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

Should you visit Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include museums, theater, and nightlife.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a adventure-filled, high adrenaline, and breathtaking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Edinburgh and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Grindelwald?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh and Grindelwald are both popular with visitors, Edinburgh has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Grindelwald is known for its skiing, food, hiking, and small town charm. Edinburgh is more touristy than Grindelwald and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery.

How is Edinburgh different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Edinburgh is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Grindelwald. 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.

Edinburgh is not a skiing destination.

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

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Edinburgh on the map. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Grindelwald is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Grindelwald is not a theatre destination.

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

Grindelwald is a town with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

If you're looking for night time activities Grindelwald has a few options to choose from. 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 Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for Music?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

In Edinburgh you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Edinburgh is revered around the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

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.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Grindelwald?

Edinburgh is well known for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Grindelwald are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Grindelwald are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Edinburgh is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Grindelwald is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Is Edinburgh or Grindelwald Better for Students?

Edinburgh is well known for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Edinburgh and Grindelwald.

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if 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.

Is Edinburgh or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Edinburgh or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Edinburgh than Grindelwald because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant city of Edinburgh. 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.

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the charming destination of Edinburgh. 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 small town where visitors enjoy the food and skiing. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the charming city of Edinburgh. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Edinburgh. 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 popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, 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 Edinburgh and Grindelwald, we can see that Grindelwald is more expensive. And not only is Edinburgh much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Edinburgh would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Grindelwald?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Grindelwald?

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 Edinburgh or Grindelwald in the Summer?

Both Grindelwald and Edinburgh during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, 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, Edinburgh is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in July than Grindelwald. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Grindelwald. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, 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, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Grindelwald in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Grindelwald. The winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and 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 Edinburgh can be very cold. Edinburgh is much colder than Grindelwald in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Grindelwald. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Edinburgh is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Edinburgh