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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Leipzig?

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 Leipzig 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a dynamic, cultural, and historic city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Leipzig: 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 shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Leipzig?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Leipzig, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Leipzig is more popular for its museums, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Grindelwald is more touristy than Leipzig and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery. Leipzig is well known for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Leipzig Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Leipzig

Grindelwald is great for skiing. However, Leipzig is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. 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.

Leipzig is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Leipzig

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

Many visitors head to Leipzig specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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 Leipzig? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Leipzig

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Leipzig 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 Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Grindelwald or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Leipzig

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

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 Leipzig has a few options to choose from. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.


Is Grindelwald or Leipzig Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Leipzig

Grindelwald is terrific for hiking. However, Leipzig is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Grindelwald draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Leipzig is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Leipzig?

Grindelwald
Leipzig

Leipzig is well known for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Leipzig. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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 Leipzig Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Leipzig

Grindelwald is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.


Is Grindelwald or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Leipzig

Grindelwald is great for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

Is Grindelwald or Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Leipzig

Grindelwald is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Grindelwald is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Leipzig is a good town to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

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

Grindelwald
Leipzig

Leipzig is well known for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Leipzig can get you to most places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

While Grindelwald offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel around the region.


Is Grindelwald or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Leipzig

Grindelwald and Leipzig both are notable 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.

Leipzig is somewhat walkable. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Leipzig?

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

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

One day in Grindelwald or Leipzig?

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Leipzig. 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 Leipzig?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Leipzig. 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 Leipzig?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The dynamic city of Leipzig 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 Leipzig?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Leipzig. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Leipzig 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 Leipzig is $178. 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 Leipzig in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Leipzig $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Leipzig $194
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Leipzig

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Leipzig? 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 Leipzig


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 Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Leipzig $29

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 Leipzig

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

  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Leipzig?

Prices for flights to both Leipzig 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
    Leipzig $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Leipzig $39

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 Leipzig

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

  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • Leipzig's Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of the City's Communist Past: $6.99
  • Historic Center Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sighteeing Tour: $12
  • Guided Crime-Themed Walking Tour: $13
  • Old Town Guided Tour: $13
  • 1.5-Hour Historical Walking Tour in German: $14
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour - Explore Your Way: $14
  • Guided Tour of the Southern Cemetery: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Leipzig $28


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Leipzig?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

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 Leipzig in the Summer?

Both Leipzig and Grindelwald during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Leipzig for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Leipzig. Typically, the summer temperatures in Grindelwald in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Leipzig averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In Leipzig, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Grindelwald. In the summer, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than Leipzig. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Leipzig in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Leipzig. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Leipzig in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 15°C (58°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 107 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 Leipzig. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Grindelwald or Leipzig in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Leipzig. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the winter for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Leipzig for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Leipzig can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. Grindelwald is much warmer than Leipzig in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Leipzig fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald usually gets more rain in January than Leipzig. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Leipzig in the Spring?

Both Leipzig and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Leipzig. Typically, the spring temperatures in Grindelwald in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Leipzig averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In April, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Leipzig
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)