A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tallinn vs. Alesund for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Tallinn or Alesund?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Alesund, 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 historical, charming, and quaint city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Alesund

Alesund is a welcoming, friendly, and scenic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Tallinn and Alesund: 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 with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Tallinn or Alesund?

Both Alesund and Tallinn have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Tallinn is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Alesund attracts visitors for its food and big city activities. Tallinn is more touristy than Alesund and is popular for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Alesund is famous for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords.

How is Tallinn different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tallinn
Alesund

Tallinn is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Tallinn offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Alesund offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.


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

Tallinn
Alesund

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

Alesund has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

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 Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn
Alesund

Tallinn is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Tallinn offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

Is Tallinn or Alesund Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn
Alesund

Tallinn is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Tallinn is revered around 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.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Alesund?

Tallinn
Alesund

Tallinn is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Tallinn or Alesund Better for Families?

Tallinn
Alesund

Tallinn and Alesund 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 Alesund. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Is Tallinn or Alesund Better for Couples?

Tallinn
Alesund

Tallinn is a well-known place for romance. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Tallinn is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Alesund makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.


Is Tallinn or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn
Alesund

Tallinn is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city 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.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Tallinn or Alesund Better for Students?

Tallinn
Alesund

Both Tallinn and Alesund are nice destinations for students.

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

Alesund is popular with students. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

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

Tallinn
Alesund

Tallinn is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.


Is Tallinn or Alesund a more walkable city?

Tallinn
Alesund

Tallinn is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Alesund?

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

Families should spend more time in Tallinn than Alesund. 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 Alesund. 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 Alesund 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 Alesund? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallinn 2-4 
    Alesund 2-3

One day in Tallinn or Alesund?

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 Alesund, you'll find nightlife and food. This city 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 Alesund?

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 Alesund, 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 Alesund has to offer.


Five days in Tallinn or Alesund?

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.

Alesund 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 Alesund?

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 Alesund. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alesund. 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 Tours for Seniors to Norway, and The Best Contiki Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Alesund 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 Alesund is €93. 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 Alesund in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallinn 47
    Alesund 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallinn 94
    Alesund 98
Compare Hotels in Tallinn and Alesund

Looking for a hotel in Tallinn or Alesund? 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 Alesund


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallinn 12
    Alesund 24
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 Cruise Port to Tallinn hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $17
  • Tallinn hotels to Tallinn Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $17
  • Private Transfer from Tallinn Airport(TLL) to Tallinn Cruise Port: $17
  • Private Transfer from Tallinn Cruise Port to Tallinn Airport(TLL): $17
  • Private Transfer from Tallinn hotels to Tallinn Cruise Port : $17
  • Tallinn Airport (TLL) to Tallinn Cruise Port - Round-Trip Privat Transfer: $33
  • Tallinn Cruise Port to Tallinn hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • From Return Day Trip Ferry Transfer to Helsinki: $42
  • Highlights Shore Excursion with Return Transfer: $42
  • Arrival private transfer from Tallinn Airport or Port to Tallinn by Luxury Van: $43
  • Private Airport Transfer: $43
  • Airport Transfer Service: $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Tour from Alesund to Trollstigen Land of Trolls with Transfer: $153
  • Private Transfer from Molde Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $37
  • Private Transfer from Molde Cruise Port to Alesund City Hotels: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund hotels to Geiranger Cruise Port: $187
  • Private Transfer from Alesund city hotels to Maloy Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Olden Port: $65
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Molde Port: $37
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Andalsnes Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Alesund Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Geiranger Port: $188
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallinn or Alesund?

Prices for flights to both Alesund 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
    Alesund 28
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): $56
  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (3-course meal): $64
  • Tallinn Russian Dinner: $85
  • Tallinn Beer House Dinner: $97
  • Tallinn Food Tour: $117
  • Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour: $128
  • Tallinn Food Tour with Round-trip Transfer Port-City: $138

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallinn 5.63
    Alesund 15

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: $3.26
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $7.06
  • Aegna Island: Self-Guided Discovery Tour: $8.68
  • Tales of Reval Self Guided Application Tour: $8.82
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Tallinn Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Tour to the Paljassaare Special Protection Area: $14
  • Terrific Tallinn Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Time Travel Experience "VR Tallinn 1939/44": $16
  • Virtual Time Travel Experience VR Tallinn 1939/44 I: $16
  • Private Self Guided Tour in Tallinn: $17
  • 1-Hour Good Morning Tallinn Running Tour: $17

Tours and Activities in Alesund

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

  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $105
  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $43
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $44
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $114
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $127
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $145
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $106
  • Fjordcruise Ålesund Geirangerfjord T/R: $172
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $57
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $66
  • Shared Tour of Geiranger from Hellesylt: $143

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallinn 15
    Alesund 11

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: $22
  • Tallinn Pub Crawl (Ex The Epic Bar Crawl): $27
  • Tallinn Brewery Fiesta: $73
  • Tallinn Guided Bar Crawl: $125


When comparing the travel costs between Tallinn and Alesund, we can see that Tallinn 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 Tallinn Expensive? and Is Alesund Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Alesund?

Tallinn has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn and Alesund, 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 Alesund?

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 Alesund in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Alesund. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Alesund for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Tallinn is generally a little warmer than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 17°C (62°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Tallinn usually gets less rain in July than Alesund. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallinn 17°C (62°F) 
    Alesund 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Alesund in the Autumn?

Both Alesund and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tallinn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Alesund because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Alesund. In October, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Alesund. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Tallinn or Alesund in the Winter?

Both Alesund and Tallinn during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Alesund this time of year.

It's quite cold in Alesund in the winter. The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. In the winter, Tallinn is much colder than Alesund. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallinn in January average around -5°C (22°F), and Alesund averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Alesund gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tallinn usually gets less rain in January than Alesund. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallinn -5°C (22°F) 
    Alesund 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Alesund in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Alesund. The natural beauty are the main draw to Tallinn this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alesund for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Alesund. It's quite cold in Tallinn in the spring. In April, Tallinn is generally cooler than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 4°C (39°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In April, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Alesund. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallinn 4°C (39°F) 
    Alesund 5°C (40°F)

Typical Weather for Alesund and Tallinn

Tallinn Alesund
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (22°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Feb -6°C (22°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Oct 7°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 188 mm (7.4 in)
Nov 1°C (34°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 187 mm (7.4 in)
Dec -3°C (27°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (38°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)