A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Odense vs. Lisse for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Odense or Lisse?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Odense and Lisse. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Odense

Odense is a progressive, beautiful, and historic city. Visitors also love the nightlife and food. See Odense travel costs.

Lisse

Lisse is a stunning, colorful, and picturesque town. You'll find world class beauty in Lisse as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Lisse travel costs.

Odense and Lisse: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Keukenhof Gardens


Is there more to do in Odense or Lisse?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisse. Although Odense and Lisse are both popular with visitors, Lisse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisse is more popular for its museums and attractions, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Odense is known for its nightlife. Lisse is more touristy than Odense and is popular for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. It is also home to the Keukenhof Gardens. Odense is popular for

How is Odense different from Lisse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Odense or Lisse?

Odense
Lisse

Lisse is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Odense does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lisse. There are a handful of museums in the area, like the Museum de Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip), which showcases the history and art of the Dutch flower-growing industry, including exhibits on tulips, bulbs, and floral culture. And, of course, there's the Keukenhof Gardens, which is the main draw to the area during the spring season and one of the most popular attractions in the Netherlands.

Odense does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Odense or Lisse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Odense
Lisse

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Odense and Lisse.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Odense area. You'll find local restaurants serving local favorites such as smoked salmon. You'll also find burger joints and international options such as sushi.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Lisse. The town has a variety of food options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants often serve classic Dutch dishes, such as poffertjes (mini pancakes) and bitterballen (fried meatballs), perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. In Keukenhof Gardens you'll find food stalls, trucks, and a cafe, but they can get crowded during peak times.

Is Odense or Lisse Better for Nightlife?

Odense
Lisse

Odense is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Odense for the nightlife scene. You'll find a number of bars and clubs around town. Many are conveniently close together so you can hit up several places in one night. Start your night at a pub before heading out dancing in the club a few hours later.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lisse. Most people don't think about nightlife when they visit town but there's a surprising number of thinks to do like cozy bars and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, especially in the town's central areas.

Is the Shopping Better in Odense or Lisse?

Odense
Lisse

Lisse is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Lisse to go shopping. The town offers a range of shopping opportunities, especially in its charming town center. You’ll find boutique stores, gift shops, and specialty shops selling local products, such as Dutch cheeses, flowers, and souvenirs.

Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Odense or Lisse More Beautiful?

Odense
Lisse

Lisse is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Odense is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lisse as well. Most visitors come for the Keukenhof Gardens, which are a breathtaking spectacle, renowned for their vibrant and meticulously arranged displays of millions of tulips and other flowers. The gardens are designed with picturesque pathways, tranquil ponds, and themed flower beds, making it feel like a living painting in every corner.

Odense is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Odense or Lisse Better for Families?

Odense
Lisse

Odense is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Odense is very family-friendly. As the home of Hans Christian Andersen, this town is a child's playhouse. You can visit the H.C. Andersen House, which will bring his fairytale mind to life. The city also has more than 200 playgrounds, an amazing zoo, and the Funen Village, which is an open air museum. There's also a castle to explore and paddle boating on the water.

Lisse is a family-friendly place to visit. The Keukenhof Gardens has a few things to keep the kids entertained, like a play area and boat rides. Some kids will also enjoy seeing the millions of colorful tulips and other flowers. For a more interactive experience, families can head to the Flowerstrip, where children can explore local farms and see how flowers are grown. Also near town is Lisse is the Duinrell theme park, which has thrilling rides and a water park that’s perfect for a family day out.

Is Odense or Lisse Better for Couples?

Odense
Lisse

Lisse is notable for couples. However, Odense is a mediocre city for romance.

Lisse is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy this area, especially during the spring when the Keukenhof Gardens come alive with vibrant tulip fields and flower displays. There are also boat rides through the nearby canals, surrounded by beautiful countryside. A visit to the nearby Keukenhof Castle provides a charming atmosphere, with its elegant gardens and tea room. perfect for relaxing together. Couples can also explore the local flower fields by bike.

