If you're wondering how much it costs to visit Lillehammer, this travel cost guide can help you plan with confidence. Our Lillehammer trip cost calculator uses real travel cost data from thousands of previous visitors, including average hotel prices, food and dining costs, sightseeing and entertainment expenses, and transportation details. Lillehammer is an adventure-filled city known for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics, all of which have their own costs you should know about ahead of time. Whether you're skiing on the slopes, eating the delicious cuisine, or hiking in nature, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Lillehammer, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Lillehammer?
A typical traveler spends $106 (kr980) per day on a trip to Lillehammer. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Lillehammer based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $51 (kr471) on meals
- $5.36 (kr50) on local transportation
- $97 (kr900) on hotels
A one-week trip to Lillehammer for two people costs, on average, $1,483 (kr13,720). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Lillehammer expensive to visit?
In Lillehammer, budget travelers spend $42 (kr385) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $106 (kr980) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $273 (kr2,510) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Lillehammer.
Lillehammer is a smaller destination that invites a diverse group of visitors, each with unique travel styles, spending behaviors, and budget levels. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Lillehammer can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Lillehammer is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Kiev, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Avignon.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Lillehammer Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Lillehammer?
The average Lillehammer trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Lillehammer travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Lillehammer cost?
Lillehammer on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$19
(kr173)
|
$49
(kr450)
|
$130
(kr1,206)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$2
(kr22)
|
$5
(kr50)
|
$10
(kr97)
|
|
Food2
|
$20
(kr187)
|
$51
(kr471)
|
$128
(kr1,183)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$6
(kr58)
|
$15
(kr137)
|
$31
(kr290)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-6
(kr18-53)
|
$5-15
(kr46-138)
|
$14-41
(kr125-376)
|
Accommodation Budget in Lillehammer
The cost of hotels in Lillehammer can be surprisingly wide-ranging. Some hotels charge a lot more because they offer extra luxury and amenities. Prices are also much higher during peak season. Off-season rooms average $100, but the demand in peak winter season pushes that average to around $187. Budget hotels range from $81 to $226, and hostels provide a cheaper option, especially in dorms. Booking early, traveling off-season, or finding special deals can help save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Lillehammer for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $97 (kr900). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $49 (kr450) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Lillehammer? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Lillehammer's great public transit offers the flexibility to stay farther from the city, but be mindful that your transportation costs may increase, and it could be a time drain.
If you're traveling to Lillehammer with kids, you'll want to choose an apartment or accommodation with more space to enjoy.
If you're honeymooning in Lillehammer, you'll want to stay in a luxury hotel, and there are fantastic options like Hunderfossen Hotell & Resort and Birkebeineren Hotel & Apartments.
Traveling in the low or shoulder season (and not in winter) means you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists around.
Ski season can lead to rising prices, so it's wise to secure your bookings early. Popular places with easy access to the slopes fill up fast and might be expensive.
Transportation Budget in Lillehammer
The public transit in Lillehammer is quite good and serves many major spots. There are trains and buses throughout the region. Public transportation is a great money-saving choice if it's accessible to where you're headed. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available in town.
If you stick to certain areas, Lillehammer is fairly walkable, making it convenient to see the sights. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $5.36 (kr50) per person, per day, on local transportation in Lillehammer. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Lillehammer is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$5.36
kr50
The closest airport to Lillehammer is in Oslo, which is connected to the city by a train that leaves hourly and takes just shy of two hours. Some people choose to drive between Oslo and Lillehammer, but do keep in mind that this is often a longer option because there is frequent construction and road work. Once you arrive in Lillehammer you can walk almost anywhere. There are buses that cover the distance to outside destinations, so it is not necessary that you have access to a car.
Make sure your hotel provides easy parking options if you're driving.
How much does it cost to go to Lillehammer? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Lillehammer will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Lillehammer
Don't overlook the delicious food in Lillehammer. Make sure you take some time to savor all the local specialties. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Lillehammer can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Lillehammer is $51 (kr471) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$51
kr471
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Lillehammer is around $51 (kr471) per person, with previous travelers spending from $20 to $128. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Lillehammer are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $15
- Lunch: $8 to $20
- Dinner: $15 to $36
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
There are a small handful of restaurants and hotels or hostels around town. They cater to budget, mid range, or luxury travelers alike. If there is a festival or event in town then it is best to make reservations ahead of time as the limited facilities may fill up.
For a budget food options, check out Oylsund Kafe, which serves kebabs and fish dishes. Mid range options include Kanten Kro and Egon Restaurant. Kanten Kro has a great view that overlooks the city. Egon Restaurant has pizzas and a variety of other reasonably priced dishes. If you're looking for a fine dining experience, head to Paa bordet. This gourmet restaurant has good food and a great wine cellar.
When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.
