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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Bergen?

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

Bergen

Bergen is a nostalgic, friendly, and laid back city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Bergen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Bergen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Bergen are popular destinations, Grindelwald has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grindelwald is very popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bergen attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Grindelwald is more touristy than Bergen and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also well known for the beautiful mountain scenery. Bergen is famous for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty.

The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Bergen Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is notable for snow skiing. However, Bergen 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.

Bergen is not a skiing destination.

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

Bergen 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 Bergen. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

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 Bergen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Bergen both to be nice 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 Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Grindelwald or Bergen Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Bergen has a few options to choose from. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

Is Grindelwald or Bergen Better for its Old Town?

Bergen is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Bergen offers a nice historic old town area. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Bergen Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Bergen is not a hiking destination.

People visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Bergen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Bergen?

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bergen. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

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 Bergen Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Bergen.

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.

Bergen is a very family-friendly destination. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Is Grindelwald or Bergen Better for Couples?

Both Grindelwald and Bergen are great 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.

Bergen is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

Is Grindelwald or Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Grindelwald or Bergen Better for Students?

Bergen is very good for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Bergen is popular with students. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Bergen 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 Bergen can get you to most places easily. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

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 Bergen a more walkable city?

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

Bergen is a very walkable destination. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore 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 Bergen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergen or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Bergen?

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

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

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

One day in Grindelwald or Bergen?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back city of Bergen. 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 Bergen?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the laid back destination of Bergen. 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 Bergen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The nostalgic city of Bergen offers shopping and museums. 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 Bergen?

Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bergen. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Bergen?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Bergen, 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 Bergen?

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 Bergen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Bergen. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bergen because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Grindelwald is much warmer than Bergen in the summer. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Bergen fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the summer. Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Grindelwald usually receives less rain than Bergen. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Bergen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Bergen. 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. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Bergen this time of year.

In the autumn, Grindelwald is much warmer than Bergen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Grindelwald in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Bergen averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets less rain in October than Bergen. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Bergen in the Winter?

Both Bergen and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bergen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bergen. It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. In January, Grindelwald is generally much warmer than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 5°C (41°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. In January, Grindelwald usually receives less rain than Bergen. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Bergen in the Spring?

Both Bergen and Grindelwald during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bergen in the spring for the small town charm.

Grindelwald is much warmer than Bergen in the spring. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Bergen fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Bergen. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergen and Grindelwald