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

Should you visit Dover or Grindelwald?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dover and Grindelwald can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a breathtaking, iconic, and rustic town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include skiing, nightlife, and food.

Dover and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Dover or Grindelwald?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Dover and Grindelwald are popular destinations, Grindelwald has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grindelwald is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Dover attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than Dover and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also well known for the beautiful mountain scenery. Dover is famous for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Dover different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dover or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Dover
Grindelwald

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

Grindelwald is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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.

Dover is not a skiing destination.


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

Dover
Grindelwald

Dover is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dover. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

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 Dover or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dover
Grindelwald

Foodies will find both Dover and Grindelwald both to be nice destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dover area. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Grindelwald. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Dover or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Dover
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is very good for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.


Is Dover or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Dover
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Grindelwald?

Dover
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a moderate town for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Grindelwald has some good spots for those that want to go 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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Dover
Grindelwald

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

Grindelwald is known to be 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.

Dover is a family-friendly town. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.


Is Dover or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Dover
Grindelwald

Both Dover and Grindelwald are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Dover is a very popular place to visit for couples. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Grindelwald makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Dover or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dover
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grindelwald is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

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

Dover
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is very good for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town 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 Dover. There are public buses through the district.


Is Dover or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Dover
Grindelwald

Dover and Grindelwald both are nice when exploring on foot.

Dover is a somewhat walkable town. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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 Dover Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Dover?

How long in Dover or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Dover or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Dover than Grindelwald because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Dover. 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 Dover. 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 Dover 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 Dover or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dover 2-4 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Dover or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the breathtaking town of Dover. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Dover or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the stunning destination of Dover. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Dover or Grindelwald?

The natural town of Dover offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Dover or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Dover. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grindelwald is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in 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 Dover?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dover is £124, 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 Dover and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dover £62
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dover £124
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Dover and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Dover 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 Dover


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: Dover Hotel Prices and Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dover £39
    Grindelwald £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $254
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210

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 Dover or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Dover 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
    Dover £38
    Grindelwald £47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dover £20
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Dover

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

  • Pilgrims and Pit Stops: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Canterbury: $5.99
  • The Condensed Canterbury Tour: $13
  • The Canterbury Classic Tour: $16
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 14.00 Tour: $19
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 11.00 Tour: $19
  • Small-Group City Running Tour in Canterbury: $27
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury: $153
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177

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
    Dover £7.71
    Grindelwald £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dover:

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $178


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

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


Which is Bigger, Dover or Grindelwald?

Dover has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Grindelwald. The summer months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

Dover is cooler than Grindelwald in the summer. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. In Dover, it's very sunny this time of the year. Dover usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during summer. Dover gets 212 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, Dover usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dover 17°C (63°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Dover or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dover as well as Grindelwald. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dover this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Dover is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dover in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Dover often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Dover usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dover 12°C (54°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Dover or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dover for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the winter for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Dover. In January, Dover is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 4°C (40°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Dover usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dover usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dover 4°C (40°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Dover or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Dover during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dover in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Dover is much colder than Grindelwald in the spring. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Dover often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Dover gets 162 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. Dover usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dover 9°C (47°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Dover

Dover Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)