen. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.


Is Saaremaa or Bergen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Bergen is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Bergen can get you to most places easily. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Bergen a more walkable city?

Saaremaa
Bergen

Bergen is great for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

Bergen is a very walkable destination. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Saaremaa Worth Visiting? and Is Bergen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergen or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Bergen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saaremaa and Bergen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saaremaa than in Bergen. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bergen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bergen than Saaremaa 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 Bergen.


  • How many days in Saaremaa or Bergen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saaremaa 2-4 
    Bergen 1-3

One day in Saaremaa or Bergen?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Bergen offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Saaremaa or Bergen?

Saaremaa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Bergen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bergen, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Bergen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saaremaa. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bergen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Bergen?

Saaremaa is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bergen is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Bergen or Saaremaa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saaremaa is €101, while the average daily cost in Bergen is €102. 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 Saaremaa and Bergen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saaremaa 36
    Bergen 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saaremaa 72
    Bergen 126
Compare Hotels in Saaremaa and Bergen

Looking for a hotel in Saaremaa or Bergen? 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 Saaremaa


Hotels in Bergen


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: Bergen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saaremaa 47
    Bergen 9.03
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Saaremaa:


  • Rental Car and Gas for a Day
    34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergen:

  • From Private Transfer to Gudvangen: $455
  • From Private Transfer to Voss: $371
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Solstrand Hotel transfer: $297
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Panorama Hotel & Resort transfer: $293
  • Private Bergen Airport Transfer to or from Bergen City: $257
  • TRANSFER, LUXURY VAN 1-7 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $239
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bergen City to Bergen Airport BGO by Minibus: $201
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen City by Minibus: $201
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $198
  • TRANSFER, LUXURY CAR 1-3 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $176
  • Private Transfer to Airport, City or Cruise Port: $157
  • TRANSFER, STANDARD, 1-7 PAX: Bergen city transfer: $143

Is it cheaper to fly into Saaremaa or Bergen?

Prices for flights to both Bergen and Saaremaa 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
    Saaremaa 37
    Bergen 29
Typical Food Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saaremaa:


  • Salmon
    1.28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergen

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bergen.

  • Guided Fishing Tour with Outdoor Cooking: $185

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saaremaa 21
    Bergen 15

Tours and Activities in Bergen

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

  • 3-Hour Private Norwegian Hiking Experience with Local Guide: $124
  • 3-Hour Private Tour Hiked through the Bergen Mountains: $146
  • Authentic Private Walking Tour of Bergen: $88
  • Bergen 3-Hour Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Bergen City 2-Hour Private Tour by Electric Car: $76
  • Bergen Fjord Cruise to Alversund Streams - All year: $42
  • Bergen Fjord Experience Aboard Viking-style Ship: $86
  • Bergen Guided Tour by Minibus (with Photo stops) & Bryggen Walk: $62
  • Bergen Private Walking Tour: $299
  • Bergen Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $296
  • Bergen Shore Excursion: Bergen Walking Tour: $149
  • Bergen University District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saaremaa 11
    Bergen 6.43


When comparing the travel costs between Saaremaa and Bergen, we can see that Bergen is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Bergen?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Bergen, 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 Saaremaa or Bergen?

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 Saaremaa or Bergen in the Summer?

Both Bergen and Saaremaa during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bergen for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Saaremaa is a little warmer than Bergen in the summer. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Bergen fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saaremaa usually gets less rain in July than Bergen. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saaremaa 17°C (62°F) 
    Bergen 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Bergen in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Bergen. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bergen because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Saaremaa is around the same temperature as Bergen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saaremaa in October average around 8°C (47°F), and Bergen averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Bergen. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saaremaa 8°C (47°F) 
    Bergen 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Bergen in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Bergen. The winter months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bergen this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bergen in the winter. The weather in Saaremaa can be very cold. In January, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around -3°C (27°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Bergen. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saaremaa -3°C (27°F) 
    Bergen 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Bergen in the Spring?

Both Bergen and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bergen for the small town charm.

It's quite cold in Saaremaa in the spring. Saaremaa is much colder than Bergen in the spring. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 4°C (38°F) in April, and Bergen fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Bergen. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saaremaa 4°C (38°F) 
    Bergen 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Bergen and Saaremaa

Saaremaa Bergen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Feb -3°C (26°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar -1°C (30°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Apr 4°C (38°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in)
Oct 8°C (47°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in)
Dec 0°C (32°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in)