A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Music, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Stockholm or Barcelona?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Stockholm and Barcelona can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a clean, coastal, and safe city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a cultural, friendly, and high energy city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Stockholm. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Stockholm attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Barcelona is more touristy than Stockholm and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Stockholm is famous for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town.

How is Stockholm different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stockholm or Barcelona?

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Stockholm and Barcelona.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Stockholm or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Barcelona. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Barcelona is a world class party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Many people head to Stockholm for the nightlife scene. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Stockholm or Barcelona.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Barcelona has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a city with good options for the beache. However, Stockholm is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Barcelona. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Stockholm is not a beach destination.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Stockholm is one of the most recognized in the world. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Barcelona?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona Better for Families?

Stockholm is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Stockholm is an extremely popular city to visit for families. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Stockholm is renowned for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Stockholm is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stockholm is renowned for its public transit. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Stockholm has a great public transit system. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Stockholm or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Stockholm is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Stockholm Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Barcelona?

Both Stockholm and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Barcelona has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Barcelona than Stockholm. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Stockholm 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 Barcelona.

One day in Stockholm or Barcelona?

People visit Stockholm because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Barcelona. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stockholm or Barcelona?

People visit Stockholm because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find live music and food around the friendly big city of Barcelona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Barcelona?

People visit Stockholm because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the high energy city of Barcelona. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Stockholm or Barcelona?

Stockholm is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stockholm, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Stockholm, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Stockholm and Barcelona, we can see that Stockholm 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 Stockholm Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Stockholm. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Barcelona, 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 Stockholm or Barcelona?

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 Stockholm or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Barcelona. The summer months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In July, Stockholm is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Stockholm, it's very sunny this time of the year. Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stockholm or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Barcelona. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Stockholm is much colder than Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in October than Barcelona. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Stockholm. In the winter, Stockholm is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stockholm or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Stockholm during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stockholm in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Stockholm is generally much colder than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Barcelona. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Stockholm