A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tallinn vs. Aalborg for Old Town, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Tallinn or Aalborg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Aalborg, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a quaint, whimsical, and historical city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a charming, local, and historic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Tallinn and Aalborg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Tallinn or Aalborg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tallinn than Aalborg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tallinn is very popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Aalborg attracts visitors for its food and small town charm. Tallinn is more touristy than Aalborg and is popular for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Old Town. Aalborg is famous for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

The Old Town
The Old Town

How is Tallinn different from Aalborg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tallinn or Aalborg?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Tallinn is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Tallinn. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

Aalborg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.


Is the Food Better in Tallinn or Aalborg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Aalborg is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Aalborg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Tallinn area. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

Is Tallinn or Aalborg Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn
Aalborg

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Tallinn and Aalborg.

Tallinn has a large number of nightlife venues. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

Aalborg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

Is Tallinn or Aalborg Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Tallinn is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Tallinn is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Aalborg. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.


Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Aalborg?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Tallinn is a great destination for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Tallinn is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Is Tallinn or Aalborg Better for Families?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Tallinn and Aalborg are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Tallinn is a family-friendly city. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aalborg. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.

Is Tallinn or Aalborg Better for Couples?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Tallinn is a great destination for romance. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Tallinn frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

Aalborg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.


Is Tallinn or Aalborg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Tallinn is renowned for backpackers. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tallinn is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Tallinn or Aalborg Better for Students?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Both Tallinn and Aalborg are nice destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Tallinn. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

Aalborg is popular with students. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.

Is Tallinn or Aalborg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Tallinn is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Tallinn can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

While Aalborg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system around town.


Is Tallinn or Aalborg a more walkable city?

Tallinn
Aalborg

Tallinn is renowned for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Tallinn on foot is easy. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Tallinn Worth Visiting? and Is Aalborg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aalborg or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Aalborg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallinn and Aalborg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tallinn than in Aalborg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aalborg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tallinn than Aalborg 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 Tallinn.


  • How many days in Tallinn or Aalborg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallinn 2-4 
    Aalborg 2-3

One day in Tallinn or Aalborg?

In Tallinn, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Aalborg, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Tallinn or Aalborg?

In Tallinn, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tallinn has to offer.

In Aalborg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aalborg has to offer.


Five days in Tallinn or Aalborg?

Tallinn is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Aalborg is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Tallinn or Aalborg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallinn. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Tallinn. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aalborg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aalborg. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, and The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark.


Which place is cheaper, Aalborg or Tallinn?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallinn is €95, while the average daily cost in Aalborg is €146. 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 Tallinn and Aalborg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallinn 47
    Aalborg 82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallinn 94
    Aalborg 164
Compare Hotels in Tallinn and Aalborg

Looking for a hotel in Tallinn or Aalborg? 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 Tallinn


Hotels in Aalborg


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: Tallinn Hotel Prices and Aalborg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallinn 12
    Aalborg 30
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Tallinn

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Tallinn:


  • Tram Around Town for Two
    1.66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tallinn

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

  • Tallinn Party Bus Airport Transfer: $124
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Tallinn Airport or Port to Tallinn City by minibus: $91
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Tallinn Airport or Port to Tallinn by Luxury Car : $90
  • Arrival private transfer from Tallinn Airport or Port to Tallinn by Luxury Van: $42
  • Departure private transfer from Tallinn to Tallinn Airport or Port by Luxury Car: $90
  • Departure private transfer from Tallinn to Tallinn TLL Airport by Luxury Van: $42
  • From Helicopter transfer to Helsinki: $2,637
  • From Return Day Trip Ferry Transfer to Helsinki: $41
  • Private Transfer from Tallinn Airport(TLL) to Tallinn Cruise Port: $16
  • Private Transfer from Tallinn hotels to Tallinn Cruise Port : $16
  • Talinn Airport and City Private Transfer: $44
  • Tallinn Airport Transfer - Return: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aalborg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aalborg:

  • Private Transfer from Aalborg City Hotels to Skagen Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg Airport (AAL) to Skagen Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Airport and City Transfers in Aalborg: $87
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg city centre to Aalborg airport: $130
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg (AAL) Airport to City centre: $130

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallinn or Aalborg?

Prices for flights to both Aalborg and Tallinn 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
    Tallinn 36
    Aalborg 44
Typical Food Prices in Tallinn

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


  • Lunch for Two
    7.68
  • Dessert
    1.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tallinn

For Tallinn, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (2-course meal): $55
  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (3-course meal): $63
  • Tallinn Russian Dinner: $84
  • Tallinn Beer House Dinner: $96
  • Tallinn Food Tour: $115
  • Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour: $126
  • Tallinn Food Tour with Round-trip Transfer Port-City: $136

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallinn 5.63
    Aalborg 22

Tours and Activities in Tallinn

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Tallinn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.53
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.93
  • Aegna Island: Self-Guided Discovery Tour: $8.51
  • Private Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour in Tallinn Old Town: $8.71
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Tour to the Paljassaare Special Protection Area: $14
  • Tallinn Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Self-Guided Tour to Most Instagrammable Places in Tallinn: $15
  • Terrific Tallinn Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Virtual Time Travel Experience VR Tallinn 1939/44 I: $16
  • Time Travel Experience "VR Tallinn 1939/44": $16

Tours and Activities in Aalborg

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

  • 3-Hours Street Art Tour in Aalborg: $44
  • Aalborg during WW2: Self-guided Audio Tour with StoryHunt: $14
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $244
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $478
  • The best of Aalborg walking tour: $217

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallinn 15
    Aalborg 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallinn

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

  • Mad Monk’s Pub Crawl Tallinn: $21
  • Tallinn Pub Crawl (Ex The Epic Bar Crawl): $27
  • Tallinn Exclusive Pub & Bar Crawl - Free Drinks, Local Guide: $42
  • Tallinn Brewery Fiesta: $72
  • Tallinn Guided Bar Crawl: $123


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Aalborg?

Tallinn has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Aalborg. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn and Aalborg, 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 Tallinn or Aalborg?

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 Tallinn or Aalborg in the Summer?

Both Aalborg and Tallinn during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tallinn for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Aalborg in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tallinn is generally around the same temperature as Aalborg. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 17°C (62°F), and Aalborg fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Tallinn usually gets more rain in July than Aalborg. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallinn 17°C (62°F) 
    Aalborg 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Aalborg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Aalborg. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Aalborg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

Tallinn is cooler than Aalborg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 7°C (44°F) in October, and Aalborg fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In October, Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aalborg. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallinn 7°C (44°F) 
    Aalborg 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Aalborg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Aalborg. Most visitors come to Tallinn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Aalborg can be very cold. Tallinn can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Tallinn is much colder than Aalborg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallinn in January average around -5°C (22°F), and Aalborg averages at about -1°C (31°F).

Tallinn usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Aalborg. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallinn -5°C (22°F) 
    Aalborg -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Aalborg in the Spring?

Both Aalborg and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year.

The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. In April, Tallinn is generally cooler than Aalborg. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 4°C (39°F), and Aalborg fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In April, Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aalborg. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallinn 4°C (39°F) 
    Aalborg 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Aalborg and Tallinn

Tallinn Aalborg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (22°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -6°C (22°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) -0°C (31°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 7°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 1°C (34°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec -3°C (27°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)