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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Lindau?

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 Lindau 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.

Lindau

Lindau is a picturesque, fun-filled, and scenic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food.

Grindelwald and Lindau: 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
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Lindau?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Lindau are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Lindau is known for its museums, food, and historical sights. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Lindau is popular for its lakefront location and quaint old town.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Lindau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Lindau Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Lindau

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

Lindau is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Lindau

Lindau is a town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Lindau offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The town is more about it's beautiful setting than landmarks and museums, but there are some interesting sights including the harbor and lighthouse.

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 Lindau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Lindau

Lindau 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 Lindau is an experience not to be missed. Head to the waterfront for the best seafood restaurants. Many restaurants use seasonal ingredients and serve local fish. The local whitefish is particularly popular. Dishes are influenced by the town's proximity to Switzerland and Austria, so you'll enjoy a hybrid of flavors and recipes.

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 Lindau Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Lindau

Grindelwald is a town with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

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.

Lindau doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's not known for its nightlife scene but there are bars where you can enjoy a relaxing night out.


Is Grindelwald or Lindau Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
Lindau

Lindau 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 Lindau. The old town is located on Lindau island in Lake Constance. It has quaint buildings and many waterfront restaurants.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Lindau Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Lindau

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

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.

Lindau is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Lindau?

Grindelwald
Lindau

Grindelwald is a town with a few options for its shopping opportunities. However, Lindau is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grindelwald has some nice offerings. 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.

Lindau is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Grindelwald or Lindau Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Lindau

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

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.

Lindau is a very family-friendly destination. Head to the waterfront where there's a playground, stand up paddleboarding, paddleboats, and more. Kids will also enjoy climbing to the top of the Old Lighthouse or exploring the Museum of Local History.

Is Grindelwald or Lindau Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Lindau

Both Grindelwald and Lindau 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.

Lindau is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming old town, beautiful waterfront, great seafood restaurants, and nice hotels, couples will really enjoy a few days away at this lakefront town. It's the perfect place to have a romantic weekend.

Is Grindelwald or Lindau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Lindau

Grindelwald is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Lindau 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Lindau. The town has a couple of hostels and affordable hotels that make this waterfront town accessible to backpackers and budget travelers.


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

Grindelwald
Lindau

Grindelwald is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options 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 Lindau. It's possible to reach town by bus or train and once you're in town you can walk many places.

Is Grindelwald or Lindau a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Lindau

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

Lindau is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and there are also many walks into the countryside.

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 Lindau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lindau or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Lindau?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Grindelwald than Lindau. 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 Lindau 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 Lindau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Lindau 2-4

One day in Grindelwald or Lindau?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the fun-filled town of Lindau. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Lindau?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the picturesque small town of Lindau. 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 Lindau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The picturesque town of Lindau offers food. 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 Lindau?

Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Lindau. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Lindau 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 Lindau is $176. 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 Lindau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Lindau $98
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Lindau $196
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Lindau

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Lindau? 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 Lindau


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 Lindau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Lindau $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $179
  • 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 Lindau?

Prices for flights to both Lindau 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
    Lindau $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Lindau $30

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 Lindau

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

  • Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $207
  • Lindau Private Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Lindau - Town Highlights Walking Tour: $321

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Lindau $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Lindau

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

  • Lake Constance wine tour > day tour > wine tasting at 3 winemakers: $195


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Lindau?

Lindau has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Lindau, 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.