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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Kiel?

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 Kiel 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.

Kiel

Kiel is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and waterfront 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 Kiel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Kiel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kiel. Although Grindelwald and Kiel are both popular with visitors, Kiel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kiel is more popular for its museums, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Grindelwald is known for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than Kiel and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Kiel is popular for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival. It is also home to The Kiel Castle.

How is Grindelwald different from Kiel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Kiel Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is well known for winter skiing. However, Kiel 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.

Kiel is not a skiing destination.

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

Kiel 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 Kiel. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

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 Kiel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Kiel 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 Kiel. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Grindelwald or Kiel Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Grindelwald and Kiel.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kiel has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

Is Grindelwald or Kiel Better for Beaches?

Kiel is very good for the beach. However, Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Kiel to enjoy the beach. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Is Grindelwald or Kiel Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Kiel is not a hiking destination.

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.

Kiel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Kiel?

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

Many visitors go to Kiel to go shopping. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

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 Kiel Better for Families?

Grindelwald is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kiel 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.

Kiel offers lots of family activities. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

Is Grindelwald or Kiel Better for Couples?

Grindelwald is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel 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.

Kiel is a good town for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Grindelwald or Kiel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald is well known for backpackers. However, Kiel 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.

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Grindelwald or Kiel Better for Students?

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

Kiel is popular with students. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Grindelwald is a popular place for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Grindelwald or Kiel a more walkable city?

Grindelwald and Kiel both are good 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.

Kiel is somewhat walkable. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Kiel or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Kiel?

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

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

One day in Grindelwald or Kiel?

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 waterfront city of Kiel. 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 Kiel?

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 maritime destination of Kiel. 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 Kiel?

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 waterfront city of Kiel 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 Kiel?

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 Kiel. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Kiel?

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

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 Kiel in the Summer?

Both Kiel 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 Kiel because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Kiel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 219 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Kiel. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Kiel in the Autumn?

Both Kiel 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 city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kiel this time of year.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Kiel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Kiel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 102 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Kiel. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Kiel in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kiel. It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. In the winter, Grindelwald is much warmer than Kiel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Kiel averages at about 0°C (33°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 39 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Kiel. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Kiel in the Spring?

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

In April, Grindelwald is generally much warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kiel. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 171 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the spring. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Kiel. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kiel and Grindelwald