A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Grindelwald for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cesis or Grindelwald?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Grindelwald can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a natural, traditional, and quaint town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a high adrenaline, breathtaking, and beautiful town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Cesis and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cesis or Grindelwald?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Cesis and Grindelwald are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cesis is known for its historical sights. Grindelwald is more touristy than Cesis and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Cesis is popular for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Cesis different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cesis or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is well known for winter skiing. However, Cesis is not a skiing destination.

People head to Grindelwald specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and 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.

Cesis is not a skiing destination.

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

Grindelwald is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis 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.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Grindelwald is a town with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Grindelwald. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald is a town with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Grindelwald has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Grindelwald Better for its Old Town?

Cesis is a town with a few options for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Cesis or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is renowned for its hiking experiences. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Grindelwald visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Cesis offers some nice hiking trails. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Grindelwald?

Grindelwald is a town with a few options for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grindelwald has some nice offerings. 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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Grindelwald is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Is Cesis or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Grindelwald is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Grindelwald frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald is well known for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grindelwald is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

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

Grindelwald is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Grindelwald, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Cesis and Grindelwald both are good when exploring on foot.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable place. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cesis or Grindelwald to fill your time. In our opinion, Grindelwald has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Grindelwald than Cesis. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Cesis. 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 Cesis. 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 Cesis 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.

One day in Cesis or Grindelwald?

Cesis is a small town with plenty to do. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Grindelwald, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this beautiful small town offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Cesis or Grindelwald?

Cesis might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This town 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Grindelwald?

Because Cesis is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the small town destination of Grindelwald. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cesis or Grindelwald?

Since Cesis is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the beautiful small town of Grindelwald. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cesis or Grindelwald?

Cesis has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Cesis 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 Cesis 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 Cesis or Grindelwald in the Summer?

Both Grindelwald and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cesis in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cesis is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cesis in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. In July, Cesis usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cesis or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

Both Grindelwald and Cesis during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cesis for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cesis is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 7°C (45°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cesis usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cesis or Grindelwald in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Grindelwald. The winter months attract visitors to Cesis because of the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. The weather in Cesis can be very cold. Cesis is much colder than Grindelwald in the winter. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In January, Cesis usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cesis or Grindelwald in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Grindelwald. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cesis is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cesis in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Cesis usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Cesis