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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny 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.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Kilkenny: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Kilkenny?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Kilkenny are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Kilkenny is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping. Grindelwald is more touristy than Kilkenny and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Kilkenny is popular for its medieval castle and long running history.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Kilkenny Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

Grindelwald is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Kilkenny 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.

Kilkenny is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

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

Many visitors head to Kilkenny specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile 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 Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny is an experience not to be missed. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

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 Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

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

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 Kilkenny has a few options to choose from. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.


Is Grindelwald or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Kilkenny Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

Grindelwald is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking. 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.

Kilkenny is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Kilkenny?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

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

Many visitors go to Kilkenny to go shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

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 Kilkenny Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Kilkenny.

Grindelwald is known to be 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.

Kilkenny is a very family-friendly destination. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

Is Grindelwald or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

Both Grindelwald and Kilkenny are very good 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.

Kilkenny is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.

Is Grindelwald or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

Grindelwald is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.


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

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

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

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 Kilkenny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses through town.

Is Grindelwald or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Kilkenny

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

Kilkenny is a very walkable destination. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored on foot.

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 Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Kilkenny?

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

Families should spend more time in Kilkenny than Grindelwald. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kilkenny, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Grindelwald or Kilkenny?

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fascinating town of Kilkenny. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Grindelwald or Kilkenny?

Grindelwald is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grindelwald, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the ancient destination of Kilkenny. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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 Kilkenny?

Grindelwald is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The medieval town of Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kilkenny. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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, Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny is $95. 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 Kilkenny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Kilkenny $47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Kilkenny $94
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Kilkenny

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Kilkenny? 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 Kilkenny


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 Kilkenny Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Kilkenny $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • 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 Kilkenny?

Prices for flights to both Kilkenny 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
    Kilkenny $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Kilkenny $16

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 Kilkenny

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

  • Medieval Mile Museum Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.81
  • Historical Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Kilkenny city tour in German.: $13
  • Best of Kilkenny, two hour walking tour with a qualified guide: $13
  • Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
  • The Medieval Mile Museum Guided Tour: $13
  • Guided City Boat Tour with Kilkenny Castle Views: $16
  • Knight For Hire Tour: $16
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • The Witch Tour: $21
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21
  • Smithwick's Beer Experience: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Kilkenny $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Kilkenny

Also in Kilkenny, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour: $150
  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour : $158


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Kilkenny?

Kilkenny has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Kilkenny, 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 Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

In July, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Kilkenny 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Grindelwald during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Kilkenny in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Kilkenny. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Kilkenny 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Kilkenny. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Grindelwald. In the winter, Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kilkenny. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Kilkenny 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Kilkenny. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty during these months.

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

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the spring. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Kilkenny. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Kilkenny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)