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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Munich?

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 Munich 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and skiing.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Munich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Munich?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Munich. Although Grindelwald and Munich are popular destinations, Munich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Munich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Grindelwald attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is famous for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Munich is famous for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also well known for The Nymphenburg Palace.

How is Grindelwald different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Munich Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is well known for winter skiing. However, Munich is not a skiing destination.

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.

Munich is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Many visitors head to Munich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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 Munich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Munich 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 Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich Better for Nightlife?

Munich is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Munich just to party. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich Better for Music?

Munich is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

In Munich you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

Is Grindelwald or Munich Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Munich 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.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Munich?

Munich is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Munich is a world class destination for shoppers. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich Better for Families?

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

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.

Munich is a very family-friendly destination. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Grindelwald or Munich Better for Couples?

Both Grindelwald and Munich 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.

Munich is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Grindelwald or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Munich is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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.

Is Grindelwald or Munich Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Munich 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 Munich can get you around easily. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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 Munich a more walkable city?

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

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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 Munich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Munich or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Munich?

In either Grindelwald or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Munich 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 Munich.

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

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

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

One day in Grindelwald or Munich?

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.

Munich is a high energy city where you can fill many days. 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 Munich?

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.

Munich is a high energy big city where you can fill many days. 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 Munich?

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.

Munich is a bustling city where you can fill many days. 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 Munich?

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 nightlife and live music when visiting Munich. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 340 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

Both Munich and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Munich for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Munich in the summer. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Munich. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Munich during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Munich. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich and Grindelwald during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Munich in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Munich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Grindelwald in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Munich. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Munich. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Munich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Munich. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the winter for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Munich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Munich can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Grindelwald is generally much warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 5°C (41°F), and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Munich. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Munich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Munich. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Munich because of the activities around the city.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Munich in the spring. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Munich. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the spring. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Munich. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Munich and Grindelwald