A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Windsor vs. Oslo for Families, Attractions, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Windsor or Oslo?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Oslo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Oslo

Oslo is a clean, progressive, and park-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Windsor or Oslo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oslo. Although Windsor and Oslo are popular destinations, Oslo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oslo is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Windsor attracts visitors for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Windsor is famous for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Oslo is famous for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. It is also well known for The Royal Palace.

How is Windsor different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Oslo?

Windsor
Oslo

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Windsor and Oslo.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

Many visitors head to Oslo specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.


Is the Food Better in Windsor or Oslo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Oslo

Foodies will find both Windsor and Oslo both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Oslo is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Windsor or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Oslo

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Windsor and Oslo.

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

If you're looking for night time activities Oslo has a few options to choose from. 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 Windsor or Oslo Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Oslo

Windsor is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Windsor to see the historical old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Oslo?

Windsor
Oslo

Oslo is a city with a few options for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Oslo Better for Families?

Windsor
Oslo

Oslo is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Oslo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Oslo Better for Couples?

Windsor
Oslo

Windsor is notable for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Windsor is a very popular place to visit for couples. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Oslo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.


Is Windsor or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Oslo

Oslo is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Oslo. 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Oslo Better for Students?

Windsor
Oslo

Oslo is well known for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Oslo is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

Is Windsor or Oslo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Windsor
Oslo

Oslo is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Windsor 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 Oslo can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.


Is Windsor or Oslo a more walkable city?

Windsor
Oslo

Windsor and Oslo both are very good when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Oslo?

In either Windsor or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than Windsor because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oslo than Windsor 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 Oslo.


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

One day in Windsor or Oslo?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Windsor or Oslo?

Windsor is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Windsor or Oslo?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. 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 Windsor or Oslo?

Because Windsor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Oslo or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Oslo is £109. 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 Windsor and Oslo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Oslo £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Oslo £130
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Oslo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Oslo £19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo

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


  • Tram Ticket
    £5.28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Airport & City Transfers in Trondheim: $131
  • Arrival Private Transfer Oslo OSL Airport to Oslo by Business Car: $115
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL by Luxury Van: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo to Oslo Airport OSL by Business Car: $114
  • Olso: Private Transfer from the City Center to Oslo Airport: $106
  • Oslo Airport (OSL): Private Transfer to Oslo Cruise Port: $486
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Car: $148
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Van: $229
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Car: $147
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Van: $238
  • Oslo Cruise Port to Oslo Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Oslo Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Oslo hotels: $129

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Oslo £24
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oslo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Oslo.

  • Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner: $58
  • Oslofjord Dinner Cruise on a sailing ship : $61
  • Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $74
  • Christmas Street Food Tour with Akevitt and Christmas beer : $112
  • 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $117
  • Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $121

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Oslo £15

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

Tours and Activities in Oslo

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

  • Explore Oslo with Passionate Tour Guides: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Walking Tour in Oslo in English: $4.41
  • Tour a Pie en Oslo en Español: $4.41
  • Digging up the Past in Røros: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Akershus to Kongen Marina Waterfront: $7.99
  • An Oslo Waterfront Stroll: Self-paced Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Downtown Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Oslo Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
  • Discover Oslo's Heart: Audio Tour Through Time and Beauty: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Fram Museum Admission Ticket: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Oslo £8.82


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Oslo?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor and Oslo, 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 Windsor or Oslo?

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 Windsor or Oslo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Oslo. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Oslo in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Windsor is generally around the same temperature as Oslo. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 18°C (64°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oslo this time of the year. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Oslo during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Oslo. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Oslo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Oslo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Oslo. Many visitors come to Windsor in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Oslo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Windsor is much warmer than Oslo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Oslo. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Oslo 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Oslo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Oslo can be very cold. Windsor can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Windsor is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Windsor in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Oslo averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives around the same amount of rain as Oslo. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Oslo -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Oslo in the Spring?

Both Oslo and Windsor during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

In April, Windsor is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 9°C (48°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Oslo. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Oslo. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Oslo 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Windsor

Windsor Oslo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)