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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Killarney?

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 Killarney 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and skiing.

Killarney

Killarney is a charming, local, and natural town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Grindelwald and Killarney: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Killarney?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Killarney, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Killarney is more popular for its museums. Grindelwald is well known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery. Killarney is well known for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Killarney Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Killarney

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

Killarney is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Killarney

Killarney 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 Killarney. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.

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 Killarney? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Killarney

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Killarney 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 Killarney. You'll find great local fish and chips shops as well as locally caught seafood and regional produce. There are cafes and other independent restaurants that provide a local taste of the area.

Is Grindelwald or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Killarney

Grindelwald is a town with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Killarney doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.


Is Grindelwald or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Killarney

Grindelwald is terrific for its hiking experiences. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Killarney for the hiking trails. You'll find many great hiking trails both in and around Killarney National Park. The town is also the starting and ending point for the 200 km Kerry Way walking trail. Other hikes worth checking out in the area include the Knockreer Circular Walk, Muckross Lake Loop Walk, and Old Kenmare Road Walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Killarney?

Grindelwald
Killarney

Grindelwald is a town with a few options for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grindelwald or Killarney Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Killarney

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Killarney.

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.

Killarney is a very family-friendly destination. The area has many outdoor activities. You can explore Killarney National Park by horseback or head out on bikes. You can also take a boat ride or there's Kennedys Pet Farm for animal lovers.


Is Grindelwald or Killarney Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Killarney

Both Grindelwald and Killarney are superb 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.

Killarney is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

Is Grindelwald or Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Killarney

Grindelwald is well known for backpackers. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 backpackers visit Killarney. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.

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

Grindelwald
Killarney

Grindelwald is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Killarney 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 Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.


Is Grindelwald or Killarney a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Killarney

Grindelwald is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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.

Killarney is not a very walkable town. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.

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

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Killarney?

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

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Killarney. 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 Killarney. 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 Killarney 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 Killarney? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Killarney 2-3

One day in Grindelwald or Killarney?

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the natural town of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Killarney?

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and skiing. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the charming destination of Killarney. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Killarney?

Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The local town of Killarney offers food and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Grindelwald or Killarney?

Grindelwald is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Killarney. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney 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 Killarney is $179. 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 Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Killarney $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Killarney $220
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Killarney? 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 Killarney


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 Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Killarney $21

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53
  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney 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
    Killarney $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

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

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Killarney $20

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 Killarney

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

  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Killarney Hop - On, Hop - Off Tour: $16
  • Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Bike Tour of Killarney National Park, Muckross Gardens & Waterfall: $22
  • Guided Boat Tour to Innisfallen Island: $22
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on theTralee to Fenit Greenway: $27
  • Muckross House and Gardens, Killarney - Scenic Tour (Minimum 4 People - 1 way).: $33
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Killarney : $36
  • Killarney Carriage Tours National Park and Lakes: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Killarney $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Killarney?

Killarney has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Killarney, 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 Killarney?

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 Killarney in the Summer?

Both Killarney and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Killarney in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Grindelwald is much warmer than Killarney. Typically, the summer temperatures in Grindelwald in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Killarney averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Killarney. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Killarney in the Autumn?

Both Killarney and Grindelwald during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 15°C (58°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun.

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets less rain in October than Killarney. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Killarney in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Killarney. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Killarney because of the museums and the cuisine.

Grindelwald can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald is cooler than Killarney in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

Killarney receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Grindelwald usually receives less rain than Killarney. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Killarney in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Killarney. The spring months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

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

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the spring. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Killarney. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)