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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Cork?

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 Cork 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.

Cork

Cork is a cultural, seaside, and youthful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Cork: 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 popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Cork?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cork than Grindelwald, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cork is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than Cork and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Cork is well known for its friendly personality, its thriving art scene and its local craft beer. Also, Cork is famous for The Blarney Castle and Stone.

How is Grindelwald different from Cork?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Cork Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Cork

Grindelwald is notable for snow skiing. However, Cork 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.

Cork is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Cork

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

Many visitors head to Cork specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historic sights and landmarks. Most notable is the Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, but also make sure you check out St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Cork Public Museum, Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre, and St. Anne's Church.

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 Cork? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Cork

Cork 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 Cork is an experience not to be missed. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

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 Cork Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Cork

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

Cork is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

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 Cork Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Cork

Grindelwald is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Cork is not a hiking destination.

Around Grindelwald visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Cork is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Cork?

Grindelwald
Cork

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cork. It offers a mix of high street shops and boutique vendors. Head to St. Patrick’s Street for some of the city's best shopping. Also check out Opera Lane and Oliver Plunkett Street.

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 Cork Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Cork

Grindelwald is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cork 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.

Cork is a family-friendly town. For a bit of outside time, head to Fota Wildlife Park, Regional Park Ballincollig, or Inchydoney Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring Cork City Gaol which is a heritage museum, or the Toy Soldier Factory. And of course, there's the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone.


Is Grindelwald or Cork Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Cork

Both Grindelwald and Cork are superb 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.

Cork is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Visiting Blarney Castle is a highlight, but you can also wander along the river or do the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. There are also several gardens to explore or small theaters where you can see a play.

Is Grindelwald or Cork Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Cork

Grindelwald is notable for backpackers. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Grindelwald. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cork. There are plenty of hostels as well as a large student population and an active nightlife.

Is Grindelwald or Cork Better for Students?

Grindelwald
Cork

Cork is well known for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Cork is very popular with students. It's a university town with many students and plenty to do. The city plays host to many international students.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.


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

Grindelwald
Cork

Grindelwald is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Cork is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Cork. In town you'll find bus service but if you want to explore anywhere else in the county you really need your own vehicle.

Is Grindelwald or Cork a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Cork

Grindelwald and Cork both are notable when exploring on foot.

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.

Cork is somewhat walkable. The city center is compact and easy enough to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting? and Is Cork Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cork or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Cork?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Cork 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 Cork? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Cork 1-3

One day in Grindelwald or Cork?

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 energetic city of Cork. 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 Cork?

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 seaside destination of Cork. 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 Cork?

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 seaside city of Cork offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Grindelwald or Cork?

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 Cork. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Cork 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 Cork is $110. 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 Cork in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Cork $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Cork $130
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Cork

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Cork? 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 Cork


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 Cork Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Cork $17

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: $179
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Cork?

Prices for flights to both Cork 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
    Cork $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cork

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

  • Hysterical Histories, Comedic Dinner Theater Show: $53
  • Hysterical Histories Cork Dinner Theatre Show: $57
  • Historic Cork Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Cork $10

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 Cork

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

  • Highlights of A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Cork Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Discover Cork's Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens Admission Ticket: $13
  • City Gaol Tour with Audio Guide: $14
  • Cork City Gaol Admission Ticket: $14
  • Cork Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Guided Historical Walking Tour: $20
  • Cork Instagram Photography Walking Tour: $22
  • Tour guidé de Cork City centre en français: $24
  • Cork City Hop On/Off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Hop On/Hop Off Cork City Sightseeing Tour : $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Cork $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Cork

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cork:

  • Clonakilty Distillery Tour & Classic Whiskey Tasting: $22
  • Cork City: Rebel City Distillery Tour: $27
  • Rebel City Distillery Tour: $27
  • Midleton Distillery Tour with Whiskey Tasting: $32
  • Midleton Distillery Experience & Whiskey Tasting -Home of Jameson: $33
  • Whiskey Cocktail Making Class at Midleton Distillery: $64
  • Cork Irish Whiskey Cocktail Making Class at Midleton Distillery : $65
  • Midleton Distillery Behind the Scenes Tour & Tasting: $80
  • Blarney Castle Cork City and Jameson Distillery Semi Private Tour: $196
  • Private Cork City Tour, Kinsale and Jameson Distillery: $254


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Cork?

Cork has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Cork, 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 Cork?

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 Cork in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Cork. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cork in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Cork. Typically, the summer temperatures in Grindelwald in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Cork averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Cork during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 178 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 Cork. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Cork receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Cork 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Cork in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Cork. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Cork for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Cork. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 15°C (58°F), and Cork fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Cork. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 90 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Cork. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Cork receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Cork 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Cork in the Winter?

Both Cork and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cork because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Grindelwald can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald is cooler than Cork in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Cork fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Cork during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cork. In January, Grindelwald usually receives less rain than Cork. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cork receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Cork 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Cork in the Spring?

Both Cork and Grindelwald during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Cork this time of year.

In the spring, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Cork. Typically, the spring temperatures in Grindelwald in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Cork averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Cork. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 157 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Cork. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Cork receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Cork 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Cork and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Cork
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in)