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

Should you visit Tallinn or Oslo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Oslo, 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.

Oslo

Oslo is a green, clean, and progressive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, museums, and nightlife.

Tallinn and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers


How is Tallinn different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tallinn or Oslo Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Tallinn
Oslo

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Tallinn and Oslo.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallinn can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Oslo. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.


Is Tallinn or Oslo Better for Food?

Tallinn
Oslo

Both Tallinn and Oslo offer a number of unique restaurants to choose from.

Tallinn has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Oslo area. 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 Tallinn or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn
Oslo

The nightlife scene is relatively similar in Tallinn and Oslo.

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.

Oslo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Tallinn or Oslo Better for Shopping?

Tallinn
Oslo

Tallinn usually beats out Oslo for shopping.

Tallinn is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Oslo has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Tallinn or Oslo Better for Families?

Tallinn
Oslo

Families will find a wider variety of activities in Oslo than Tallinn.

Oslo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Tallinn. 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.


Is Tallinn or Oslo Better for Couples?

Tallinn
Oslo

Tallinn and Oslo are both fun to visit as a couple.

Tallinn makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Oslo is a good city for couples to visit. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Is Tallinn or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn
Oslo

Tallinn is a more popular city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Tallinn is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Oslo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Tallinn or Oslo Better for Students?

Tallinn
Oslo

Both Tallinn and Oslo are popular destinations for students.

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

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.

Is Tallinn or Oslo Better for Public Transit?

Tallinn
Oslo

Visitors will find public transit in both Tallinn and Oslo.

Tallinn has some very good public transit options. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

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


Is Tallinn or Oslo a more walkable city?

Tallinn
Oslo

Tallinn and Oslo are similar when it comes to walkability.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Oslo?

In either Tallinn or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than Tallinn because of the overall number of sights and activities.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Tallinn is 2-4 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Oslo is 1-5 days.


  • How many days in Tallinn or Oslo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallinn 2-4 
    Oslo 1-5

One day in Tallinn or Oslo?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Tallinn. 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.

Because Oslo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Tallinn or Oslo?

Tallinn is a fun place to experience. 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.

Because Oslo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Oslo has to offer.

Five days in Tallinn or Oslo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Tallinn. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Oslo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oslo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Tallinn or Oslo?

The historical city of Tallinn offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Oslo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Oslo. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Which place is cheaper, Oslo 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 Oslo is €127. 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 Oslo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallinn 47
    Oslo 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallinn 94
    Oslo 150
Compare Hotels in Tallinn and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Tallinn or Oslo? 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 Oslo


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 Oslo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallinn 12
    Oslo 22
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:

  • Ultra - Tallinn Private Transfer from Tallinn Cruise Port to City Centre: $8.71
  • Ultra - Tallinn Private Transfer from City Centre to Tallinn Cruise Port: $8.71
  • Private Airport Transfer: Tallinn Airport (TLL) to Tallinn: $14
  • Private Airport Transfer: from Tallinn to Tallinn Airport (TLL): $14
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Tallinn TLL Airport to Tallinn City: $15
  • Private Departure Transfer from Tallinn City to Tallinn TLL Airport: $15
  • Arrival Private Transfer Tallinn Airport (TLL) to Tallinn City: $23
  • Departure Private Transfer Tallinn City to Tallinn TLL by Car: $23
  • Private Tallinn TLL Airport - Tallinn City Round-Trip Transfer: $29
  • City Transfer Tallinn: $33
  • Tallinn TLL Airport Luxury Van Private Arrival Transfer: $35
  • Tallinn TLL Airport Luxury Van Private Departure Transfer: $35

Typical Local Transportation prices in Oslo

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:


  • Tram Ticket
    6.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Ultra - Oslo Private Airport Transfer from City Centre to Oslo Airport: $8.71
  • Round Trip Transfer Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) to Oslo City Center: $235
  • Private Airport transfer Oslo city center to Oslo Airport (OSL): $235
  • Private Airport Transfer: from Oslo to Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL): $86
  • Private Oslo Airport to City Center Transfer: $131
  • Oslo Private Transfer: Oslo to Oslo Airport (OSL): $186
  • Oslo Private Transfer from Oslo city centre to Oslo airport: $233
  • Oslo City Center to Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $107
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Van: $271
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Car: $159
  • Olso: Private Transfer from the City Center to Oslo Airport: $131
  • Luxury Private Transfer from Olso Hotels to Olso Airport: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallinn or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo 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
    Oslo 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:

