A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Lofoten Islands for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands, 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 quiet, calm, and peaceful island. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a dramatic, remote, and pristine archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Saaremaa and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lofoten Islands. Although Saaremaa and Lofoten Islands are both popular with visitors, Lofoten Islands has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lofoten Islands is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saaremaa is known for its small town charm. Lofoten Islands is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. It is also home to The Svolvær Goat Trail. Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lofoten Islands 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 Lofoten Islands?

Lofoten Islands 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 Lofoten Islands. The charming towns often have local museums that highlight the region's history and culture. The Lofoten War Memorial Museum is in the town of Svolvaer. The Lofotr Viking Museum is on the island of Vestvågøy and the Lofoten Museum is in Kabelvåg.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Lofoten Islands can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Saaremaa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lofoten Islands makes for a great culinary experience. Fish and lamb are both common at most restaurants in the area. The food is fresh, delicious, and filling, and although it's expensive, it's also high quality and uniquely local.

Is Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Lofoten Islands is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

Lofoten Islands doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

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 Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Lofoten Islands is great for the beach. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Lofoten Islands. Most people don't think of the Arctic when they think about beaches, but these islands have long sandy beaches that meet blue waters. They're tucked in between valleys and mountains and offer a surreal Arctic landscape.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saaremaa. 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.

Is Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Lofoten Islands is great for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Lofoten Islands to see the historical old town. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Lofoten Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for hiking. However, Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Lofoten Islands draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. It's remote setting and dramatic scenery lead to some truly breathtaking hikes. You'll find trails that pass by beautiful beaches, climb spectacular peaks, and wander through the beautiful countryside. Reinebringen, Horseid Beach, and Bunes Beach are among the favorite hikes in the area.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands?

Lofoten Islands is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lofoten Islands has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Lofoten Islands 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 Lofoten Islands. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids will enjoy.

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 Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Lofoten Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for couples. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Lofoten Islands has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stunning views, dramatic fjords, and world class outdoor adventures make this an amazing romantic destination for couples. If you enjoy the outdoors and adventure activities, then there is no shortage of opportunities to explore here.

Saaremaa is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lofoten Islands is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Lofoten Islands. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. 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.

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

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Lofoten Islands. There are buses and ferries, but the service is limited, although reliable.

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 Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Neither Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands are walkable places.

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

Lofoten Islands is not a walkable island. Although the area is filled with hikes, you really must have a car if you hope to explore it with flexibility and accessibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands?

Both Saaremaa and Lofoten Islands have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lofoten Islands than in Saaremaa. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lofoten Islands 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 Lofoten Islands.

One day in Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands?

Saaremaa is a small town with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful archipelago of Lofoten Islands offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Lofoten Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands?

Saaremaa is a great place to explore. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Lofoten Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lofoten Islands, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Lofoten Islands?

Since Saaremaa is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lofoten Islands is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lofoten Islands has to offer. This archipelago 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 Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saaremaa and Lofoten Islands, we can see that Saaremaa is more expensive. And not only is Lofoten Islands much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lofoten Islands would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lofoten Islands 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 Saaremaa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saaremaa than you might in Lofoten Islands.

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