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

Should you visit Grindelwald or La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle can help you decide which place is right for you.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a breathtaking, beautiful, and adventure-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a quaint, charming, and peaceful coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Grindelwald and La Rochelle: 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
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or La Rochelle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Rochelle. Although Grindelwald and La Rochelle are both popular with visitors, La Rochelle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. La Rochelle is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Grindelwald is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. La Rochelle is popular for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. It is also home to The Old Port.

How is Grindelwald different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or La Rochelle Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

Grindelwald is great for skiing. However, La Rochelle is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Grindelwald. 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.

La Rochelle is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grindelwald or La Rochelle?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

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

Many visitors head to La Rochelle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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 La Rochelle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

La Rochelle has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

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

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 La Rochelle has a few options to choose from. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.


Is Grindelwald or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

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

Many people head to La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Is Grindelwald or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of La Rochelle is revered around the world. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

Grindelwald is very popular for hiking. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

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 people include a hike when visiting La Rochelle. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.


Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or La Rochelle?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

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

Many visitors go to La Rochelle to go shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

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 La Rochelle Better for Families?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

Grindelwald is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Grindelwald is very family-friendly. 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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Grindelwald or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, La Rochelle has plenty to offer. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

Grindelwald is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.


Is Grindelwald or La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

Grindelwald is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

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

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is Grindelwald or La Rochelle Better for Students?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

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

La Rochelle is popular with students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

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

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 La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.


Is Grindelwald or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
La Rochelle

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

La Rochelle is a very walkable destination. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town 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 La Rochelle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Grindelwald or La Rochelle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Rochelle due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 2-4 days is enough time in La Rochelle.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.


  • How many days in Grindelwald or La Rochelle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    La Rochelle 2-4

One day in Grindelwald or La Rochelle?

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back coastal town of La Rochelle. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the food. 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 La Rochelle?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing small town of La Rochelle. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This coastal 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 La Rochelle?

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. 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.

The laid-back coastal town of La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting La Rochelle. 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 food. 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 Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle is $122. 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 La Rochelle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    La Rochelle $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    La Rochelle $144
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and La Rochelle

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or La Rochelle? 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 La Rochelle


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 La Rochelle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    La Rochelle $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Rochelle

Also for La Rochelle, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Cruise Port to Nantes Hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Port to Nantes Airport (NTE): $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or La Rochelle?

Prices for flights to both La Rochelle 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
    La Rochelle $37

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    La Rochelle $14

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

Tours and Activities in La Rochelle

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for La Rochelle.

  • La Rochelle : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Entry Ticket to the 3 Towers: $12
  • La Rochelle Towers Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Les Minimes and Bay Boat Tour: $18
  • Guided tour of La Rochelle The splendor of merchants in the 18th century: $22
  • Planet Exotica entrance ticket: $23
  • Coastline Sailing Cruise: $27
  • 2-Hour Sunset Sailing Cruise: $31
  • 3-Hour Sailing cruise: $37
  • La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour - 1h: $43
  • Lighthouse at the End of the World Segway Tour - 1h: $43
  • Discover Discovery Walking Tour of La Rochelle: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    La Rochelle $17


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Grindelwald or La Rochelle in the Summer?

Both La Rochelle and Grindelwald during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 La Rochelle because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In La Rochelle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Grindelwald. In the summer, Grindelwald often gets around the same amount of sunshine as La Rochelle. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than La Rochelle. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    La Rochelle 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and La Rochelle. 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, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year.

Grindelwald is around the same temperature as La Rochelle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    La Rochelle 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or La Rochelle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as La Rochelle. The skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to La Rochelle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. In the winter, Grindelwald is cooler than La Rochelle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than La Rochelle. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as La Rochelle. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Grindelwald or La Rochelle in the Spring?

Both La Rochelle and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to La Rochelle in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as La Rochelle during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In April, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    La Rochelle 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Grindelwald

Grindelwald La Rochelle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 18°C (64°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)