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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Basel?

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

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Basel

Basel is a historic, cultural, and museum-filled city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Basel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Basel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Basel are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm, while Basel is known for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Grindelwald is more touristy than Basel and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Basel is popular for its many museums and its nice old town.

The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Basel Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is notable for snow skiing. However, Basel is not a skiing destination.

People head to Grindelwald specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Basel is not a skiing destination.

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

Basel is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Basel specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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 Basel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Basel both to be good destinations.

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Basel. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Grindelwald or Basel Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Basel has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Grindelwald or Basel Better for its Old Town?

Basel is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Basel. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Basel Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Basel is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Grindelwald draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Basel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Basel?

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Basel. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

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 Basel Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Basel.

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.

Basel is a very family-friendly destination. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

Is Grindelwald or Basel Better for Couples?

Grindelwald is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Grindelwald is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Basel is a good town for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Grindelwald or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald is notable for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Basel is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Grindelwald or Basel Better for Students?

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

Basel is very popular with students. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Basel is well known for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Basel can get you to most places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

While Grindelwald offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Grindelwald or Basel a more walkable city?

Basel 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 Basel on foot is easy. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

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 Basel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Basel or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Grindelwald and Basel. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Basel than in Grindelwald. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 1-3 days is enough time in Basel.

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

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

One day in Grindelwald or Basel?

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 vibrant city of Basel. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Grindelwald or Basel?

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 historic destination of Basel. 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.

Five days in Grindelwald or Basel?

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 city of Basel 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 Basel?

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 Basel. 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.

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 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland.

When comparing the travel costs between Grindelwald and Basel, we can see that Grindelwald is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Basel?

Basel has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Basel, 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 Basel?

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 Basel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Basel. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Grindelwald is generally around the same temperature as Basel. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and Basel fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Basel this time of the year. In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Basel during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Basel. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Basel in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Basel. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Basel in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Basel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Basel fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Basel. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 120 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Basel. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Basel in the Winter?

Both Basel and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the winter for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Basel can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Grindelwald is much warmer than Basel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Basel averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Basel during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of rain as Basel. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Basel in the Spring?

Both Basel and Grindelwald during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Basel because of the natural beauty.

In April, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Basel. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and Basel fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Basel. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Basel. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Basel and Grindelwald