A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint-Tropez vs. Lillehammer for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

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

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a glamourous, opulent, and ritzy resort town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and food.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Saint-Tropez and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint-Tropez. Although Saint-Tropez and Lillehammer are popular destinations, Saint-Tropez has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint-Tropez is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing, museums, food, hiking, and small town charm. Saint-Tropez is more touristy than Lillehammer and is known for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy. It is also well known for The Old Port. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

The Old Port

How is Saint-Tropez different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Saint-Tropez is not a skiing destination.

People head to Lillehammer specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. 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.

Saint-Tropez is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

Lillehammer is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lillehammer is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

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

People head to Saint-Tropez just to party. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

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 Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

Saint-Tropez offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Tropez is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Saint-Tropez specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez is well known for its beaches. However, Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Saint-Tropez. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

Saint-Tropez is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Saint-Tropez is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

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 Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint-Tropez is an amazing family-friendly resort town to visit. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lillehammer is very family-friendly. 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 Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

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

Saint-Tropez has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

Lillehammer is a great resort town 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 Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint-Tropez and Lillehammer are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Saint-Tropez. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

Lillehammer is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Lillehammer is a popular place for students. However, Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

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

Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Saint-Tropez and Lillehammer.

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Tropez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

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

Is Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Saint-Tropez on foot is easy. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

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 Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting? and Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Saint-Tropez?

How long in Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer. In our opinion, Saint-Tropez has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Saint-Tropez than Lillehammer. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ritzy resort town of Saint-Tropez. 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 shopping and museums that this sporty city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the opulent destination of Saint-Tropez. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This resort town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Lillehammer is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

The opulent resort town of Saint-Tropez offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the sporty destination of Lillehammer. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Saint-Tropez. 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 place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France, 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 Saint-Tropez and Lillehammer, we can see that Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez Expensive? and Is Lillehammer Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint-Tropez or Lillehammer?

Lillehammer has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Tropez 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.