A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Andrews vs. Oslo for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Oslo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Oslo, 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.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a charming, quaint, and peaceful university town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Oslo

Oslo is a park-filled, green, and clean city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Saint Andrews and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Oslo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oslo. Although Saint Andrews and Oslo are popular destinations, Oslo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oslo is very popular for its museums and big city activities, while Saint Andrews attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Oslo is more touristy than Saint Andrews and is known for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. It is also well known for The Royal Palace. Saint Andrews is famous for its reputation as the birthplace of golf.

How is Saint Andrews different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Oslo?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Oslo is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oslo can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.


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

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Saint Andrews 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, Saint Andrews makes for a great culinary experience. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

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 Saint Andrews or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Both Saint Andrews and Oslo are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

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 Saint Andrews or Oslo Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Saint Andrews is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Oslo is not a beach destination.

Saint Andrews has a beach worth visiting. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Oslo is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Oslo Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Saint Andrews is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Oslo is not a hiking destination.

Saint Andrews has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Oslo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Oslo?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

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

Saint Andrews is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

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 Saint Andrews or Oslo Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Oslo is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Oslo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly university town. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.


Is Saint Andrews or Oslo Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Saint Andrews is notable for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Oslo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Is Saint Andrews or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Oslo is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.

Is Saint Andrews or Oslo Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Saint Andrews is an amazing university town to visit for students. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Saint Andrews is a great destination for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

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.


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

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Oslo is terrific for its public transit. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Oslo can take you anywhere. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Saint Andrews has some public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Is Saint Andrews or Oslo a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Oslo

Oslo is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Oslo is a very walkable city. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable university town. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Andrews Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Oslo?

In either Saint Andrews or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than Saint Andrews because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint Andrews, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oslo than Saint Andrews 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 Oslo.


  • How many days in Saint Andrews or Oslo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Andrews 1-2 
    Oslo 1-5

One day in Saint Andrews or Oslo?

Saint Andrews is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Oslo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Saint Andrews or Oslo?

Saint Andrews is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oslo. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Oslo?

Saint Andrews is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This university town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Oslo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Saint Andrews or Oslo?

Because Saint Andrews is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Oslo. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Oslo or Saint Andrews?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Andrews is £215, while the average daily cost in Oslo is £109. 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 Saint Andrews and Oslo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Oslo £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Oslo £130
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Oslo? 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 Saint Andrews


Hotels in Oslo


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: Oslo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Oslo £19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:


  • Tram Ticket
    £5.28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Trondheim Vaernes Airport (TRD) to Trondheim - Arrival Transfer : $40
  • Private Transfer:Oslo Gardermoen Airport(OSL) to Oslo City Center: $70
  • Trondheim Vaernes Airport (TRD) to Trondheim- Round-Trip Transfer: $81
  • Private Direct Transfer From Oslo to Drammen: $83
  • Private Transfer from Oslo Airport to Oslo Cruise Port: $89
  • Private Transfer from Oslo Cruise Port to Oslo Airport (OSL): $89
  • Oslo Cruise Port to Oslo Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Olso: Private Transfer from the City Center to Oslo Airport: $106
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo to Oslo Airport OSL by Business Car: $114
  • Arrival Private Transfer Oslo OSL Airport to Oslo by Business Car: $115
  • Oslo Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Oslo hotels: $129
  • Airport & City Transfers in Trondheim: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo and Saint Andrews 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
    Saint Andrews £62
    Oslo £24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oslo

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

  • Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner: $58
  • Oslofjord Dinner Cruise on a sailing ship : $61
  • Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $74
  • Christmas Street Food Tour with Akevitt and Christmas beer : $112
  • 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $117
  • Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $121

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Oslo £15

Tours and Activities in Saint Andrews

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

  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $19
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19
  • St Andrews Walking Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Ghost Tours: $20
  • The Original St Andrews Photo Shoot Tour: $82
  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $146
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $146
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $146

Tours and Activities in Oslo

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

  • Explore Oslo with Passionate Tour Guides: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Walking Tour in Oslo in English: $4.41
  • Tour a Pie en Oslo en Español: $4.41
  • Digging up the Past in Røros: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Akershus to Kongen Marina Waterfront: $7.99
  • An Oslo Waterfront Stroll: Self-paced Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Downtown Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Oslo Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
  • Discover Oslo's Heart: Audio Tour Through Time and Beauty: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Fram Museum Admission Ticket: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Oslo £8.82


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

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


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Oslo?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews or Oslo in the Summer?

Both Oslo and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

In July, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 14°C (58°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Oslo. Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Oslo during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Oslo. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Oslo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Oslo in the Autumn?

Both Oslo and Saint Andrews during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Oslo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Saint Andrews is a little warmer than Oslo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Oslo. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Oslo 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Oslo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Oslo. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Oslo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Oslo can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint Andrews. In the winter, Saint Andrews is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Andrews in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Oslo averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Andrews usually receives more rain than Oslo. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Andrews 3°C (38°F) 
    Oslo -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Oslo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Oslo. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Oslo for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Saint Andrews is generally a little warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 7°C (45°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Oslo. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Oslo. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Oslo 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Oslo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)