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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Galway?

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 Galway 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.

Galway

Galway is a lively, friendly, and cultural 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 Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Galway?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Galway than Grindelwald, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Galway is better known for its museums, 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 Galway and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Galway is well known for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music. Also, Galway is famous for The Galway Market.

How is Grindelwald different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Galway Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is notable for snow skiing. However, Galway 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.

Galway is not a skiing destination.

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

Galway is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Galway. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

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 Galway? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Galway 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 Galway. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Grindelwald or Galway Better for Nightlife?

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

Galway is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

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 Galway Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Galway 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.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Galway?

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

Many visitors go to Galway to go shopping. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

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 Galway Better for Families?

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

Galway is a family-friendly town. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Grindelwald or Galway Better for Couples?

Grindelwald is notable for romance. Also, Galway 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.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Grindelwald or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald and Galway are superb 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.

Galway is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Grindelwald or Galway Better for Students?

Galway is very good for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Galway is popular with students. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Galway offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

Is Grindelwald or Galway a more walkable city?

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

Galway is a very walkable destination. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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 Galway Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Galway or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Galway?

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

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Galway. 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 Galway. 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 Galway 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 Galway.

One day in Grindelwald or Galway?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Galway. 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 Galway?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Galway. 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 Galway?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The historical city of Galway 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 Galway?

Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galway. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Galway?

Galway has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway in the Summer?

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

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

In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Galway during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 142 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 Galway. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Galway in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Galway. 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 Galway for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

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

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Galway. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Galway. Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Galway. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Galway in the Winter?

Both Galway 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 Galway because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Grindelwald can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald is cooler than Galway in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Galway during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Galway. In January, Grindelwald usually receives less rain than Galway. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Galway in the Spring?

Both Galway 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 Galway this time of year.

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

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Galway. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Galway. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Galway and Grindelwald