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

Should you visit Warsaw or Alesund?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Warsaw and Alesund can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a cultural, historical, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Alesund

Alesund is a scenic, laid back, and welcoming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Warsaw 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
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Warsaw or Alesund?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Warsaw. Although Warsaw and Alesund are both popular with visitors, Warsaw has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Warsaw is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Alesund is known for its food. Alesund is more touristy than Warsaw and is popular for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords. Warsaw is popular for its historical position as a cultural and political center. It is also home to The Old Town Market Square.

How is Warsaw different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Warsaw or Alesund?

Warsaw
Alesund

Warsaw 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.

Warsaw offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

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 Warsaw or Alesund? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Warsaw
Alesund

Alesund is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Alesund. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

Is Warsaw or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Warsaw
Alesund

Warsaw 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.

Warsaw offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

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 Warsaw or Alesund Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw
Alesund

Warsaw is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Warsaw. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the old town.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Alesund?

Warsaw
Alesund

If you're looking to go shopping, Warsaw and Alesund both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Warsaw. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

Alesund offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Warsaw or Alesund Better for Families?

Warsaw
Alesund

Both Warsaw and Alesund are good to visit with kids.

Warsaw offers lots of family activities. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Alesund is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Warsaw or Alesund Better for Couples?

Warsaw
Alesund

Both Warsaw and Alesund are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Warsaw is a nice destination for couples. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

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 Warsaw or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Warsaw
Alesund

Warsaw is a popular place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Warsaw. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a 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 Warsaw or Alesund Better for Students?

Warsaw
Alesund

Warsaw is a well-known place for students. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Warsaw is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

Plenty of students visit Alesund. 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 Warsaw or Alesund Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Warsaw
Alesund

Warsaw 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 Warsaw can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

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


Is Warsaw or Alesund a more walkable city?

Warsaw
Alesund

Alesund is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Alesund?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Warsaw and Alesund. In our opinion, Warsaw has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Warsaw than Alesund. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Warsaw, and 2-3 days is enough time in Alesund.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Warsaw 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 Warsaw.


  • How many days in Warsaw or Alesund? Ideal Length of Stay
    Warsaw 1-3 
    Alesund 2-3

One day in Warsaw or Alesund?

In Warsaw, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Alesund. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Warsaw or Alesund?

In Warsaw, 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 Warsaw has to offer.

Alesund 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 Warsaw or Alesund?

Warsaw 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alesund. 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 Warsaw or Alesund?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Warsaw. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Warsaw. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Alesund. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Alesund or Warsaw?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Warsaw is $93, while the average daily cost in Alesund is $99. 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 Warsaw and Alesund in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Warsaw $51
    Alesund $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Warsaw $102
    Alesund $106
Compare Hotels in Warsaw and Alesund

Looking for a hotel in Warsaw 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 Warsaw


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: Warsaw Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Warsaw $4.67
    Alesund $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Warsaw

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

  • ONEWAY Private Warsaw Chopin Airport(WAW) to/from Warsaw Transfer: $24
  • Bus Transfer to/from Vilnus: $35
  • Warsaw Chopin Airport one way private transfer 5-8 PAX: $36
  • Warsaw Private Transfer from Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) to City centre: $41
  • Warsaw Private Transfer from Warsaw city centre to Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW): $41
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Warsaw APT-HTL (WAW): $42
  • Private Transfer from Warsaw Chopin Airport: $43
  • Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) to Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $44
  • Private transfer by social-distance car from or to Warsaw Chopin Airport: $44
  • Private Round-Trip Transfer: Warsaw Chopin Airport: $49
  • Indoor Paintball with Hotel Transfers: $55
  • Economy Private Warsaw Okecie Airport Transfer: $57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Geiranger Port: $185
  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund city centre to Aalesund airport: $135
  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund (AES) Airport to City centre: $135
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $71
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Olden Port: $64
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Olden Cruise Port: $60
  • Alesund to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES)-Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Molde Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Molde Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $37
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Warsaw or Alesund?

Prices for flights to both Alesund and Warsaw 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
    Warsaw $27
    Alesund $30
Typical Food Prices in Warsaw

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Warsaw:


  • Dinner for Two
    $13
  • Lunch for Two
    $10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Warsaw

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

  • Lunch or Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe with Skip-the-Line: $17
  • Warsaw's No 1 cooking class-Polish dumplings with liqueur tasting: $61
  • Polish Dumplings Cooking Class: $62
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class in Warsaw: $79
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class with liquor tasting in Warsaw: $89
  • Polish Food Tour: $92
  • Taste of Poland - Old Town food tour and guided walk in one: $94
  • 4-Hour Polish Food Tour: $109
  • The 10 Tastings of Warsaw With Locals: Private Food Tour : $117
  • EVERYDAY Warsaw Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156
  • Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Warsaw $7.00
    Alesund $16

Tours and Activities in Warsaw

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Warsaw.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.28
  • Walking Audio Tour of Wilanów Palace Grounds: $5.20
  • Uncover Historic Marvels of In-App Audio Tour: $5.32
  • Old Town Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Warsaw Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.00
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Smartphone Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews Ticket: $11
  • Warsaw Old Town In-App Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG): $12
  • Traditional Galar Cruise on The Vistula River: $15

Tours and Activities in Alesund

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

  • Ålesund Round Trip – A Great Kayak Adventure: $186
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $102
  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $42
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $42
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $111
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $125
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $140
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $121
  • Fjordcruise Ålesund Geirangerfjord T/R: $163
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $55
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Warsaw $10
    Alesund $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Warsaw

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Warsaw:

  • The Original Pub Crawl: $16
  • #1 Pub Crawl Warsaw with Premium Open Bar: $20
  • Pub Crawl with 1-Hour Open Bar: $20
  • Warsaw Wine Tasting Private Tour with Wine Expert: $176


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


Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Alesund?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw 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 Warsaw 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 Warsaw or Alesund in the Summer?

Both Alesund and Warsaw during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Alesund in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Warsaw is much warmer than Alesund in the summer. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 19°C (65°F) in July, and Alesund fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Warsaw usually gets less rain in July than Alesund. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Warsaw 19°C (65°F) 
    Alesund 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Alesund in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Warsaw and Alesund. Many visitors come to Warsaw in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Alesund for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Warsaw is around the same temperature as Alesund. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Warsaw in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Alesund averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Alesund receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Alesund. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Warsaw 9°C (49°F) 
    Alesund 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Alesund in the Winter?

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

The weather in Alesund can be very cold. Warsaw can be very cold during winter. In January, Warsaw is generally much colder than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around -3°C (27°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It's quite rainy in Alesund. Warsaw usually gets less rain in January than Alesund. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Warsaw -3°C (27°F) 
    Alesund 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Alesund in the Spring?

Both Alesund and Warsaw are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Warsaw because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Alesund this time of year.

It's quite cold in Alesund in the spring. Warsaw is much warmer than Alesund in the spring. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Alesund fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In April, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Alesund. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Warsaw 9°C (47°F) 
    Alesund 5°C (40°F)

Typical Weather for Alesund and Warsaw

Warsaw Alesund
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Feb -1°C (30°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 188 mm (7.4 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 187 mm (7.4 in)
Dec -0°C (31°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 4°C (38°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)