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

Should you visit Belfast or Grindelwald?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or Grindelwald, 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.

Belfast

Belfast is a authentic, affordable, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife and shopping.

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.

Belfast and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Belfast or Grindelwald?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Belfast, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, museums, food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Belfast is more popular for its shopping and big city activities. Grindelwald is more touristy than Belfast and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery. Belfast is well known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Belfast different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Belfast or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Belfast
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a skiing destination.


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

Belfast
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Grindelwald offers a few options for museum-goers. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Belfast
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

Grindelwald offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Belfast
Grindelwald

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

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

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 Belfast or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Belfast
Grindelwald

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

Known for its hiking, Grindelwald draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Grindelwald?

Belfast
Grindelwald

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

Many visitors go to Belfast to go shopping. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

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 Belfast or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Belfast
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.


Is Belfast or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Belfast
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city 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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Belfast or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Belfast
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Grindelwald Better for Students?

Belfast
Grindelwald

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

Belfast is popular with students. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.


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

Belfast
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Belfast
Grindelwald

Belfast and Grindelwald both are notable when exploring on foot.

Belfast is somewhat walkable.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Belfast Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Grindelwald?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Grindelwald than Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Belfast 1-3 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Belfast or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the under-rated city of Belfast. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Belfast or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the under-rated destination of Belfast. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer.

Five days in Belfast or Grindelwald?

The under-rated city of Belfast offers nightlife and shopping. 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 great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Belfast or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Belfast. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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 Belfast?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Belfast is £133, 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 Belfast and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Belfast £68
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Belfast £136
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Belfast and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Belfast 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 Belfast


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: Belfast Hotel Prices and Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Belfast £14
    Grindelwald £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Belfast Airport BHD or BFS to Belfast by Luxury Car: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfer Belfast Airport BHD or BFS to Belfast by Luxury Van: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfer Belfast Airport BHD or BFS to Belfast by Minibus: $145
  • Belfast Accommodation to Belfast City Airport (BHD) - Departure Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $54
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Holywood Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $55
  • Belfast City Airport BHD Executive transfer to Belfast 1-4 people: $58
  • Belfast City to Belfast International Airport (BFS) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Belfast City - Arrival Private Transfer: $27

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: $179
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201

Is it cheaper to fly into Belfast or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Belfast 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
    Belfast £51
    Grindelwald £47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belfast

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Belfast.

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $81
  • Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Belfast £18
    Grindelwald £48
Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Belfast are as follows:


  • Movie Tickets
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in Belfast

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

  • Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Belfast's Iconic Sites: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.47
  • Museum Ticket: $6.90
  • Hillsborough Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $12
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour Belfast: $15
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour: $15
  • Crumlin Road Gaol Experience: $18
  • 2.5-Hour Street Murals Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Belfast Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Belfast Murals Political Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Line of Duty Guided Walking Tour: $21
  • Belfast Line of Duty Walking Tour: $22

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
    Belfast £7.86
    Grindelwald £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $15
  • Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
  • Explore & Taste: Distillery Tour at Titanic Distillers: $32
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $69
  • VIP Skip-the Line Titanic Museum and Distillery Tasting Tour: $119


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Belfast and Grindelwald, we can see that Grindelwald is more expensive. And not only is Belfast much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Belfast would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Belfast 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 Belfast.

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


Which is Bigger, Belfast or Grindelwald?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Grindelwald. Most visitors come to Belfast for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Belfast is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 15°C (59°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during summer. Belfast gets 151 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, Belfast usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Belfast 15°C (59°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Grindelwald. The autumn months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

Belfast is much colder than Grindelwald in the autumn. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Belfast usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Belfast 9°C (48°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Grindelwald. It's quite cold in Belfast in the winter. In the winter, Belfast is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the winter temperatures in Belfast in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Belfast usually receives around the same amount of rain as Grindelwald. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Belfast 4°C (39°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Belfast during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Belfast for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Belfast is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 8°C (46°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Belfast gets 150 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. Belfast usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Belfast 8°C (46°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Belfast

Belfast Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)