A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Grindelwald vs. Lillehammer for Hiking, Skiing, Food, and Families

Should you visit Grindelwald or Lillehammer?

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 Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a adventure-filled, sporty, and natural city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Grindelwald and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Lillehammer?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lillehammer than Grindelwald, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lillehammer is better known for its museums, food, and shopping, while Grindelwald is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than Lillehammer and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Lillehammer is well known for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics. Also, Lillehammer is famous for Lillehammer Olympic Park.

How is Grindelwald different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald and Lillehammer are excellent places to visit for winter sports such as skiing.

Grindelwald is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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.

Lillehammer offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

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

Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air 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 Lillehammer? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer is an experience not to be missed. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

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 Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is Grindelwald or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Lillehammer for the hiking trails. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Lillehammer?

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

Many visitors go to Lillehammer to go shopping. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

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 Lillehammer Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Lillehammer.

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.

Lillehammer is a very family-friendly destination. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

Is Grindelwald or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Both Grindelwald and Lillehammer are excellent 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.

Lillehammer is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Is Grindelwald or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is a good town to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Grindelwald or Lillehammer Better for Students?

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

Lillehammer is popular with students. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Grindelwald or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Grindelwald and Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is somewhat walkable. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Grindelwald or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Lillehammer if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Grindelwald.

One day in Grindelwald or Lillehammer?

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 food and shopping when visiting the adventure-filled city of Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the natural destination of Lillehammer. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Lillehammer?

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 sporty city of Lillehammer offers museums and skiing. 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 Lillehammer?

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 skiing and nightlife when visiting Lillehammer. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Lillehammer?

Lillehammer has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Lillehammer, 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.