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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Arles?

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 Grindelwald and Arles can help you decide which place is right for you.

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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and skiing.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Arles: Pros and Cons

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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Arles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arles. Although Grindelwald and Arles are popular destinations, Arles has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arles is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Grindelwald attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Grindelwald is more touristy than Arles and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. It is also well known for L'Amphithéâtre Romain.

How is Grindelwald different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Arles Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Arles

Grindelwald is well known for winter skiing. However, Arles 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.

Arles is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Arles

Arles 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 Arles on the map. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

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 Grindelwald or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Arles

Arles is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

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 Grindelwald or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Arles

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Grindelwald and Arles.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.


Is Grindelwald or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
Arles

Arles 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 Arles is revered around the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Arles Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Arles

Grindelwald is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

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.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Arles?

Grindelwald
Arles

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

Many visitors go to Arles to go shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

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 Grindelwald or Arles Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Arles

Grindelwald is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known 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.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Grindelwald or Arles Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Arles

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

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.

Arles is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Grindelwald or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Arles

Grindelwald is well known for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known 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.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.


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

Grindelwald
Arles

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Grindelwald and Arles.

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.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Grindelwald or Arles a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Arles

Arles is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Arles is a very walkable destination. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

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 Grindelwald Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Arles?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Arles 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 Grindelwald or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Grindelwald or Arles?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming town of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. 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.


A weekend in Grindelwald or Arles?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Arles. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Five days in Grindelwald or Arles?

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.

The historic town of Arles offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

A week in Grindelwald or Arles?

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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Grindelwald?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Grindelwald is $241, while the average daily cost in Arles is $152. 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 Grindelwald and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Arles $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Arles $152
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Arles? 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 Grindelwald


Hotels in Arles


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: Grindelwald Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Arles $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Grindelwald 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
    Grindelwald $58
    Arles $55

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    $4.82
  • Ice Cream
    $1.07

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Arles $33

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    $5.89

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Arles $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

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

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Arles, 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 Grindelwald or Arles?

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 Grindelwald or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Arles in the summer. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Arles. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Grindelwald during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Arles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Grindelwald in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Arles averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets less sunshine than Arles. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Arles. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Arles. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Grindelwald. In January, Grindelwald is generally cooler than Arles. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 5°C (41°F), and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Grindelwald usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Arles. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Arles. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the natural beauty during these months.

Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Arles in the spring. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. In the spring, Grindelwald often gets less sunshine than Arles. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the spring. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Arles. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)