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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Linz?

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 Linz can help you decide which place is right for you.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Linz

Linz is a cultural, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Grindelwald and Linz: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Linz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Linz are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and small town charm, while Linz is known for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Linz is popular for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Linz Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Linz

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Linz

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

Many visitors head to Linz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art 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 Linz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Linz

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Linz both to be good 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 Linz. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Grindelwald or Linz Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Linz

Grindelwald is a town with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Grindelwald. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.


Is Grindelwald or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
Linz

Linz is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Linz offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Linz Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Linz

Grindelwald is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Linz?

Grindelwald
Linz

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Linz. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

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 Linz Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Linz

Grindelwald is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Linz is a family-friendly town. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Grindelwald or Linz Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Linz

Both Grindelwald and Linz 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.

Linz is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

Is Grindelwald or Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Linz

Grindelwald is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.


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

Grindelwald
Linz

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

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 Linz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

Is Grindelwald or Linz a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Linz

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

Linz is a very walkable destination. The tourist areas are easy to explore 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 Linz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Linz or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Linz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Grindelwald or Linz to fill your time. In our opinion, Grindelwald has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Grindelwald than Linz. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Linz 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 Linz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Linz 1-2

One day in Grindelwald or Linz?

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and skiing. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural town of Linz. 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.


A weekend in Grindelwald or Linz?

Grindelwald is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Linz. 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 Linz?

Grindelwald is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The cultural town of Linz offers museums and food. 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 Linz?

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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Linz. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Linz 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 Linz 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 Linz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Linz $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Linz $126
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Linz

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Linz? 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 Linz


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 Linz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Linz $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $180
  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Linz?

Prices for flights to both Linz 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
    Linz $34

Typical Food Prices in Linz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Linz are as follows:


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    $4.50
  • Lunch
    $9.11

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

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 Linz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Linz are as follows:

  • Linz Harbor Cruise: $15
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • What the bloody hell is there in Linz? 1,5 hour walking tour: $24
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private History Tour with a Linzer Cake Tasting: $149
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176
  • Linz Old Town Highlights Walking Tour with Pöstlingbergbahn: $191
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $205
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour: $210
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour : $214

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Linz $17


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Linz?

Linz has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Linz, 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 Linz?

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 Linz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Linz. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Linz in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Linz. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and Linz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Linz this time of the year. In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Linz during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Linz. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Linz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Linz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Linz. 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. Additionally, most visitors come to Linz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Linz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Linz. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Linz. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Grindelwald or Linz in the Winter?

Both Linz and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Linz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Linz can be very cold. Grindelwald can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Grindelwald is much warmer than Linz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Linz averages at about -0°C (31°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Linz during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Linz. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Linz -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Linz in the Spring?

Both Linz and Grindelwald during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Linz this time of year.

In April, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Linz. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Linz. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Linz. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Linz 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Linz and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Linz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) -0°C (31°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 11°C (51°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)