A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stuttgart vs. Lofoten Islands for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Stuttgart

Stuttgart is a modern, authentic, and commercial 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a dramatic, remote, and pristine archipelago. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Stuttgart and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stuttgart. Although Stuttgart and Lofoten Islands are both popular with visitors, Stuttgart has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Stuttgart is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Lofoten Islands is known for its beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lofoten Islands is more touristy than Stuttgart and is popular for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses. Stuttgart is popular for its many automobile museums including the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. It is also home to The Mercedes-Benz Museum.

How is Stuttgart different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lofoten Islands and Stuttgart. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Lofoten Islands and Stuttgart.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Stuttgart. The city's influence over the car industry is reflected in the museums in town. You can visit both the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. Also check out Schlossplatz, the Ludwigsburg Palace, and Altes Schloss and Landesmuseum while you're in town.

Lofoten Islands is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The charming towns often have local museums that highlight the region's history and culture. The Lofoten War Memorial Museum is in the town of Svolvaer. The Lofotr Viking Museum is on the island of Vestvågøy and the Lofoten Museum is in Kabelvåg.


Is the Food Better in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Stuttgart and Lofoten Islands can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Stuttgart has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city blends traditional German flavors with modern twists. You'll find much more than the standard bratworsts that so many people associate with German cuisine. One favorite dish is maultaschen, which is like a ravioli. Also make sure you try spätzle, zwiebelrostbraten (roast and onions) and flädlesuppe (soup with long pasta).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lofoten Islands makes for a great culinary experience. Fish and lamb are both common at most restaurants in the area. The food is fresh, delicious, and filling, and although it's expensive, it's also high quality and uniquely local.

Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Stuttgart is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its evening party scene.

Stuttgart offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene stays active late into the evening. You'll find no shortage of clubs, bars, music venues, and beer gardens. You'll meet a combination of locals, tourists, students, and expats at many venues.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Lofoten Islands. Some towns have local bars and pubs that are fun places to grab a drink.

Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a very popular place for the beach. However, Stuttgart is not a beach destination.

Lofoten Islands is considered a top beach destination. Most people don't think of the Arctic when they think about beaches, but these islands have long sandy beaches that meet blue waters. They're tucked in between valleys and mountains and offer a surreal Arctic landscape.

Stuttgart is not a beach destination.


Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Stuttgart does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lofoten Islands. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Stuttgart does not have a historic old town.

Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its hiking trails. However, Stuttgart is not a hiking destination.

People visit Lofoten Islands specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. It's remote setting and dramatic scenery lead to some truly breathtaking hikes. You'll find trails that pass by beautiful beaches, climb spectacular peaks, and wander through the beautiful countryside. Reinebringen, Horseid Beach, and Bunes Beach are among the favorite hikes in the area.

Stuttgart is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Stuttgart is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its shopping areas.

Stuttgart is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with pedestrian shopping streets as well as flea markets and major shopping malls. The main shopping street in town is Koenigstrasse, where you'll find many upscale boutiques. For a local food market head to Markthalle Stuttgart. The flagship store of the Breuninger chain is also found in Stuttgart.

Lofoten Islands has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are quirky local shops that sell local art, food, and merchandise.


Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lofoten Islands. Outdoor adventures await at this breathtaking archipelago. There's kayaking, hiking, whale watch, and even a few Viking museums that the kids will enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stuttgart. Like many German city's, there's a great zoo to explore. There's also some unique museums like the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. Kids will also enjoy taking in the view from the top of the Fernsehturm.

Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for couples. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Lofoten Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning views, dramatic fjords, and world class outdoor adventures make this an amazing romantic destination for couples. If you enjoy the outdoors and adventure activities, then there is no shortage of opportunities to explore here.

Stuttgart is a nice destination for couples. The city is large enough to have some nice romantic hotels, spas, luxury restaurants, and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Lofoten Islands. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

Stuttgart is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's not on the backpacker circuit for most people but there are still plenty of hostels and affordable accommodation options. You'll also find plenty of activities and affordable restaurants to choose from.


Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands Better for Students?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Stuttgart is a well-known place for students. However, Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Stuttgart is very popular with students. It's an international city with great universities and a friendly and central location. There's also a lively nightlife and plenty of things to do.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Stuttgart is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Stuttgart can get you to some places easily. The city's transit system includes buses, the U‑Bahn and the S‑Bahn. The U-Bahn is a denser train system in the city center and the S-Bahn covers more distance and reaches into the suburbs with stops that are more spread out.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lofoten Islands. There are buses and ferries, but the service is limited, although reliable.

