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

Should you visit Stockholm or Girona?

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 Girona 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. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Girona

Girona is a medieval, ancient, and charming city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Stockholm and Girona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Stockholm or Girona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Stockholm than Girona. Stockholm is bigger than Girona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Stockholm is better known for its nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Girona is more popular for its food, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Stockholm is more touristy than Girona and is known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. Also, Stockholm is famous for Gamla Stan (the old town). Girona is well known for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

Gamla Stan (the old town)
Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stockholm
Girona

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Stockholm and Girona.

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 Girona. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.


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

Stockholm
Girona

Girona 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 Girona. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

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 Girona Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm
Girona

Stockholm is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Stockholm offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Stockholm or Girona Better for Music?

Stockholm
Girona

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Girona is not a live music destination.

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.

Girona is not a live music destination.


Is Stockholm or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm
Girona

Both Stockholm and Girona have fantastic historic old towns worth visiting.

The rich history of Stockholm can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Girona has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Girona?

Stockholm
Girona

Shopping is a popular activity in both Girona 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 Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Is Stockholm or Girona Better for Families?

Stockholm
Girona

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.


Is Stockholm or Girona Better for Couples?

Stockholm
Girona

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Girona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Is Stockholm or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm
Girona

Stockholm and Girona are notable 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 Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Stockholm or Girona Better for Students?

Stockholm
Girona

Stockholm and Girona are notable 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 Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student


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

Stockholm
Girona

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

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.

Girona has some public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Is Stockholm or Girona a more walkable city?

Stockholm
Girona

Stockholm and Girona both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

Getting around Stockholm on foot is easy. 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.

Girona is a very easy city to get around on foot. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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

Should I spend more time in Girona or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stockholm or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Stockholm than Girona 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 Girona.

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


  • How many days in Stockholm or Girona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stockholm 2-7 
    Girona 1-2

One day in Stockholm or Girona?

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 quaint city of Girona. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Girona has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Stockholm or Girona?

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 food around the beautiful destination of Girona. 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.

Five days in Stockholm or Girona?

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 food and shopping when visiting the charming city of Girona. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stockholm or Girona?

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.

Girona is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Girona or Stockholm?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Stockholm is $167, while the average daily cost in Girona is $150. 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 Stockholm and Girona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stockholm $96
    Girona $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stockholm $192
    Girona $148
Compare Hotels in Stockholm and Girona

Looking for a hotel in Stockholm or Girona? 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 Stockholm


Hotels in Girona


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: Stockholm Hotel Prices and Girona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stockholm $20
    Girona $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

  • Arlanda Airport Bus Transfer Departure: $17
  • Train Transfer between City and Arlanda Airport: $21
  • Skavsta Airport Bus Transfer: $26
  • Private Transfer from Stockholm Port to Bromma Airport BMA: $37
  • Private Transfer from Bromma Airport (BMA) to Stockholm Port: $37
  • Stockholm City to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Stockholm Port to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Stockholm Hotels to Nynashamn Cruise Port Private Transfer: $38
  • Stockholm Port to Stockholm hotel Arrival Private Transfer: $41
  • Stockholm hotel to Stockholm Port Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Private Transfer from Stockholm hotels to Stockholm Cruise Port: $41
  • Stockholm to Stockholm Airport (ARN) - Departure Transfer: $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Girona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Girona:

  • Girona Airport (GRO) to Costa Brava - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Girona Airport Bus Transfer from/to Barcelona Center: $21
  • Palamós to Barcelona Airport (BNC) Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Palamós to Girona Airport (GRO) - Departure Private Transfer : $33
  • Private Transfer from Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar to Barcelona: $262
  • Transfer from Barcelona to girona Airport: $196

Is it cheaper to fly into Stockholm or Girona?

Prices for flights to both Girona and Stockholm 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
    Stockholm $36
    Girona $44
Typical Food Prices in Stockholm

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Stockholm:


  • Breakfast
    $9.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stockholm

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

  • Self Guided Taysta Food Tour in Stockholm: $33
  • Food Tour: $101
  • Stockholm Food Tour: $104
  • Stockholm Walking Food Tour With Small Group: $119
  • From Wildlife Safari with Campfire Dinner: $128

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Girona

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

  • The 11 tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $88
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $91
  • Girona Evening Food Tour & Tapas Bar Experience: $95
  • The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $96
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stockholm $25
    Girona $26

Tours and Activities in Stockholm

Here are a few actual costs in Stockholm for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2-Hour Free Walking Tour in Stockholm: $0.92
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Tour Gratis Estocolmo La Ciudad Vieja Isla los Caballerosen: $4.41
  • Central A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Central A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Gamla Stan's Landmarks and legends: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • History and Secrets of Gamla Audio Guided Walking Tour: $6.20
  • Stockholm City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Stockholm Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Highlights Tour: $6.95
  • Gamla Stan: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Stockholm’s Old City: $6.99
  • Walking Tour of Stockholm's City Center: $7.64

Tours and Activities in Girona

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

  • Girona self-guided tour app with multilingual audioguide: $4.28
  • Audio Tour Imprescindible a tu ritmo: $6.41
  • Girona Art Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket & Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Entrance ticket to the Girona Art Museum: $6.54
  • Museum of Cinema Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Fábrica-Museo de Anchoas Solés Ticket: $7.74
  • Self-guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Girona City Tour Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Ticket pass to Girona Cathedral, Sant Felix and Girona Art Museum: $13
  • Catedral, Art Museum, St Felix Church Ticket & Audio: $29
  • E-ticket to Girona's Cathedral, Art Museum & S.t Feliu Church: $29
  • Girona History, Legends, and Food Walking Tour with food tasting: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stockholm $26
    Girona $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Stockholm

Also in Stockholm, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Stockholm Pub Crawl: $32
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $280
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $288

Sample the Local Flavors in Girona

Also in Girona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Spanish Wine Tasting in the Costa Brava: $82
  • Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting: $149


When comparing the travel costs between Stockholm and Girona, 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 Girona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Girona?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Girona. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Girona, 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 Girona?

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 Girona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Girona. 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 Girona for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Stockholm is cooler than Girona in the summer. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Girona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Girona this time of the year. In Stockholm, it's very sunny this time of the year. Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Girona during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives more rain than Girona. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stockholm 18°C (64°F) 
    Girona 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Girona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Girona. 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. Additionally, many visitors come to Girona in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Stockholm is much colder than Girona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stockholm in October average around 8°C (46°F), and Girona averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Girona. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in October than Girona. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stockholm 8°C (46°F) 
    Girona 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Girona in the Winter?

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

Stockholm can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Stockholm is generally much colder than Girona. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around -3°C (27°F), and Girona fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Girona during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Girona. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stockholm -3°C (27°F) 
    Girona 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Girona in the Spring?

Both Girona and Stockholm during the spring are popular places to visit. 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 Girona because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Stockholm is much colder than Girona in the spring. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 5°C (41°F) in April, and Girona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Girona. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Girona. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stockholm 5°C (41°F) 
    Girona 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Girona and Stockholm

Stockholm Girona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in) 9°C (48°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 26 mm (1 in) 11°C (51°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (62°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 24°C (74°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 3°C (37°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec -1°C (31°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (47°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)