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

Should you visit Stockholm or Tromso?

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 Tromso 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a remote, one-of-a-kind, and spectacular town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Tromso?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stockholm than Tromso, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Stockholm is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Tromso is known for its food, hiking, and small town charm. Stockholm is popular 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). Tromso is popular for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stockholm is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.

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

Tromso 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 Tromso. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

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 Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Stockholm or Tromso Better for Music?

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

Stockholm has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Tromso is not a live music destination.

Is Stockholm or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Is Stockholm or Tromso Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Tromso. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Tromso?

Stockholm is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Stockholm or Tromso Better for Families?

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

Tromso is a very family-friendly place to visit. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

Is Stockholm or Tromso Better for Couples?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

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.

Tromso is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

Is Stockholm or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm and Tromso 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 Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Stockholm or Tromso Better for Students?

Stockholm and Tromso 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 Tromso. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

Is Stockholm or Tromso 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, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Stockholm or Tromso a more walkable city?

Stockholm is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its 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.

Tromso is very walkable. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Tromso?

Both Stockholm and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Stockholm has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Stockholm than Tromso. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

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.

Even though Tromso 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. 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 Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Stockholm or Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tromso, 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 Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Tromso?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Stockholm during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

In the summer, Stockholm is a little warmer than Tromso. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stockholm in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Tromso averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Tromso, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Stockholm. In the summer, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Tromso. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Tromso in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Tromso. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tromso for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. In October, Stockholm is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 8°C (46°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Stockholm usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tromso receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Tromso. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stockholm or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Tromso. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Tromso in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Tromso can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Stockholm. Stockholm is much warmer than Tromso in the winter. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Tromso fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in January than Tromso. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Tromso in the Spring?

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

Tromso can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Stockholm is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stockholm in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Tromso averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Stockholm usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during spring. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Tromso. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tromso and Stockholm