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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Bratislava?

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 Bratislava 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.

Bratislava

Bratislava is a cultural, laid-back, and relaxed city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Bratislava: 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
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Bratislava?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Bratislava, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm, while Bratislava is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Grindelwald is more touristy than Bratislava and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery. Bratislava is well known for its local beer, charming old town, and scenic mountain setting.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Bratislava?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Bratislava Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

Grindelwald is notable for snow skiing. However, Bratislava 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.

Bratislava is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Bratislava

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

Many visitors head to Bratislava specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Despite its small size, the city is packed with interesting sights and attractions. A highlight of a visit is exploring the Bratislava Castle. Other notable sights include Michael's Gate, the Slovak National Theatre, Grassalkovich Palace, and Primate's Palace & Hall of Mirrors.

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 Bratislava? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Bratislava 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 Bratislava. Slovakian food is hearty and uses a few staple ingredients like cheese and dumplings. The dishes are warm and filling on a cool day, so it's nice to step into a cozy restaurant and rest after a day of exploring. Popular local dishes include bryndzové halušky (sheep's cheese gnocchi), kapustnica (cabbage soup), and goulash.

Is Grindelwald or Bratislava Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

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

Bratislava is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has grown in popularity as a center for nightlife with many people visiting from nearby Vienna. There are a growing number of stag and hen parties around town, but you'll also find sophisticated wine bars and a refined social scene. Many of the city's clubs are found in old town around Michalská, Obchodná and Ventúrska streets as well as Hviezdoslavovo and SNP squares.

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 Bratislava Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

Bratislava 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 Bratislava. The old town is filled with diverse architecture as well as traditional and upscale restaurants.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Bratislava Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

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

Bratislava is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Bratislava?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

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

Many visitors go to Bratislava to go shopping. Shopping has come to life here, with three large shopping malls and many shopping streets where you'll find local boutiques. The city has both global brands as well as more traditional shops where you can buy local items. Popular things to purchase while you're in town include traditional clothing, wooden crosses, corn husk dolls, and local alcohol such as slivovica.

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 Bratislava Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

Grindelwald is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bratislava is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is 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.

Bratislava is a family-friendly town. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the lack of tourist crowds when compared to other European cities, even during school holidays. You can explore the city and enjoy a laid back vibe without the chaos of navigating through tour groups and large crowds. There's also a nice old town as well as gardens, playgrounds, palaces, and the Bratislava Castle.

Is Grindelwald or Bratislava Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

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

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.

Bratislava makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that enjoy stepping away from tourist crowds will appreciate this relaxed city. There is the beautiful Janko Kráľ Park as well as the Bratislava Castle that you can explore. It's enjoyable to simply walk around the old town and soak up the atmosphere as well. There are also many great restaurants and wine bars where you can enjoy a night out.

Is Grindelwald or Bratislava Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

Grindelwald and Bratislava 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.

Bratislava is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city offers an affordable and unique alternative to some of the larger and well known cities that are nearby. There are a couple of hostels and some affordable hotels that will help you keep your expenses down.


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

Grindelwald
Bratislava

Bratislava 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 Bratislava can get you to most places easily. There are trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

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 Bratislava a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Bratislava

Bratislava 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 Bratislava on foot is easy. One of the best ways to experience the city is to walk around. The old town is also a large pedestrian zone.

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 Bratislava Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bratislava or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Bratislava?

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

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Bratislava. 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.

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


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

One day in Grindelwald or Bratislava?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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, one day is sufficent for most.

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

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Bratislava. 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 Bratislava?

Grindelwald, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The relaxed city of Bratislava 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 Bratislava?

Grindelwald is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bratislava. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Slovakia, and The Best River Cruises in Slovakia.


Which place is cheaper, Bratislava 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 Bratislava is $130. 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 Bratislava in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Bratislava $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Bratislava $106
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Bratislava

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Bratislava? 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 Bratislava


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 Bratislava Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Bratislava $28

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bratislava

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bratislava:

  • Bratislava - Budapest Transfer: $199
  • Bratislava Airport (BTS) to Bojnice Resorts - Round Trip Transfer: $131
  • Bratislava Airport BTS to Piestany Round Trip Private Transfer: $94
  • Bratislava Airport to Bojnice Resorts - Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava Airport to Turčianske Teplice Arrival Private Transfer: $66
  • Bratislava-Budapest One-Way Sightseeing Transfer: $295
  • Airport to Hotel Private Transfer Service: $24
  • Private Direct Transfer From Bratislava to Vienna City Center: $87
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava City to Vienna City: $98
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest with 2h of Sightseeing: $202
  • Private transfer from Bratislava to Vienna: $263
  • Vienna Airport VIE to Bojnice Resorts Round Trip Private Transfer: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Bratislava?

Prices for flights to both Bratislava 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
    Bratislava $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bratislava

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bratislava.

  • Local Beer & Food Tour: $142
  • Bratislava Traditional Food Tour: $169

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Bratislava $32

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

Tours and Activities in Bratislava

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bratislava are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Top experience walking tour with bonus and castle: $4.36
  • Bratislava Old Town In App Audio Tour (ENG): $5.43
  • City & Castle Tour - Introduction to Bratislava: $5.45
  • Historic City Centre Self-guided Tour: $6.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Bratislava Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Gallery Multium Entrance Ticket: $6.95
  • Gallery Multium Entrance Ticket: $7.10
  • The jewels of Bratislava a Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Bratislava $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Bratislava

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bratislava:

  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $11
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier in Bratislava: $14
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier: $15
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $16
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $21
  • Bratislava 3-Hour Wine Tasting: $104
  • Devin Castle Tour with Currant Wine Tasting: $144
  • Devin Castle Tour with Wine Tasting: $158
  • Bratislava Food and Wine Tour: $180
  • Little Carpathian Wine Tour: $201
  • 6-Hour Carpathian Wine Tour and Tasting: $209


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Bratislava?

Bratislava has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Bratislava, 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 Bratislava?

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 Bratislava in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Bratislava. 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 Bratislava because of the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bratislava 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 Bratislava during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Bratislava receives 255 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 Bratislava. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Bratislava 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Bratislava in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Bratislava. 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 natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bratislava this time of year.

In October, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Bratislava. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 15°C (58°F), and Bratislava fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Bratislava. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 140 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Bratislava. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Bratislava 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Bratislava in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bratislava. It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. Grindelwald is much warmer than Bratislava in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Bratislava fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

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

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Bratislava. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Bratislava 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Bratislava in the Spring?

Both Bratislava 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 Bratislava in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Bratislava. Typically, the spring temperatures in Grindelwald in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Bratislava averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Bratislava, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Grindelwald often gets less sunshine than Bratislava. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bratislava receives 202 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Bratislava. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bratislava receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Bratislava and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Bratislava
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (38°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)