A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Grindelwald vs. Howth for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Grindelwald or Howth?

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 Howth can help you decide which place is right for you.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a high adrenaline, breathtaking, and beautiful town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Howth

Howth is a coastal, beautiful, and picturesque fishing village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include hiking, museums, and food.

Grindelwald and Howth: 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
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Howth?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Howth are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Howth is known for its museums and beaches. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Howth is popular for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Howth Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Howth

Grindelwald is well known for winter skiing. However, Howth is not a skiing destination.

People head to Grindelwald specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and 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.

Howth is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Howth

Howth 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 Howth. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.

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 Howth? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Howth

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Howth both to be good 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 Howth. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Grindelwald or Howth Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Howth

Grindelwald is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Grindelwald has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.


Is Grindelwald or Howth Better for Beaches?

Grindelwald
Howth

Howth is well known for the beach. However, Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Howth is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Is Grindelwald or Howth Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Howth

Grindelwald is an amazing town to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Howth for the hiking trails. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Howth?

Grindelwald
Howth

Grindelwald is a town with a few options for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grindelwald has some nice offerings. 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.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Grindelwald or Howth Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Howth

Grindelwald is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Grindelwald or Howth Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Howth

Grindelwald is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Howth is a good town for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Grindelwald or Howth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Howth

Grindelwald is well known for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grindelwald is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.


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

Grindelwald
Howth

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

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 Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is Grindelwald or Howth a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Howth

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

Howth is a very walkable destination. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

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 Howth Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Howth or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Howth?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Grindelwald or Howth to fill your time. In our opinion, Grindelwald has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Grindelwald than Howth. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Howth. 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 Howth. 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 Howth 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 Howth? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Howth 1-2

One day in Grindelwald or Howth?

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 food and museums when visiting the peaceful fishing village of Howth. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this fishing village has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Grindelwald or Howth?

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 museums and food when visiting the peaceful destination of Howth. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This fishing village 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 Howth?

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 beautiful fishing village of Howth offers food and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Howth?

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 food when visiting Howth. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. 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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Howth 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 Howth is $144. 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 Howth in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Howth $68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Howth $136
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Howth

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Howth? 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 Howth


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Howth $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $179
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Howth?

Prices for flights to both Howth 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
    Howth $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Howth $27

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 Howth

Here are a few actual costs in Howth for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Dublin: Full-Day Howth and Malahide Castle Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Howth $22


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

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



When is the best time to visit Grindelwald or Howth?

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 Howth in the Summer?

Both Howth and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Howth because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Howth. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and Howth fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Howth during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Howth. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Howth receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Grindelwald or Howth in the Autumn?

Both Howth and Grindelwald during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 hiking trails and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Howth this time of year.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Howth in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Howth fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Howth. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 97 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Howth. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Howth receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Grindelwald or Howth in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Howth. The skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. In the winter, Grindelwald is cooler than Howth. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Howth averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Howth during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Howth. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Howth receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Howth 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Howth in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Howth. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Howth in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Grindelwald is generally much warmer than Howth. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and Howth fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

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


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

Typical Weather for Howth and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Howth
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in)