Comparison · Oslo vs Stockholm · Norway / Sweden
Oslo vs Stockholm
Two great trips, different strengths. Here is how they compare on the things that decide it.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Orjanarvola, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
Choose Oslo for Oslo Opera House, Edvard Munch and free sights; choose Stockholm for Gamla Stan, Vasa Museum and lower day-to-day costs. Stockholm is generally less expensive, and the two are about 416 km apart.
Key facts
- Distance apart
- 416 km
- Less expensive
- Stockholm
- Best time for Oslo
- May–September
- Best time for Stockholm
- May–September
Side by side
| Oslo | Stockholm | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Norway | Sweden |
| Known for | Oslo Opera House, Edvard Munch and Vigeland sculptures | Gamla Stan, Vasa Museum and Archipelago |
| Best time to visit | May–September | May–September |
| Ideal stay | 3 days | 4 days |
| Mid-range budget per day | $250–$400 | $180–$320 |
| Cost level | Very expensive | Expensive |
| Warmest month | July, 22°C (72°F) | July, 24°C (75°F) |
| Coldest month | January, 0°C (32°F) | January, 1°C (34°F) |
| Free sights in our guide | 10 | 6 |
| Day trips in our guide | 6 | 7 |
| Beaches | Huk | Långholmen |
| Airports | OSL, TRF | ARN, BMA, NYO |
Which one is right for you?
Choose Oslo for…
Oslo Opera House, Edvard Munch and free sights. Oslo sits at the head of the Oslofjord, with a compact centre running from the Central Station along Karl Johans gate to the Royal Palace. The waterfront has been rebuilt over the past two decades: the marble Opera House, the MUNCH museum and the Deichman…
Choose Stockholm for…
Gamla Stan, Vasa Museum and lower day-to-day costs. Stockholm is built across 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic, so water and ferries are part of every day. The medieval lanes of Gamla Stan lead to the Royal Palace, the museum island of Djurgården holds the Vasa warship, Skansen and ABBA The…
Top sights compared
| # | Oslo | Stockholm |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oslo Opera House | Gamla Stan and Stortorget |
| 2 | MUNCH | Vasa Museum |
| 3 | National Museum | Skansen |
| 4 | Vigeland Park | Royal Palace |
| 5 | Akershus Fortress | Stockholm City Hall |
Food compared
| Oslo | Stockholm |
|---|---|
| Brown cheese | Swedish meatballs |
| Norwegian waffles | Cinnamon bun |
| Fish soup | Gravlax |
| Shrimp sandwich | Pickled herring |
Which is cheaper?
Stockholm is usually the less expensive of the two: a mid-range day costs about $180–$320 per person there, against $250–$400 in Oslo (AMZBooking estimates, excluding flights). Stockholm on a budget.
Can you visit both?
Yes. Oslo and Stockholm are about 416 km apart, so they combine well in one trip: allow 3 days in Oslo and 4 in Stockholm.
Questions travellers ask
+Is Oslo or Stockholm cheaper?
Stockholm is usually less expensive: about $180–$320 a day mid-range against $250–$400 (estimates).
+Is Oslo or Stockholm better for a first trip?
Pick Oslo for Oslo Opera House, Edvard Munch and free sights, or Stockholm for Gamla Stan, Vasa Museum and lower day-to-day costs.
+How far is Oslo from Stockholm?
About 416 km in a straight line.