A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Grindelwald for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Grindelwald? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a architectural, authentic, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Aberdeen and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aberdeen than Grindelwald, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aberdeen is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than Aberdeen and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Aberdeen is well known for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Also, Aberdeen is famous for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Aberdeen different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Aberdeen is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Aberdeen is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Aberdeen is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Aberdeen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Dining out at restaurants in both Aberdeen and Grindelwald can be an enjoyable experience.

Aberdeen offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Grindelwald has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Both Aberdeen and Grindelwald are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Grindelwald. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.


Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Aberdeen is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

People visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Aberdeen is very good for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Aberdeen to go shopping. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Grindelwald is a good destination for shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.


Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aberdeen or Grindelwald.

Aberdeen is a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Grindelwald is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor activities.

Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Grindelwald is a very popular place to visit for couples. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Grindelwald. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald Better for Students?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Aberdeen is very good for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Aberdeen is popular with students. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Both Aberdeen and Grindelwald offer notable public transit options.

Aberdeen has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Grindelwald has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Aberdeen or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Aberdeen
Grindelwald

Aberdeen is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Aberdeen is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Grindelwald is somewhat walkable. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.


For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Aberdeen 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 Grindelwald.


  • How many days in Aberdeen or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aberdeen 2-3 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of Aberdeen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Grindelwald is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grindelwald, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

The cultural city of Aberdeen offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Grindelwald is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aberdeen. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Grindelwald or Aberdeen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aberdeen is £121, while the average daily cost in Grindelwald is £194. 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 Aberdeen and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aberdeen £65
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aberdeen £130
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Aberdeen and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen or Grindelwald? 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 Aberdeen


Hotels in Grindelwald


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: Aberdeen Hotel Prices and Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aberdeen £34
    Grindelwald £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201

Is it cheaper to fly into Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Aberdeen 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
    Aberdeen £35
    Grindelwald £47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aberdeen £19
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

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

  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Skip the Line: The Gordon Highlanders Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $64
  • From Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee: $65
  • St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $67

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

Here are a few actual costs in Grindelwald for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aberdeen £3.57
    Grindelwald £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aberdeen and Grindelwald, we can see that Grindelwald is more expensive. And not only is Aberdeen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Aberdeen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aberdeen 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 Grindelwald would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Grindelwald than you might in Aberdeen.

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


Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Grindelwald, 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 Aberdeen or Grindelwald?

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 Aberdeen or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Grindelwald. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 14°C (58°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Aberdeen usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Grindelwald. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Aberdeen is much colder than Grindelwald in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Aberdeen usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Grindelwald can be very cold during winter. Aberdeen can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Aberdeen is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aberdeen in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Grindelwald. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Aberdeen during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 7°C (44°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Aberdeen usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Aberdeen

Aberdeen Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)