Is Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

Stuttgart
Lofoten Islands

Stuttgart is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its ease of walking around.

Stuttgart is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are more walkable than others.

Lofoten Islands is not a very walkable city. Although the area is filled with hikes, you really must have a car if you hope to explore it with flexibility and accessibility.


For even more information, also check out Is Stuttgart Worth Visiting? and Is Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Stuttgart?

How long in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Both Stuttgart and Lofoten Islands have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lofoten Islands than in Stuttgart. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Stuttgart, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

Families should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Stuttgart. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lofoten Islands, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Stuttgart. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lofoten Islands that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Stuttgart 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 Lofoten Islands.


  • How many days in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stuttgart 2-4 
    Lofoten Islands 4-7

One day in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Stuttgart is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the archipelago of Lofoten Islands. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Stuttgart is a big city with plenty to do. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find museums and food around the remote destination of Lofoten Islands. 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 archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Stuttgart is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the dramatic archipelago of Lofoten Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.


A week in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Stuttgart. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lofoten Islands is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lofoten Islands, 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.


Which place is cheaper, Lofoten Islands or Stuttgart?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Stuttgart is €164, while the average daily cost in Lofoten Islands is €50. 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 Stuttgart and Lofoten Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stuttgart 101
    Lofoten Islands 6.67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stuttgart 202
    Lofoten Islands 13
Compare Hotels in Stuttgart and Lofoten Islands

Looking for a hotel in Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands? 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 Stuttgart


Hotels in Lofoten Islands


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: Stuttgart Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stuttgart 25
    Lofoten Islands 9.86

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stuttgart

Also for Stuttgart, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Stuttgart Airport (STR) to Baden-Baden Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $76
  • Stuttgart Airport to Titisee-Neustadt Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $76
  • Stuttgart Airport to Oberstdorf Alpsee Grünten Arrival Transfer: $87
  • Private Transfer: Stuttgart to Stuttgart Airport STR by MB Sedan: $91
  • Private Transfer: Stuttgart Airport STR to Stuttgart by MB Van: $91
  • Private Transfer: Stuttgart Airport STR to Stuttgart by MB Sedan: $91
  • Special Private Transfer from Stuttgart to Mercedes-Benz Museum: $91
  • Private Transfer: Stuttgart to Stuttgart Airport STR by MB Van: $91
  • Private Transfer to/from Stuttgart Airport (STR): $103
  • Private Transfer Stuttgart Airport STR to Stuttgart by Luxury Car: $108
  • Private Transfer Stuttgart to Stuttgart Airport STR by Luxury Car: $108
  • Private Transfer from Stuttgart City to Frankfurt City: $139

Is it cheaper to fly into Stuttgart or Lofoten Islands?

Prices for flights to both Lofoten Islands and Stuttgart 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
    Stuttgart 37
    Lofoten Islands 32
Typical Food Prices in Stuttgart

For Stuttgart, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Panini To Go
    2.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stuttgart 24
    Lofoten Islands 23

Tours and Activities in Stuttgart

For Stuttgart, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Wine Museum Ticket: $4.28
  • Landesmuseum Württemberg Old Castle Entry Ticket: $6.42
  • Stuttgart Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Stuttgart Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Stuttgart Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • TV Tower Tickets: $11
  • VfB Fan-Tour at the MHPArena: $12
  • Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $13
  • entertaining guided tour to old town highlights: $15
  • Stuttgart city tour: $15
  • Stuttgart city library - an architectural tour: $17
  • Stuttgart Nature Experience Day: $20

Tours and Activities in Lofoten Islands

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

  • From Leknes port: Special Summer Guided Tour of Lofoten : $125
  • Sea Kayak Guided Tours on Skrova Island: $115
  • Small-Group Cultural Walking Tour of Skrova: $33
  • Winter Half Day Kayak Tour: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stuttgart 22
    Lofoten Islands 0.67

Sample the Local Flavors in Stuttgart

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Stuttgart:

  • Vineyard hike along one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Stuttgart with wine tasting: $28
  • Wine hike with wine tasting: $31
  • Guided Wine Walk & Wine Tasting: $44
  • Wine Tour with wines of the best winemakers: $46
  • Fußball Weintour - Football & Wine Tour: $46
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513


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

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