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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Ghent?

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 Ghent 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • 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 nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Ghent?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ghent than Grindelwald, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ghent is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Grindelwald is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets Also, Ghent is famous for The Fortress of Gravensteen.

How is Grindelwald different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Ghent Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Ghent

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Ghent 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.

Ghent is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Ghent

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

Many visitors head to Ghent specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Ghent

Ghent 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 Ghent is an experience not to be missed. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Ghent

Ghent is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Ghent just to party. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
Ghent

Ghent 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 Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Ghent Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Ghent

Grindelwald is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Grindelwald is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Ghent?

Grindelwald
Ghent

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Ghent. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

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 Ghent Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Ghent

Grindelwald is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly town. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Grindelwald or Ghent Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Ghent

Both Grindelwald and Ghent are high quality 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.

Ghent is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Grindelwald or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Ghent

Grindelwald is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Ghent 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 budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.


Is Grindelwald or Ghent Better for Students?

Grindelwald
Ghent

Ghent is a world-class destination for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Grindelwald
Ghent

Ghent is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Ghent can get you around easily. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Ghent

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

Ghent is a very walkable destination. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally 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 Ghent Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Ghent?

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

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

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


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

One day in Grindelwald or Ghent?

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy city of Ghent. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the under-rated destination of Ghent. 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 Ghent?

Grindelwald is a fun place to experience. Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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.

The under-rated city of Ghent 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 Ghent?

Grindelwald is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Ghent 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 Ghent is $127. 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 Ghent in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Ghent $77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Ghent $154
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Ghent

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Ghent? 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 Ghent


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 Ghent Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Ghent $20

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 Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Business Car: $147
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van: $166
  • Ghent <-> Amsterdam Shuttle Transfer (1 to 8 Seats): $229
  • Ostend <-> Luxembourg transfer (1 to 8 places): $233
  • Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Bruges- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Ghent?

Prices for flights to both Ghent 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
    Ghent $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

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

  • Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $102
  • Small-Group Food Tour in Ghent by Bike: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Ghent $9.26

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 Ghent

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.26
  • Ghent city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent: $5.45
  • Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.08
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $11
  • 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Ghent $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

  • Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Private Ghent Beer & Brewery Tour by a young local: $245


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Ghent?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Ghent, 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 Ghent?

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 Ghent in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Ghent. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Ghent. Typically, the summer temperatures in Grindelwald in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Ghent averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ghent this time of the year. In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 202 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 Ghent. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Ghent 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Ghent in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Ghent. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Ghent because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Ghent. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Grindelwald or Ghent in the Winter?

Both Ghent and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ghent in the winter. The weather in Grindelwald can be very cold. Grindelwald is a little warmer than Ghent in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Ghent fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Ghent. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Ghent 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Ghent in the Spring?

Both Ghent and Grindelwald during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Grindelwald is much warmer than Ghent. Typically, the spring temperatures in Grindelwald in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Ghent averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Ghent. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Ghent 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Ghent and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Ghent
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)