Many establishments feature breakfast in their pricing, although some tack it on as an added expense. The price and quality can fluctuate depending on the hotel. Being aware of this beforehand helps you gauge if you'll need extra cash. The hotel buffet might be a delicious choice, or you could save some cash by heading to a nearby bakery or cafe.
Instead of constantly buying drinks, bring along a water bottle. It's also great for the planet.
Planning a tour? Be sure to confirm in advance which meals are provided. You could find yourself footing the bill for some meals, which can affect your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Lillehammer
It's not a shock that Lillehammer draws crowds, as it is known for its skiing, food, hiking, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Lillehammer typically cost an average of $15 (kr137) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$15
kr137
Specific sights in Lillehammer are often geared around the Olympics. Most of these sights are found in the commemorative Olympic Park. There's an Olympic Museum that is interesting to visit as well. You can also visit the ski jumping arena. It has a chairlift to the top and once you reach the top, the view of the city is excellent. You could also climb the 954 stairs to the top if you don't want to take the chairlift. If you've seen enough from the Olympics then there's also the Lillehammer Art Museum, or Maihaugen, which is Northern Europe's largest open air museum. It has 200 buildings that highlight traditional Norwegian styles and includes the Garmo stave church.
Just outside of town you'll find wonderful places for both downhill and cross country skiing. Lillehammer has been a wonderful winter sports destination for years, well before it hosted the Winter Olympics. During the summer months there are also some great places to go hiking.
If you're interested in shopping then you will enjoy walking around the city's main shopping street, Storgata. This literally translates to mean "Big Street" and it is a pedestrian-only street that has many wooden houses, unique boutiques, and interesting restaurants along it.
Sports clubs around town include the Lillhammer Ice Hockey Club, whose team competes in Norway's major hockey league, the Lillehammer Orienteering Club, the Ski Club, and the Speedskating Club.
Skiing:
If you're into skiing or snowboarding, Lillehammer is where you want to be. 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.
Hiking:
Get ready for some great hiking adventures near 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.
Nightlife Budget in Lillehammer
Though Lillehammer has some nightlife options, it's relatively quieter compared to other more popular cities. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $9.97 (kr92) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Lillehammer per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$9.97
kr92
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Stay sharp if you're out at night and enjoying a few drinks. You might attract pickpockets or worse, so stay close to friends you trust and avoid being alone.
Travel cost data last updated: Apr 30, 2026
Traveling in Lillehammer
Lillehammer, Norway
Most people know the name Lillehammer because it is the city that hosted the 1994 Olympics. While it's obviously a beautiful travel destination during the winter months when it's covered in snow and winter sport opportunities are abundant, it is also a lovely travel destination in the summer. It's a surprisingly small town with a population of around 25,000. It's streets are lined with quaint, wooden houses that date back to the 19th century. The town is located on the banks of Lake Mjosa. There's a nice shopping street that's called Storgata and cuts through the middle of the old town. It is pedestrian only, giving it a charming atmosphere and making it an enjoyable place to walk around. The town also has nice galleries and museums that are worth a visit.
Lillehammer region has a great ski terrain and plenty of winter sport facilities. Close by you can go to Nordseter and Sjusjoen where you'll find a great network of cross country ski trails that cover more than 350 kilometers. There is a great ski center at Hafjell, about fifteen minutes away, that has a nice mountain village atmosphere and ski in, ski out accommodation.
Lillehammer's climate is relatively dry although there is plenty of snow. Winters are cold and summers are warmer. You can expect the ground to be covered in snow between the months of November and April.
Neighborhoods & Around
Lillehammer itself is quite small. The surrounding region also has a lot to offer travelers. Gudbrandsdalen is the valley that falls between Lillehammer and Dovrefjell. There are several other towns that are located within the valley. Rondane National Park was the country's first national park. It was opened in 1962 and it has mountains, plateaus and valleys, making it very dramatic to visit. Jotunheimen National Park also has many good walking trails. There are great facilities with plenty of tourist cabins and marked trails in some areas, while other areas remain almost completely untouched.
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Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations for your budget when visiting Lillehammer is important. While it's tempting to aim for a shoestring budget, most travelers don't find that style of travel to be enjoyable. Think about your priorities and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer staying in budget accommodations or enjoying more luxurious options? Do you like to explore attractions and dine out at local restaurants? These choices will influence your travel costs and itinerary.
The Truth on Budget Travel
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $42 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Luckily, Lillehammer has plenty of hostels like Lillehammer Hostell. At these hostels, you can find affordable dorm beds and a vibrant social scene, but amenities tend to be quite limited. While food is a highlight for many in Lillehammer, budget travelers often resort to street food or self-catering in hostels, which can lead to missed opportunities for savoring the local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. When visiting Lillehammer, most people will want to check out the major attractions, museums, and iconic landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $106 per person, per day.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $273 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the city, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
