A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Grindelwald vs. Cairngorms National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a remote, beautiful, and serene national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Grindelwald and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Cairngorms National Park are popular destinations, Grindelwald has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grindelwald is famous for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also well known for the beautiful mountain scenery. Cairngorms National Park is famous for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Grindelwald is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Grindelwald is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Grindelwald is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Grindelwald. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Grindelwald is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking. 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Grindelwald is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Grindelwald has some good spots for those that want to go 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park.

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.

Cairngorms National Park is a very family-friendly destination. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.


Is Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Both Grindelwald and Cairngorms National Park are very good 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.

Cairngorms National Park is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Grindelwald is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Grindelwald. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

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

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Grindelwald is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Grindelwald has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.


Is Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Cairngorms National Park

Grindelwald is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable town. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Grindelwald because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Cairngorms National Park. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Grindelwald than Cairngorms National Park. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Cairngorms National Park 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 Grindelwald.


  • How many days in Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park?

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the picturesque national park of Cairngorms National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the tranquil destination of Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Grindelwald is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the remote national park of Cairngorms National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Cairngorms National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.


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 from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is $148. 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 Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Cairngorms National Park $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Cairngorms National Park $138
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Cairngorms National Park $66

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park $38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Cairngorms National Park $33

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 Cairngorms National Park

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

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Cairngorms National Park $10


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

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



When is the best time to visit Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Cairngorms National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

Grindelwald is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. In the summer, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the summer. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Grindelwald is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Grindelwald in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In October, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Grindelwald during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Cairngorms National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Grindelwald. In January, Grindelwald is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 5°C (41°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

Grindelwald is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)