Odense is not the best destination for a couple to visit. It's a charming city with a lot of green space and paddle boating on the water, but it lacks some of the romance that you find in many European cities.


Is Odense or Lisse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Odense
Lisse

Lisse is a good destination for backpackers. However, Odense is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Lisse. The entrance fee to Keukenhof Gardens can be a bit pricey, but there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy nearby, like cycling through the beautiful tulip fields or exploring the nearby countryside. Budget accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, can be found in Lisse or in nearby towns like Leiden, offering affordable options for travelers.

Odense is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel or two in town, but most backpackers don't make the time to visit this off-the-beaten-path destination.

Is Odense or Lisse Better for Students?

Odense
Lisse

Odense is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Lisse is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Odense. It's a charming and friendly city that makes a fun place to learn and live. There's a fascinating culture and a number of things to do.

Lisse is not popular with students.

Is Odense or Lisse Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Odense
Lisse

Lisse is a good destination for its public transit. However, Odense does not have public transit.

Lisse has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel from Schiphol Airport and elsewhere in the country to Keukenhof Gardens. It's best to book your tickets in advance.

Odense does not have public transit.


Is Odense or Lisse a more walkable city?

Odense
Lisse

Lisse is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Odense is not a walkable destination.

Lisse is a somewhat walkable town. Many visitors bike through the tulip fields outside of the Keukenhof Gardens. You could walk, but you'll cover more ground with a bicycle.

Odense is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Lisse or Odense?

How long in Odense or Lisse?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisse than Odense 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 Lisse.


  • How many days in Odense or Lisse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Odense 2-3 
    Lisse 1-2

One day in Odense or Lisse?

In Odense, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this historic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lisse. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Odense or Lisse?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Odense. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Lisse 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 Odense or Lisse?

Odense is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Odense. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisse. 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 Odense or Lisse?

You'll find food and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Odense. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the picturesque destination of Lisse. This town 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 2-Week Tours from Copenhagen, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Lisse or Odense?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Odense is $218, while the average daily cost in Lisse is $210. 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 Odense and Lisse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Odense $88
    Lisse $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Odense $176
    Lisse $186
Compare Hotels in Odense and Lisse

Looking for a hotel in Odense or Lisse? 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 Odense


Hotels in Lisse


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: Odense Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Odense $48
    Lisse $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisse

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

  • Private Transfer from Haarlem to cruise port in Amsterdam: $84
  • From The Hague: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $294
  • From Rotterdam: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $341

Is it cheaper to fly into Odense or Lisse?

Prices for flights to both Lisse and Odense 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
    Odense $97
    Lisse $95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisse

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

  • Haarlem's Food-steps: A self-guided Food Tour: $43
  • Guided Food Tour Haarlem (min. 2 persons) - Many local tastings : $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Odense $32
    Lisse $35

Tours and Activities in Odense

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

  • Odense Private Guided Walking Tour: $382
  • Craft Beer Walking Tour: $62

Tours and Activities in Lisse

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

  • Haarlem 2-Hour Walking Tour | Discover The City With A Local: $3.57
  • Haarlem Battle Quest: Self-Guided City Defense Adventure: $5.95
  • Pub Trail Haarlem: an adventure full of surprises: $13
  • Cultural and Historical Audio guided walking tour Tour of Haarlem: $16
  • Haarlem: 50 minutes Boat Cruise: $22
  • Leiden: Windmill and Countryside Cruise near Keukenhof: $23
  • Haarlem Open Canal Tour with a real live guide: $23
  • 90 minutes Self-Guided Walking tour with puzzles in Haarlem: $23
  • Drive-it-Yourself Summer Flower GPS Audio Tour: $29
  • Self-Drive Electric Car Dune and Beach Audio Tour: $29
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour Throughout History & Highlights of Haarlem: $29
  • Discover Haarlem with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Odense $24
    Lisse $27


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


Which is Bigger, Odense or Lisse?

Odense has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Lisse. When comparing the sizes of Odense and Lisse, 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.