  • Estonian food tour in Tallinn: $12
  • Tallinn Sunset Dinner Cruise: $73
  • Tallinn Beer House Dinner: $75
  • Tallinn Russian Dinner: $96
  • Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour: $106
  • Tallinn Food Tour with Round-trip Transfer Port-City: $131
  • Tallinn Segway and Food Tour: $156
  • Vegan Food Tours Tallinn: $242

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallinn 5.63
    Oslo 18

Tours and Activities in Tallinn

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

  • Pioneer Street Art Tour in Tallinn Telliskivi Creative City: $12
  • Tallinn Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Tour to the Paljassaare Special Protection Area: $16
  • Skip the Line: Tallinn TV Tower Entrance Ticket: $16
  • Skip the Line: Tallinn Legends Interactive Museum Entrance Ticket: $17
  • Tallinn National Unity Tour on E-bike: $19
  • 1-Hour Good Morning Tallinn Running Tour: $19
  • Tallinn TV Tower: Fast-Lane Ticket: $19
  • Tallinn Bay Sightseeing Cruise: $22
  • Tallinn Day Cruise: TOWERS OF TALLINN: $22
  • Tallinn Ghost and Legends Walking Tour: $24
  • Tallinn Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $28

Tours and Activities in Oslo

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

  • 2 Hours Historic Grünerløkka Guided Tour in Oslo: $75
  • 3-Hour Norwegian Evening Cruise Aboard a Wooden Sailing Boat on the Oslo Fjord: $61
  • 7 hours Private Limousine tour combined Oslo & Tyrifjord including "The Twist": $684
  • 9-day Norway Camping adventure on minibus: $1,404
  • Best Private Walking Tour of Oslo with a Local Guide: $306
  • Best of Oslo Private Tour: $509
  • City Excursion (museums free). Tour of Oslo City’s Hidden Gems: $500
  • Cruise Pass Norway - a discount-benefits card in Norwegian cruise ports: $37
  • Hipstoric Grünerløkka Private Walking Tour: $160
  • Kon-Tiki Museum Entrance Ticket: $15
  • Local Hotspots Tour of Oslo: $38
  • Magical Norway - 6day private tour: $6,084

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallinn 15
    Oslo 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallinn

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

  • Pub Crawl: $33
  • Nudist Winery Wine Tasting and Winery tour in Tallinn: $44
  • Tallinn Brewery Fiesta: $77
  • Tallinn Guided Bar Crawl: $77
  • Tallinn Bar Crawl: $85
  • Tallinn Beer House Brewery Fiesta: $90
  • City tour Craft Brewery visit and tasting of craft beers ciders and cheeses: $90


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tallinn and Oslo, we can see that Oslo 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 Oslo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oslo than you might in Tallinn.


When is the best time to visit Tallinn or Oslo?

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 Oslo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Oslo. The summer months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

In July, Tallinn is generally around the same temperature as Oslo. Temperatures in Tallinn average around 17°C (62°F), and Oslo stays around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oslo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tallinn this time of the year. In the summer, Tallinn often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Oslo. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallinn 17°C (62°F) 
    Oslo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Oslo in the Autumn?

Both Oslo and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tallinn this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oslo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Tallinn is around the same temperature as Oslo in the autumn. The temperature in Tallinn is usually 7°C (44°F) in October, and Oslo stays around 7°C (45°F).

Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo during autumn. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Oslo. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallinn 7°C (44°F) 
    Oslo 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Tallinn during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tallinn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Oslo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Oslo can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Tallinn. In the winter, Tallinn is cooler than Oslo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallinn in January are around -5°C (22°F), and Oslo is about -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Oslo. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in January than Oslo. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallinn -5°C (22°F) 
    Oslo -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Oslo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Oslo. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oslo for the activities around the city during these months.

Tallinn can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Tallinn is generally cooler than Oslo. Temperatures in Tallinn average around 4°C (39°F), and Oslo stays around 6°C (42°F).

Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo during spring. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Oslo. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallinn 4°C (39°F) 
    Oslo 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Tallinn

Tallinn Oslo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (22°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb -6°C (22°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 7°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 1°C (34°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec -3°C (27°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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Tallinn vs. Oslo Travel Comparison

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