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

Should you visit Dover or Interlaken?

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 Interlaken can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a breathtaking, iconic, and rustic town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a breathtaking, world-class, and stunning town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include hiking, skiing, and food.

Dover and Interlaken: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Dover or Interlaken?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Interlaken than Dover, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Interlaken is better known for its skiing, food, hiking, and quaint atmosphere, while Dover is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Interlaken is more touristy than Dover and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Also, Interlaken is famous for its many mountain views.. Dover is well known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Dover different from Interlaken?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dover or Interlaken Better for Skiing?

Dover
Interlaken

Interlaken is very good for snow skiing. However, Dover is not a skiing destination.

Head to Interlaken for some great skiing and other winter activities. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Dover is not a skiing destination.


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

Dover
Interlaken

Dover is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Dover or Interlaken? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dover
Interlaken

Interlaken is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Interlaken is an experience not to be missed. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dover. 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.

Is Dover or Interlaken Better for Nightlife?

Dover
Interlaken

Dover is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Dover or Interlaken Better for Hiking?

Dover
Interlaken

Interlaken 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 Interlaken specifically for its hiking. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

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 Dover or Interlaken Better for Families?

Dover
Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is one of the most popular family destinations. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken Better for Couples?

Dover
Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Interlaken has plenty to offer. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

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


Is Dover or Interlaken Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dover
Interlaken

Both Dover and Interlaken are notable destinations for backpackers.

Dover is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

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

Dover
Interlaken

Interlaken is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Interlaken can get you to most places easily. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Dover or Interlaken a more walkable city?

Dover
Interlaken

Dover and Interlaken both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Interlaken is somewhat walkable. The old town is relatively walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Dover Worth Visiting? and Is Interlaken Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Interlaken or Dover?

How long in Dover or Interlaken?

In either Dover or Interlaken, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Interlaken than Dover because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 2-5 days is enough time in Interlaken.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Interlaken 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 Interlaken.


  • How many days in Dover or Interlaken? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dover 2-4 
    Interlaken 2-5

One day in Dover or Interlaken?

With museums and food around the natural town of Dover, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Interlaken, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this world-class destination 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Dover or Interlaken?

With food and museums around the destination of Dover, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. 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 Interlaken?

Dover, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Interlaken is a fun place to experience. In Interlaken, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Dover or Interlaken?

Dover is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and skiing around the breathtaking destination of Interlaken. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich.


Which place is cheaper, Interlaken 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 Interlaken is £186. 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 Interlaken in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dover £62
    Interlaken £107
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dover £124
    Interlaken £214
Compare Hotels in Dover and Interlaken

Looking for a hotel in Dover or Interlaken? 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 Interlaken


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 Interlaken Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dover £39
    Interlaken £10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Interlaken

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Interlaken are as follows:


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    £53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

Also for Interlaken, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $160
  • Private Transfer from Interlaken to Zurich: $240
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $284
  • Private Group transfer Zurich Airport - Interlaken: $1,312

Is it cheaper to fly into Dover or Interlaken?

Prices for flights to both Interlaken 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
    Interlaken £52

Typical Food Prices in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    £26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland: $143
  • Cheese and Chocolate Full-Day Food Tour: $733

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dover £20
    Interlaken £84

Tours and Activities in Dover

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

  • Canterbury Landmarks Private Walking Tour: $218
  • Canterbury Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $276
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Canterbury's World Heritage Sites Guided Walking Tour: $229
  • Christmas Tales in Canterbury – Private Walking Tour: $217
  • Dover & White Cliffs Tour; Canterbury, Coastal Towns & Castles: $210
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • From London: Dover Castle and White Cliffs Tour by Car: $1,083
  • Literary & Cultural Heritage: Canterbury Private Walking Tour: $218

Tours and Activities in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Hofstetten bei Brienz: Trauffer Erlebniswelt Ticket: $16
  • Private Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Express Tour from Interlaken: $29
  • Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm: $42
  • Rope Park Climbing Adventure with Entry Ticket: $46
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder: $86
  • Bollywood Tour Gstaad - Express Tour: $90
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder (Top of Interlaken): $102
  • Interlaken Valley Bike Tour: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $108
  • Bike Tour of the Interlaken Valley: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $111
  • Waterfalls Day Tour: $119

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dover £7.71
    Interlaken £14

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 Interlaken, we can see that Interlaken 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken 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 Interlaken Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Dover or Interlaken?

Dover has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Dover and Interlaken, 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 Interlaken?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dover or Interlaken in the Summer?

Both Interlaken and Dover during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year.

In the summer, Dover is cooler than Interlaken. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dover in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Interlaken averages at about 21°C (70°F).

In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Dover. In the summer, Dover often gets less sunshine than Interlaken. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 241 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in July than Interlaken. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dover 17°C (63°F) 
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Dover or Interlaken in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Interlaken. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dover this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Dover is generally around the same temperature as Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 12°C (54°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Dover usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Interlaken during autumn. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dover usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dover 12°C (54°F) 
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Dover or Interlaken in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dover as well as Interlaken. Many travelers come to Dover for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Interlaken in the winter for the skiing and the cuisine.

Interlaken can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Dover. Dover is a little warmer than Interlaken in the winter. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Interlaken fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Dover often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Interlaken. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 55 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in January than Interlaken. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dover 4°C (40°F) 
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Dover or Interlaken in the Spring?

Both Interlaken and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dover in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Interlaken for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Dover is cooler than Interlaken. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dover in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Interlaken averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Dover usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during spring. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dover usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dover 9°C (47°F) 
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Interlaken and Dover

Dover Interlaken
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)