A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lillehammer vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Lillehammer or New York City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lillehammer or New York City, 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.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a sporty, natural, and adventure-filled city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Lillehammer travel costs.

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. New York City is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See New York City travel costs.

Lillehammer and New York City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Statue of Liberty


Is there more to do in Lillehammer or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although Lillehammer and New York City are both popular with visitors, New York City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New York City is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer is known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. New York City is more touristy than Lillehammer and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Lillehammer is popular for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Lillehammer different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer
New York City

Lillehammer is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, New York City is not a skiing destination.

Lillehammer offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. 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.

New York City is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lillehammer or New York City?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in New York City that are not to be missed. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Theater?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for theatre. However, Lillehammer is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in New York City. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Lillehammer is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Lillehammer or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, New York City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Lillehammer has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.


Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Nightlife?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

People head to New York City just to party. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

If you're looking for night time activities Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Music?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for live music. However, Lillehammer is not a live music destination.

New York City is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Lillehammer is not a live music destination.

Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer
New York City

Lillehammer is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

New York City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Lillehammer or New York City?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

New York City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Lillehammer or New York City More Beautiful?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Lillehammer is not a destination known for its beauty.

New York City is a gorgeous place to visit. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

Lillehammer is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Families?

Lillehammer
New York City

Lillehammer and New York City are both great destinations for the whole family.

Lillehammer is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, New York City is very family-friendly. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.


Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Couples?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

New York City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Lillehammer is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Students?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

New York City is a great destination for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

It's common for students to visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.


Is Lillehammer or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Lillehammer 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 New York City can get you around easily. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

While Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Lillehammer or New York City a more walkable city?

Lillehammer
New York City

New York City is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

For even more information, also check out Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Lillehammer?

How long in Lillehammer or New York City?

Both Lillehammer and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Lillehammer. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Lillehammer, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Lillehammer 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 New York City.


  • How many days in Lillehammer or New York City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lillehammer 2-4 
    New York City 3-7

One day in Lillehammer or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the sporty destination of Lillehammer. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

New York City is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Lillehammer or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lillehammer. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City is a one-of-a-kind big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Lillehammer or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the sporty destination of Lillehammer. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

New York City is a energetic city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Lillehammer or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Lillehammer. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, New York City or Lillehammer?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Lillehammer Prices
    Norway Prices
    New York City Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Lillehammer $99
    New York City $363

The average daily cost (per person) in Lillehammer is $99, while the average daily cost in New York City is $363. 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 Lillehammer and New York City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lillehammer $45
    New York City $175
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lillehammer $90
    New York City $350
Compare Hotels in Lillehammer and New York City

Looking for a hotel in Lillehammer or New York City? 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 Lillehammer


Hotels in New York City


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: Lillehammer Hotel Prices and New York City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lillehammer $4.99
    New York City $49

Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:


  • Subway
    $4.50
  • Taxi Ride
    $8.00
  • Subway
    $2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Limousine Transfer one-way - LaGuardia Airport - Lincoln MKT: $275
  • Airport Transfer: New York to Newark Airport EWR by Business Car: $165
  • Cape Cruise Port to J.F. Kennedy Airport (JFK)-Departure Transfer: $44
  • Cape Cruise Port to LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Central Park Private Walking Tour with Transfers : $171
  • Central Park Zoo Skip-the-line Tickets & Private Transfers: $291
  • Departure Transfer: New York to J.F. Kennedy Airport JFK in Sedan: $167
  • Departure Transfer: New York to New York Airport JFK in SUV: $177
  • Departure Transfer: New York to Newark Airport EWR by Luxury SUV: $177
  • EWR, LGA, JFK Private Airport Transfer in NYC with SUV or Sedan: $252
  • Empire State Building NYC Tour, Pre-booked Tickets, Transfer: $300
  • First Class Transfer from Manhattan to NYC Airports (JFK/EWR/LGA): $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Lillehammer or New York City?

Prices for flights to both New York City and Lillehammer 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
    Lillehammer $47
    New York City $87

Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Gelato
    $7.50
  • Snacks for Two at Yankees Game
    $34
  • Coffee
    $6.53
  • Smoothie
    $6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

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

  • East Village Noho Food Tour: $32
  • The Chinatown, Little Italy, Food Tour: $35
  • The Lower East Side Food Tour: $35
  • Sweets and Slices Greenwich Village Walking Food Tour: $49
  • New York City's Best Pizza tour: $59
  • Made in Brooklyn Food Tour: $65
  • Greenwich Village Pizza Walk: $75
  • Brooklyn Pizza Walk: $75
  • New York's Classic Eats West Village Food Tour: $75
  • New York's Classic Eats Lower East Side Food Tour: $75
  • Union Square Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $75
  • East Village Pizza Walk: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lillehammer $14
    New York City $180

Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Comedy Show Tickets
    $56
  • City Map
    $8.00
  • Broadway Musical
    $111
  • Broadway Show Program
    $10
  • Magazine
    $6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

For New York City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • New York's Hidden Gems: Self-Guided City Tour: $3.56
  • Central Park Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $4.75
  • Self Guided Central Park Bike or Walking Tour Application: $5.00
  • Broadway: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the World's Iconic Theatre District: $5.39
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in New York: $5.94
  • Brooklyn, NY Street Art Puzzle Quest: Self-Guided Tour: $5.94
  • New York City Audio Tour: $6.41
  • Self Guided "Central Park Movie Tour" Solo Walking Tour in New York City: $6.75
  • Private Haunted and Historic Audio Tour in Greenwich Village: $6.95
  • Luxury Horse and Carriage Tours in Central Park: $6.99
  • Central Park Outdoor Escape Adventure: $7.00
  • Movie Magic in Central Park: Self-Guided Puzzle Adventure: $7.09

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids, Things to Do in Central Park in NYC, and The Best Museums in New York City.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lillehammer $9.28
    New York City $29

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

  • Brooklyn Distillery Tour : $22
  • NYC Pub Crawl Experience: $24
  • Distillery Tour and Tasting: $25
  • NYC Pub Crawl Tour: $30
  • NYC Pub Crawl with Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $33
  • Top Shelf Distillery Tour: $33
  • New York Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Cheers to Chinatown Tour and Bar Crawl: $40
  • Brooklyn Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • Greenwich Village Piano Bar Crawl: $50
  • Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lillehammer and New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Lillehammer much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Lillehammer is in Europe and New York City is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Lillehammer would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lillehammer 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Lillehammer.

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


Which is Bigger, Lillehammer or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 420 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Lillehammer and New York City, 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.