A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vienna vs. Lillehammer for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Vienna or Lillehammer?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Lillehammer, 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.

Vienna

Vienna is a musical, ritzy, and classical city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Vienna and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Lillehammer?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vienna. Although Vienna and Lillehammer are popular destinations, Vienna has more sights and attractions for tourists. Vienna is very popular for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Vienna is more touristy than Lillehammer and is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. It is also well known for The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Vienna different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Vienna is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Lillehammer. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Vienna is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Vienna or Lillehammer?

Vienna is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Vienna can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

Is the Food Better in Vienna or Lillehammer? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Vienna and Lillehammer can be an enjoyable experience.

Vienna has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Dining out in Lillehammer is an experience not to be missed. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Vienna and Lillehammer.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Vienna. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Lillehammer has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for Music?

Vienna is a world-class destination for live music. However, Lillehammer is not a live music destination.

Vienna is a world class music destination. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Lillehammer is not a live music destination.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Vienna is revered around the world. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Lillehammer. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Lillehammer?

Vienna is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Vienna is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lillehammer is very family-friendly. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Vienna is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Vienna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

Lillehammer is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vienna and Lillehammer are both nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Vienna. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Vienna is a world-class destination for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Vienna is a great destination for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

It's common for students to visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Vienna can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

While Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Vienna or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Vienna on foot is easy. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

For even more information, also check out Is Vienna Worth Visiting? and Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Vienna or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Vienna due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lillehammer.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vienna than Lillehammer 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 Vienna.

One day in Vienna or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the artistic city of Vienna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Lillehammer. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Vienna or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the classical destination of Vienna. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Lillehammer is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Vienna or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the classical city of Vienna. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lillehammer. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Vienna or Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Vienna. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the natural destination of Lillehammer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Vienna or Lillehammer?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Vienna and Lillehammer, 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.