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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Lyon?

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 Lyon 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.

Lyon

Lyon is a quaint, authentic, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Lyon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lyon. Although Grindelwald and Lyon are both popular with visitors, Lyon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lyon is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Grindelwald is known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Lyon is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also home to The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Grindelwald different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Lyon Better for Skiing?

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

Lyon is not a skiing destination.

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

Lyon is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lyon on the map. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon 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.

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Lyon is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

If you're looking for night time activities Grindelwald has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Grindelwald or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon 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 Lyon is revered around the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Lyon Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Lyon?

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

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 Lyon Better for Families?

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

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.

Lyon is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Grindelwald or Lyon Better for Couples?

Both Grindelwald and Lyon 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.

Lyon is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Grindelwald or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald and Lyon are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grindelwald is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Lyon is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Grindelwald or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is a world-class destination for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lyon can get you around easily. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon a more walkable city?

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

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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 Lyon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Lyon?

In either Grindelwald or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Grindelwald because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon 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 Lyon.

One day in Grindelwald or Lyon?

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.

Lyon is a cultural city where you can fill many days. 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 Lyon?

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.

Lyon is a beautiful big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Lyon?

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.

Lyon is a historic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Grindelwald or Lyon?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting Lyon. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Lyon, 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 Lyon?

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 Lyon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Lyon. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Grindelwald is generally around the same temperature as Lyon. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. Grindelwald usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 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 Lyon. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Lyon. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Lyon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Lyon. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Lyon in the Winter?

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

Lyon can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Lyon. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Grindelwald during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lyon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lyon. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Lyon. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Grindelwald