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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Bern?

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 Bern 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Bern

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

Grindelwald and Bern: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Bern?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Bern, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm, while Bern is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Grindelwald is more touristy than Bern and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery. Bern is well known for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory.

The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Bern?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Bern Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Bern is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other 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.

Bern is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Many visitors head to Bern specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with architecture and charming character. While you're in town make sure you visit the Einstein Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Bern Cathedral.

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 Bern? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Bern both to be notable 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 Bern. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

Is Grindelwald or Bern Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Bern has a few options to choose from. There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.

Is Grindelwald or Bern Better for its Old Town?

Bern 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 Bern. The charming old town is filled with quaint alleys and sandstone buildings. It's a compact area that flows down a hill to the River Aare.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Bern Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Bern 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.

Bern is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Bern?

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bern. The old town is filled with boutique shops and unique markets. The main shopping streets are Spitalgasse and Marktgasse and popular items to buy include jewelry, art, and watches.

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 Bern Better for Families?

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

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.

Bern is a very family-friendly destination. This charming town has riverside parks and pools, a zoo, a waterpark, and kid-friendly museums that the whole family can enjoy. You can also visit nearby Gurten, a mountain with tobogganing, concerts, and a mini ski resort.

Is Grindelwald or Bern Better for Couples?

Both Grindelwald and Bern 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.

Bern is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.

Is Grindelwald or Bern Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald and Bern are great places 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.

Bern is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Like most of Switzerland, prices are a bit high, but there are some hostels and free activities that backpackers and budget travelers can enjoy.

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

Bern 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 Bern can get you to most places easily. There are trams and buses that run 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 Bern a more walkable city?

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

Bern is a very walkable destination. It's fun to explore the old town on foot. It is compact enough to that you can see all of the highlights in a few hours.

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 Bern Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bern or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Bern?

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

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

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

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

One day in Grindelwald or Bern?

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and skiing. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Bern. 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 Bern?

Grindelwald is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Bern. 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 Bern?

Grindelwald is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The historic city of Bern 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 Bern?

Because Grindelwald is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bern. 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 Bern, we can see that Bern 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 Bern Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Bern?

Bern has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Bern, 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 Bern?

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 Bern in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Bern. Typically, the summer temperatures in Grindelwald in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Bern averages at about 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bern 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 Bern during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 250 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 Bern. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bern receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Bern in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Bern. 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. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bern this time of year.

In October, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Bern. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 15°C (58°F), and Bern fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Bern. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 126 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Bern. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bern receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Bern in the Winter?

Both Bern 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 Bern for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bern. It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. Grindelwald is much warmer than Bern in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Bern fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Bern during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 65 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Bern. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bern receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Bern in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Bern. Typically, the spring temperatures in Grindelwald in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Bern averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bern. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 164 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Bern. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bern receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bern and Grindelwald