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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Rouen?

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 Rouen 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.

Rouen

Rouen is a compact, impressive, and relaxing city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Rouen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Rouen are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm, while Rouen is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping. Grindelwald is more touristy than Rouen and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Rouen is popular for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Rouen Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Rouen

Grindelwald is notable for snow skiing. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Rouen

Rouen is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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 Rouen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Rouen

Rouen 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 Rouen is an experience not to be missed. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

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 Rouen Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Rouen

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Grindelwald and Rouen.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Rouen has a few options to choose from. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.


Is Grindelwald or Rouen Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
Rouen

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

Rouen offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Rouen Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Rouen

Grindelwald is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Rouen is not a hiking destination.

People visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Rouen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Rouen?

Grindelwald
Rouen

Rouen is very good for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Rouen to go shopping. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

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 Rouen Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Rouen

Grindelwald is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly town. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Grindelwald or Rouen Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Rouen

Both Grindelwald and Rouen are great 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.

Rouen is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Grindelwald or Rouen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Rouen

Grindelwald is notable for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.


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

Grindelwald
Rouen

Rouen 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 Rouen can get you to most places easily. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

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 Rouen a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Rouen

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

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored 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 Rouen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rouen or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Rouen?

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

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


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

One day in Grindelwald or Rouen?

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the compact city of Rouen. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Grindelwald or Rouen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the impressive destination of Rouen. 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 Rouen?

Grindelwald is a fun place to experience. Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The compact city of Rouen 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 Rouen?

Grindelwald is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rouen. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Rouen 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 Rouen is $117. 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 Rouen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Rouen $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Rouen $112
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Rouen

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Rouen? 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 Rouen


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 Rouen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Rouen $37

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 Rouen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rouen:

  • Round-Trip Private Transfer Rouen Airport URO to Rouen by Minivan: $164

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Rouen?

Prices for flights to both Rouen 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
    Rouen $38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Rouen $19

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 Rouen

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

  • Rouen audio guided tour: $13
  • Audio guided tour : Rouen retold - Joan of Arc retold: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center: $26
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center of Rouen: $26
  • The OFFICIAL Rouen Tour : The 1-hour must-sees: $27
  • Treetop adventure course in the heart of Rouen: $31
  • The OFFICIAL Rouen Tour : The 2-hours must-sees: $48
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $50
  • Welcome to Private Walking Tour with a Local: $51
  • Private Custom Walking Guided Tour in Rouen: $51
  • Rouen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Discover Rouen with a licenced tour guide: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Rouen $8.42


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Rouen?

Rouen has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Rouen, 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Rouen. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Rouen because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rouen 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 Rouen during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 241 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 Rouen. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Rouen 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Rouen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Rouen. The autumn months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Rouen this time of year.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Rouen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Rouen fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

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

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Rouen. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Rouen 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Rouen in the Winter?

Both Rouen and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rouen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Rouen. It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. In the winter, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Rouen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Rouen averages at about 4°C (39°F).

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

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Rouen. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Rouen 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Rouen in the Spring?

Both Rouen and Grindelwald during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rouen in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Rouen 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Rouen and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Rouen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 9°C (48°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)