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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Nantes?

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

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a adventure-filled, high adrenaline, and breathtaking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Nantes

Nantes is a welcoming, friendly, and historical city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Nantes: 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 food
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Nantes?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantes. Although Grindelwald and Nantes are popular destinations, Nantes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantes is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Grindelwald attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Grindelwald is more touristy than Nantes and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Nantes is famous for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. It is also well known for The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany.

How is Grindelwald different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Nantes Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Nantes

Grindelwald is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Nantes is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Nantes is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Nantes

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

Many visitors head to Nantes specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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 Nantes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Nantes

Nantes 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.

Nantes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Nantes

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

Nantes is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

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 Nantes Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
Nantes

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

Nantes offers a nice historic old town area. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Nantes Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Nantes

Grindelwald is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Nantes?

Grindelwald
Nantes

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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 Nantes Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Nantes

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

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.

Nantes is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Is Grindelwald or Nantes Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Nantes

Both Grindelwald and Nantes 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.

Nantes is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

Is Grindelwald or Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Nantes

Grindelwald is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.


Is Grindelwald or Nantes Better for Students?

Grindelwald
Nantes

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

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Grindelwald
Nantes

Nantes is well known for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Nantes can get you to most places easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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 Nantes a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Nantes

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

Nantes is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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 Nantes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Nantes?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Grindelwald and Nantes. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nantes than in Grindelwald. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nantes.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Grindelwald or Nantes? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Nantes 2-3

One day in Grindelwald or Nantes?

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 nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Nantes. Most people visit for the food. 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 Nantes?

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 and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Nantes. 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 Nantes?

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 welcoming city of Nantes offers shopping and museums. 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 Nantes?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting Nantes. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the food. 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 in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Nantes 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 Nantes is $116. 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 Nantes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Nantes $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Nantes $128
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Nantes

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Nantes? 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 Nantes


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 Nantes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Nantes $38

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nantes

Also for Nantes, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $52
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes Airport to City centre: $65
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes city centre to Nantes Airport: $65
  • Nantes to Nantes Airport (NTE) - Departure Private Transfer: $26
  • Private Transfer from Airports to Nantes: $33
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Airport (NTE) to La Rochelle Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Atlantique Airport NTE to Puy du Fou Park: $174
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Hotels to La Rochelle Cruise Port: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Nantes?

Prices for flights to both Nantes 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
    Nantes $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nantes

For Nantes, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nantes Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Nantes Old Town with Local Guide: $145

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

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

Tours and Activities in Nantes

For Nantes, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Nantes Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Guided treetop adventure course in the heart of Nantes: $31
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $50
  • Nantes : Private Walking Tour With A Local : $51
  • Welcome to Private Tour with a Local: $51
  • Nantes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Panoramic Tour by Electric Bike: $59
  • PANORAMA TOUR OF NANTES by electric bike: $60
  • Nantes : Must-see Attractions Walking Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Nantes $6.89

Sample the Local Flavors in Nantes

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nantes:

  • Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class: $35


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Nantes?

Nantes has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Nantes, 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 Nantes?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Nantes in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Nantes. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Nantes for the family-friendly experiences.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Nantes in the summer. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Nantes fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nantes. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. In the summer, Grindelwald often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nantes. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the summer. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than Nantes. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Nantes 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Nantes in the Autumn?

Both Nantes and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Nantes in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Nantes. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Grindelwald in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Nantes averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In October, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Nantes. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Nantes 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Nantes in the Winter?

Both Nantes and Grindelwald during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the winter for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Grindelwald is generally cooler than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 5°C (41°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald usually gets less rain in January than Nantes. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Nantes 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Nantes in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Nantes. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nantes because of the natural beauty.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Nantes in the spring. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Nantes fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nantes during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Nantes. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Nantes and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Nantes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 6°C (42°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 11°C (51°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)