A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Flam for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Stockholm or Flam?

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 Flam 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 coastal, safe, and expensive city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

Flam

Flam is a natural, breathtaking, and beautiful village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local 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 hiking.

Stockholm and Flam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Flam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stockholm. Although Stockholm and Flam are popular destinations, Stockholm has more sights and attractions for tourists. Stockholm is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Flam attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and small town charm. Stockholm is famous for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also well known for Gamla Stan (the old town). Flam is famous for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Flam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stockholm is a great city for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.

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

Flam 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 Flam. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants 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 Flam Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm is a great city for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Stockholm has something for everybody. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.

Is Stockholm or Flam Better for Music?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Flam is not a live music destination.

Stockholm is known as a music capital around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Flam is not a live music destination.

Is Stockholm or Flam Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Flam does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Stockholm offers plenty to see. 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.

Flam does not have a historic old town.

Is Stockholm or Flam Better for Hiking?

Flam is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Flam. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Flam?

Stockholm is a great city for shopping. However, Flam is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.

Is Stockholm or Flam Better for Families?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Stockholm is very family-friendly. 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.

Flam is a very kid-friendly city. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.

Is Stockholm or Flam Better for Couples?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its romantic activities.

Stockholm is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Flam is a very popular place to visit for couples. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.

Is Stockholm or Flam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm and Flam are nice 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 Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Stockholm or Flam Better for Students?

Stockholm is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Flam is not popular with students.

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.

Flam is not popular with students.

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

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its public transit.

Visitors in Stockholm can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

Flam has a few public transit options. There is a local bus service through the area.

Is Stockholm or Flam a more walkable city?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its high level of walkability.

Stockholm is a very easy city to get around 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.

Flam is a very walkable city. There are many great walks in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Flam or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Flam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stockholm or Flam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Stockholm than Flam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-2 days is enough time in Flam.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Flam. 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 Flam. 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 Flam 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 Flam?

Stockholm is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Even though Flam is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Flam has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stockholm or Flam?

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the live music. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Flam is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Flam?

Stockholm is a beautiful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Flam is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stockholm or Flam?

Stockholm is a clean city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Flam is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Adventure Tours to Norway, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stockholm and Flam, we can see that Stockholm is more expensive. And not only is Flam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Flam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Flam 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 Flam.

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

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Flam?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 2510 times larger than the population of Flam. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Flam, 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 Flam?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Stockholm or Flam in the Summer?

Both Flam and Stockholm during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Flam for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Stockholm is generally a little warmer than Flam. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°F), and Flam fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Stockholm usually gets less rain in July than Flam. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Flam receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Flam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Flam. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Flam in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Stockholm is cooler than Flam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Flam fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Flam receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Flam. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Flam receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stockholm or Flam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Flam. Many visitors come to Stockholm in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Flam for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Flam can be very cold during winter. Stockholm can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Stockholm is much colder than Flam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Flam averages at about 2°C (35°F).

It's quite rainy in Flam. Stockholm usually gets less rain in January than Flam. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Flam receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Flam in the Spring?

Both Flam and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Flam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Stockholm is generally cooler than Flam. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Flam fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. In April, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Flam. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Flam receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Flam and Stockholm