A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Oslo for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Stockholm or Oslo?

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 Oslo 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 beautiful, clean, and coastal 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Oslo

Oslo is a clean, progressive, and park-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Oslo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stockholm than Oslo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. 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). Oslo is famous for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Stockholm and Oslo.

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 Oslo. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

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

Both Stockholm and Oslo offer a number of nice 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.

Oslo is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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 Oslo. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Music?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Oslo is not a live music destination.

Stockholm is a world class music destination. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Oslo is not a live music destination.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Stockholm offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Oslo?

Stockholm is notable for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

Stockholm is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Families?

Both Stockholm and Oslo are first-rate to visit with kids.

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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Oslo is very family-friendly. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Couples?

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

Stockholm has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Oslo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm and Oslo 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 Oslo. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Students?

Oslo is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Oslo. The University of Oslo has an excellent reputation and welcomes many foreign students every year. The school does a lot to make sure international students feel at home here.

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 Oslo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Stockholm and Oslo.

Stockholm has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Oslo can take you anywhere. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Is Stockholm or Oslo a more walkable city?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Oslo is a very walkable city. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Oslo?

In either Stockholm or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than Oslo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

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

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.

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

A weekend in Stockholm or Oslo?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the progressive big city of Oslo. 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 Oslo?

Stockholm is a expensive 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the green city of Oslo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Stockholm or Oslo?

Stockholm is a expensive 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.

Oslo 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Oslo?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Oslo. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Oslo, 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 Oslo?

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 Oslo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Oslo. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Oslo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Stockholm is generally around the same temperature as Oslo. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oslo 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 Oslo during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Oslo. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stockholm or Oslo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Oslo. The autumn months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

Stockholm is around the same temperature as Oslo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in October than Oslo. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Oslo. It's quite cold in Stockholm in the winter. In the winter, Stockholm is a little warmer than Oslo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Oslo averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Oslo. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stockholm or Oslo in the Spring?

Both Oslo and Stockholm during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Oslo in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Stockholm is generally around the same temperature as Oslo. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Oslo. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oslo and Stockholm