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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Salzburg?

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

Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural, recognizable, and historic city. 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 Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Salzburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Salzburg. Although Grindelwald and Salzburg are popular destinations, Salzburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Salzburg is very popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Grindelwald attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Salzburg is more touristy than Grindelwald and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also well known for The Salzburg Old Town. Grindelwald is famous for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Grindelwald different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Salzburg Better for Skiing?

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

Salzburg is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Many visitors head to Salzburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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 Salzburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

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 Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Salzburg has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Grindelwald or Salzburg Better for Music?

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

In Salzburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

Is Grindelwald or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg is revered around the world. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Salzburg Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Salzburg?

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

Salzburg is a world class destination for shoppers. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg Better for Families?

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

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.

Salzburg is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Is Grindelwald or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Salzburg has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Grindelwald is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Grindelwald or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald and Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Is Grindelwald or Salzburg Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Salzburg 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 Salzburg can get you to most places easily. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around 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 Salzburg a more walkable city?

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

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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 Salzburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Salzburg?

In either Grindelwald or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than Grindelwald because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

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

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

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

One day in Grindelwald or Salzburg?

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the recognizable city of Salzburg. 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 Salzburg?

Grindelwald is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grindelwald, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Salzburg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Grindelwald or Salzburg?

Grindelwald is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historic city of Salzburg. 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 Salzburg?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Salzburg. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Salzburg?

Salzburg has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Salzburg, 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 Salzburg?

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 Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Salzburg. 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 Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salzburg this time of the year. In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 227 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 Salzburg. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Salzburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Salzburg. 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 Salzburg in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Salzburg. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg 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 Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Salzburg can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Grindelwald is generally much warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 5°C (41°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Salzburg in the Spring?

Both Salzburg 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 Salzburg because of the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Salzburg. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Grindelwald