A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Bergen for Old Town, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Stockholm or Bergen?

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 Bergen 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 safe, expensive, and beautiful city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Bergen

Bergen is a laid back, nostalgic, and friendly 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 nightlife.

Stockholm and Bergen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Bergen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stockholm than Bergen, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Stockholm is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bergen is known for its small town charm. Stockholm is more touristy than Bergen and is known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also home to Gamla Stan (the old town). Bergen is popular for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stockholm is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Stockholm offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Bergen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

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

Both Stockholm and Bergen offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Stockholm. 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.

Bergen is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Stockholm or Bergen Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Stockholm has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bergen. 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.

Is Stockholm or Bergen Better for Music?

Stockholm is very popular for its music scene. However, Bergen is not a live music destination.

In Stockholm you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Bergen is not a live music destination.

Is Stockholm or Bergen Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

Stockholm has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Bergen is a good destination for visiting its old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Bergen?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bergen and Stockholm.

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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.

Is Stockholm or Bergen Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Stockholm is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Bergen is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Stockholm or Bergen Better for Couples?

Stockholm is very popular for couples. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Stockholm makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Bergen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Stockholm or Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm and Bergen are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Stockholm is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bergen. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Stockholm or Bergen Better for Students?

Stockholm and Bergen are good places to visit for students.

Stockholm is popular with students. 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.

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.

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

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

Stockholm has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

Public transit in Bergen is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

Is Stockholm or Bergen a more walkable city?

Stockholm is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bergen or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Bergen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stockholm and Bergen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Bergen. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bergen.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Bergen. 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 Bergen. 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 Stockholm than Bergen 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 Stockholm.

One day in Stockholm or Bergen?

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bergen. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bergen has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stockholm or Bergen?

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Bergen. 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.

Five days in Stockholm or Bergen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the nostalgic city of Bergen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stockholm or Bergen?

Stockholm is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Bergen is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Bergen?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Bergen. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm 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 Stockholm or Bergen?

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 Bergen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Bergen. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bergen in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Stockholm is a little warmer than Bergen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stockholm in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Bergen averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Bergen. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stockholm or Bergen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Bergen. Many visitors come to Stockholm in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bergen for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Stockholm is generally cooler than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 8°C (46°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. Stockholm usually gets less rain in October than Bergen. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Bergen in the Winter?

Both Bergen and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bergen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bergen can be very cold. Stockholm can be very cold during winter. Stockholm is much colder than Bergen in the winter. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Bergen fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Bergen. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stockholm or Bergen in the Spring?

Both Bergen and Stockholm during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm are the main draw to Bergen this time of year.

In the spring, Stockholm is cooler than Bergen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stockholm in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Bergen averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Bergen. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergen and Stockholm