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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Biarritz?

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

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.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a dynamic, cultural, and relaxing seaside town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Biarritz: 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 popular for shopping
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Biarritz?

Both Biarritz and Grindelwald have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Grindelwald different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Biarritz Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

Grindelwald is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Biarritz

Biarritz is a seaside town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.

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 Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

Biarritz 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 Biarritz is an experience not to be missed. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

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 Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

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

Biarritz is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

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 Grindelwald or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

Biarritz is well known for its resorts. However, Grindelwald is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Biarritz. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Grindelwald is not a resort destination.

Is Grindelwald or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

Biarritz is well known for the beach. However, Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Biarritz is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Is Grindelwald or Biarritz Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

Grindelwald is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Biarritz?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Biarritz. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

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 Biarritz Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

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

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.

Biarritz is a very family-friendly destination. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

Is Grindelwald or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

Both Grindelwald and Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.


Is Grindelwald or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

Grindelwald and Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

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

Grindelwald
Biarritz

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

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 Biarritz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Is Grindelwald or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Biarritz

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

Biarritz is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

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 Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Biarritz?

Both Grindelwald and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Grindelwald. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Grindelwald or Biarritz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Biarritz 3-7

One day in Grindelwald or Biarritz?

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing seaside town of Biarritz. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Grindelwald or Biarritz?

Grindelwald is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grindelwald, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the dynamic destination of Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This seaside town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Grindelwald or Biarritz?

Grindelwald is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the cultural seaside town of Biarritz. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.


A week in Grindelwald or Biarritz?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Biarritz. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this seaside town.


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 Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Biarritz 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 Biarritz is $141. 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 Biarritz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Biarritz $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Biarritz $158
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Biarritz

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Biarritz? 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 Biarritz


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 Biarritz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Biarritz $42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

Also for Biarritz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $85
  • Biarritz : Optimized transfer to/from Bordeaux: $749
  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $70
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $71
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $167
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $167
  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $229
  • San Sebastian: Optimized transfer to Biarritz & surroundings: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Biarritz?

Prices for flights to both Biarritz 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
    Biarritz $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Biarritz Food Tour Gastronomique- Taste 10 Basque specialties: $76
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $97
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $240

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Biarritz $17

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Pierre IBAIALDE: Guided Tour Ham Workshop, tasting: $5.46
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Walking tours of Biarritz: $22
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Unusual Guided Tour in a Segway in Biarritz: $59
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Guided Tapas Tour Hondarribia from Hendaye with Food and Drinks: $108
  • Private E-bike Guided Tour: $155

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Biarritz $8.62


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Biarritz?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Biarritz, 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 Biarritz?

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 Grindelwald or Biarritz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Biarritz. 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 Biarritz because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. In the summer, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the summer. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than Biarritz. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Biarritz this time of year.

Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Biarritz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Biarritz during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In October, Grindelwald usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Biarritz in the Winter?

Both Biarritz and Grindelwald during the winter are popular places to visit. The skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. In the winter, Grindelwald is much colder than Biarritz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Biarritz averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Grindelwald usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Biarritz. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Biarritz in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Grindelwald is generally around the same temperature as Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the spring. Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of rain as Biarritz. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Biarritz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)