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

Should you visit Oslo or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oslo or San Diego, 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 progressive, park-filled, and green city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, museums, and nightlife. See Oslo travel costs.

San Diego

San Diego is a relaxed, outdoorsy, and idyllic coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. San Diego is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping. See San Diego travel costs.

Oslo and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oslo or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than Oslo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Oslo attracts visitors for its big city activities. San Diego is more touristy than Oslo and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Oslo is famous for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports.

How is Oslo different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Diego 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 San Diego?

Both Oslo and San Diego have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oslo can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

San Diego is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Diego makes for a great culinary experience. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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 San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is notable for live music. However, Oslo is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Oslo is not a live music destination.

Is Oslo or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Oslo is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Oslo is not a resort destination.

Is Oslo or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Oslo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Oslo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Oslo or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. However, Oslo is not a beach destination.

The beaches in San Diego are among the best in the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Oslo is not a beach destination.

Is Oslo or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Oslo is not a hiking destination.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Oslo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oslo or San Diego?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

San Diego is a great destination for shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

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 San Diego More Beautiful?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Oslo is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Diego is a gorgeous place to visit. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Oslo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Oslo or San Diego Better for Families?

Oslo and San Diego are both world-class destinations for the whole family.

Oslo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

San Diego is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Is Oslo or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Oslo and San Diego are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

San Diego is a good city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Oslo or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for students. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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 San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oslo is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

Oslo has a great public transit system. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Oslo or San Diego a more walkable city?

Oslo is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Oslo?

How long in Oslo or San Diego?

In either Oslo or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, San Diego has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Diego than Oslo. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Oslo, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Oslo or San Diego?

People visit Oslo because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oslo has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Diego. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 San Diego?

People visit Oslo because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 San Diego?

People visit Oslo because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the hip destination of San Diego. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 San Diego?

Oslo is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The energetic coastal city of San Diego offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Oslo and San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego 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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Oslo or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Oslo. When comparing the sizes of Oslo and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Oslo as well as San Diego. Many travelers come to Oslo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Oslo is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Oslo in July average around 18°C (64°F), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oslo this time of the year. In the summer, Oslo often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Oslo gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

Oslo usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oslo or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Oslo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Oslo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Oslo is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Oslo average around 7°C (45°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Oslo usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during autumn. Oslo gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Oslo usually receives more rain than San Diego. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Oslo or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Oslo during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Oslo can be very cold during winter. Oslo is much colder than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Oslo averages around -4°C (25°F) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Oslo often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Oslo gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Oslo usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as San Diego. Oslo gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oslo or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Oslo and San Diego. The spring months attract visitors to Oslo because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In the spring, Oslo is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Oslo in April average around 6°C (42°F), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Oslo usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during spring. Oslo gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Oslo usually receives more rain than San Diego. Oslo gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Oslo