A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vienna vs. Lofoten Islands for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Vienna or Lofoten Islands?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Lofoten Islands, 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 artistic, musical, and ritzy city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands is a pristine, charming, and quaint archipelago. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

Vienna and Lofoten Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Lofoten Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vienna than Lofoten Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vienna is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Lofoten Islands is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Vienna is more touristy than Lofoten Islands and is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Also, Vienna is famous for The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Lofoten Islands is well known for its dramatic mountain peaks, beautiful fjords, remote setting, and colorful houses.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Vienna different from Lofoten Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Vienna is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Vienna specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lofoten Islands. 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 Vienna or Lofoten Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Vienna and Lofoten Islands 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 Lofoten Islands is an experience not to be missed. 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 Vienna or Lofoten Islands Better for Nightlife?

Vienna is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Vienna. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

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 Vienna or Lofoten Islands Better for Music?

Vienna is very popular for its live music scene. However, Lofoten Islands is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Vienna 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.

Lofoten Islands is not a live music destination.

Is Vienna or Lofoten Islands Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Lofoten Islands. 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.

Vienna is not a beach destination.

Is Vienna or Lofoten Islands Better for its Old Town?

Vienna is very popular for its old town. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its historic old town charm.

Vienna has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Many visitors go to Lofoten Islands to see the historical old town. The islands are filled with well-preserved fishing villages that are charming and quaint.

Is Vienna or Lofoten Islands Better for Hiking?

Lofoten Islands is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Lofoten Islands draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Lofoten Islands?

Vienna is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lofoten Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Vienna make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

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

Is Vienna or Lofoten Islands Better for Families?

Lofoten Islands 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, Lofoten Islands is very family-friendly. 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 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 Lofoten Islands Better for Couples?

Vienna and Lofoten Islands are both terrific to visit as a couple.

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.

Lofoten Islands is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

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

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

Many backpackers visit Lofoten Islands. There are plenty of hostels around but transportation can be a bit tricky.

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

Is Vienna or Lofoten Islands Better for Students?

Vienna is very popular for students. However, Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Vienna. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Lofoten Islands is not popular with students.

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

Vienna is very popular for its public transit. However, Lofoten Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Vienna has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

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

Is Vienna or Lofoten Islands a more walkable city?

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

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

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 Vienna Worth Visiting? and Is Lofoten Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lofoten Islands or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Lofoten Islands?

Both Vienna 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 Vienna. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 4-7 days is enough time in Lofoten Islands.

Families should spend more time in Lofoten Islands than Vienna. 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 Vienna than Lofoten Islands. 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 Lofoten Islands 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 Lofoten Islands?

The traditional destination of Vienna offers live music and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lofoten Islands. 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 Lofoten Islands?

The city of Vienna offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Lofoten Islands is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Vienna or Lofoten Islands?

Vienna is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lofoten Islands. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Vienna or Lofoten Islands?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vienna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Lofoten Islands. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Oslo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Vienna and Lofoten Islands, we can see that Vienna 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 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 Lofoten Islands.

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