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

Should you visit Oslo or Seattle?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oslo or Seattle, 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 park-filled, green, and clean city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Oslo travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a laid-back, bustling, and progressive city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Seattle travel costs.

Oslo and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oslo or Seattle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seattle than Oslo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oslo is well known for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Oslo different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Oslo and Seattle have superb 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 Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Oslo or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Oslo is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Oslo is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle 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, Seattle makes for a great culinary experience. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

Seattle has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

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

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Oslo is not a live music destination.

Is Oslo or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Oslo is not a beach destination.

Seattle has a beach worth visiting. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Oslo is not a beach destination.

Is Oslo or Seattle Better for Hiking?

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

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Oslo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oslo or Seattle?

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

Seattle is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

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 Seattle More Beautiful?

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

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Oslo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Oslo or Seattle Better for Families?

Oslo is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Oslo or Seattle Better for Couples?

Oslo and Seattle are both notable to visit as a couple.

Oslo is a nice destination for couples. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Seattle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Oslo or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Oslo and Seattle are notable 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Oslo or Seattle Better for Students?

Oslo and Seattle are both superb destinations for students and younger travelers.

Oslo is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Oslo is renowned for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Oslo or Seattle a more walkable city?

Oslo and Seattle both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Oslo?

How long in Oslo or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Oslo and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than in Seattle. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Oslo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.

One day in Oslo or Seattle?

Because Oslo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Seattle. 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 Seattle?

Because Oslo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oslo has to offer.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Oslo or Seattle?

Oslo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oslo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find live music and food around the laid-back big city of Seattle. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Oslo or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oslo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Oslo. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The bustling city of Seattle offers food and shopping. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Oslo or Seattle?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Oslo and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Oslo or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Oslo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Oslo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In July, Oslo is generally around the same temperature as Seattle. Daily temperatures in Oslo average around 18°C (64°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oslo. Oslo usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Oslo gets 246 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Oslo usually receives more rain than Seattle. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Oslo or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Oslo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Oslo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Oslo is much colder than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Oslo averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Oslo often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Oslo gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Oslo usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Seattle. Oslo gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oslo or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Oslo and Seattle. Many travelers come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Oslo. In the winter, Oslo is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Oslo in January average around -4°C (25°F), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

Oslo usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during winter. Oslo gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Oslo usually receives less rain than Seattle. Oslo gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Oslo or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Oslo as well as Seattle. Many visitors come to Oslo in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Oslo is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Oslo average around 6°C (42°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In the spring, Oslo often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Oslo gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Oslo usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Oslo gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Oslo