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

Should you visit Oslo 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 Oslo 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.

Oslo

Oslo is a green, clean, and progressive city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums. See Oslo travel costs.

New York City

New York City is a cosmopolitan, one-of-a-kind, and vibrant 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.

Oslo and New York City: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in New York City than Oslo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. New York City is more touristy than Oslo 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. Oslo is popular for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports.

How is Oslo 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 Oslo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Oslo. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

Is Oslo or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for theatre. However, Oslo 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.

Oslo is not a theatre destination.

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

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Oslo has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Oslo or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

New York City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Oslo. 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 Oslo or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Oslo 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.

Oslo is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oslo or New York City?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city 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.

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

Is Oslo or New York City More Beautiful?

New York City is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Oslo 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.

Oslo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Oslo or New York City Better for Families?

Oslo is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Oslo is very family-friendly. 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.

New York City is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Oslo or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

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 Oslo or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is notable for backpackers. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Oslo is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Oslo or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Oslo. 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.

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

Both Oslo and New York City offer world-class public transit options.

Public transit in Oslo is top-notch. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

New York City has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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.

Is Oslo or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around New York City on foot. 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.

Oslo is a very walkable city. 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 Oslo Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Oslo or New York City?

Both Oslo 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 Oslo. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Oslo, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

Families should spend more time in New York City than Oslo. 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 Oslo. 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 Oslo 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.

One day in Oslo or New York City?

Oslo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of New York City. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Oslo or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oslo. 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 fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Oslo or New York City?

Oslo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the vibrant big city of New York City. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Oslo or New York City?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Oslo. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the one-of-a-kind city of New York City. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Oslo and New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Oslo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Oslo 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 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 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 Oslo.

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

Which is Bigger, Oslo or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Oslo. When comparing the sizes of Oslo 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.

When is the best time to visit Oslo or New York City?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Oslo or New York City in the Summer?

Both New York City and Oslo during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to New York City in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Oslo is cooler than New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in Oslo averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

New York City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Oslo usually gets less rain in July than New York City. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oslo or New York City in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Oslo and New York City. Many visitors come to Oslo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to New York City for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Oslo is much colder than New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Oslo in October average around 7°C (45°F), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In October, Oslo usually receives more rain than New York City. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Oslo or New York City in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Oslo as well as New York City. Most visitors come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to New York City because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in New York City can be very cold. Oslo can be very cold during winter. In January, Oslo is generally much colder than New York City. Daily temperatures in Oslo average around -4°C (25°F), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

Oslo usually gets less rain in January than New York City. Oslo gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oslo or New York City in the Spring?

Both New York City and Oslo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Oslo because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

Oslo is much colder than New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in Oslo averages around 6°C (42°F) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In April, Oslo usually receives less rain than New York City. Oslo gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New York City and Oslo