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

Should you visit Warsaw or Flam?

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 Flam 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 diverse, cultural, and historical 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Flam

Flam is a beautiful, natural, and breathtaking village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Warsaw and Flam: 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
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Warsaw or Flam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Warsaw. Although Warsaw and Flam are both popular with visitors, Warsaw has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Warsaw is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Flam is known for its food, hiking, and small town charm. Flam is more touristy than Warsaw and is known for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port. 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 Flam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Warsaw
Flam

Warsaw is a great city for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Warsaw. 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.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.


Is the Food Better in Warsaw or Flam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Warsaw
Flam

Flam is a great village 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 Flam. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants as well.

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 Flam Better for Nightlife?

Warsaw
Flam

Warsaw is a great city for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Warsaw has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.

Is Warsaw or Flam Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw
Flam

Warsaw is a great city for its historic old town. However, Flam does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Flam does not have a historic old town.


Is Warsaw or Flam Better for Hiking?

Warsaw
Flam

Flam is a great village for hiking. However, Warsaw is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Flam for the hiking trails. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Warsaw is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Flam?

Warsaw
Flam

Warsaw is a good destination for shopping. However, Flam is not known for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.

Is Warsaw or Flam Better for Families?

Warsaw
Flam

Flam is a great village for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Flam is a very family-friendly destination. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.

Warsaw is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.


Is Warsaw or Flam Better for Couples?

Warsaw
Flam

Flam is a great village for romance. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Flam is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.

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

Is Warsaw or Flam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Warsaw
Flam

For backpackers, both Warsaw and Flam are good places to visit.

Warsaw is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Warsaw or Flam Better for Students?

Warsaw
Flam

Warsaw is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Flam is not popular with students.

Many students visit Warsaw. 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.

Flam is not popular with students.


Is Warsaw or Flam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Warsaw
Flam

Warsaw is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its public transit.

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

Flam has a few public transit options. There is a local bus service through the area.

Is Warsaw or Flam a more walkable city?

Warsaw
Flam

Flam is a great village for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

Flam is very walkable. There are many great walks in the area.

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 Flam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Flam or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Flam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Warsaw or Flam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Warsaw than Flam because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Warsaw, and 1-2 days is enough time in Flam.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Warsaw than Flam 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 Flam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Warsaw 1-3 
    Flam 1-2

One day in Warsaw or Flam?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Warsaw. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Flam might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Warsaw or Flam?

Warsaw 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.

Flam 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 Flam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Warsaw. 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.

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

The under-rated city of Warsaw 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.

Flam is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This village 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 Sightseeing Tours in Poland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow, The Best Adventure Tours to Norway, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Flam 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 Flam is $111. 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 Flam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Warsaw $51
    Flam $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Warsaw $102
    Flam $116
Compare Hotels in Warsaw and Flam

Looking for a hotel in Warsaw or Flam? 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 Flam


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
    Flam $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Warsaw

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

  • from Warsaw to Krakow private transfer: $495
  • Private Transfer to/from Krakow: $446
  • Private Full-Day Tour of Warsaw with Tickets and Transfers: $293
  • Private Transfer from Warsaw to Wroclaw with 2h of Sightseeing: $262
  • Chopin Airport One–Way Limousine Transfer: $248
  • Warsaw City/Airport Okecie: Private Transfer from/to Krakow: $248
  • Private Transfer from Warsaw to Krakow with 2h of Sightseeing: $247
  • Warsaw to Krakow or Krakow Airport Transfer Best Value: $240
  • Wilanow Palace and Gardens with Guide, Tickets and Transfers: $211
  • Private Transfer from Warsaw to Gdansk with 2h of Sightseeing: $193
  • Private transfer from Warszawa to Krakow: $191
  • Extreme Shooting Range Experience with Transfers: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Warsaw or Flam?

Prices for flights to both Flam 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
    Flam $36
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
    Flam $17

Tours and Activities in Warsaw

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

  • 2 Hour Super Segway City Tour of Warsaw: $67
  • 2-Hour Breakfast Experience in a Home from Warsaw: $49
  • 3 Hour VIP Warsaw Guided City Tour: $207
  • 3-Hour Guided Cycling Tour of Warsaw: $37
  • 6 Hour Private Car Tour to Treblinka With Hotel Pickup: $305
  • Architecture Walking Tour in Warsaw: $76
  • BIKE ADVENTURE : 4-hour sightseeing tour of Warsaw /inc. Pick-up/: $97
  • Best of Warsaw - private tour by retro minibus with hotel pickup: $131
  • Best of Warsaw Full-Day Private Tour with Private Transport: $154
  • Best of Warsaw Full-Day Private Tour with Private Transport: $154
  • Chopin's Warsaw - guided tour in a minivan with evening piano concert: $67
  • Chopin’s Warsaw - City tour in the footsteps of Frédéric Chopin: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Warsaw $10
    Flam $3.68

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

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


Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Flam?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 3400 times larger than the population of Flam. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw and Flam, 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 Flam?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Warsaw or Flam in the Summer?

Both Flam and Warsaw are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Warsaw this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Flam for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Warsaw is a little warmer than Flam in the summer. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 19°C (65°F) in July, and Flam fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. In July, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Flam. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Flam receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Warsaw 19°C (65°F) 
    Flam 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Flam in the Autumn?

Both Flam and Warsaw during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Flam in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Warsaw usually gets less rain in October than Flam. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Flam receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Warsaw or Flam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Warsaw and Flam. Many visitors come to Warsaw in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Flam for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Flam can be very cold during winter. Warsaw can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Warsaw is generally much colder than Flam. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around -3°C (27°F), and Flam fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Flam receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Flam. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Flam receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Warsaw -3°C (27°F) 
    Flam 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Warsaw or Flam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Warsaw as well as Flam. Most visitors come to Warsaw for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Flam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Warsaw is a little warmer than Flam in the spring. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Flam fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It's quite rainy in Flam. Warsaw usually gets less rain in April than Flam. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Flam receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Warsaw 9°C (47°F) 
    Flam 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Flam and Warsaw

Warsaw Flam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Feb -1°C (30°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in)
Dec -0°C (31°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in)