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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Tromso?

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

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a breathtaking, beautiful, and adventure-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Tromso

Tromso is a one-of-a-kind, spectacular, and remote town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, nightlife, and food.

Grindelwald and Tromso: 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
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Tromso?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Grindelwald and Tromso are popular destinations, Grindelwald has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grindelwald is very popular for its skiing, museums, and hiking, while Tromso attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is famous for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also well known for the beautiful mountain scenery. Tromso is famous for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Tromso Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Tromso

Grindelwald is a great town for skiing. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Tromso

Grindelwald is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.

Is the Food Better in Grindelwald or Tromso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Tromso

Tromso 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 Tromso is an experience not to be missed. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

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 Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Tromso

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

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 Tromso has a few options to choose from. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.


Is Grindelwald or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Tromso

Grindelwald is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Around Grindelwald visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Tromso is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Tromso?

Grindelwald
Tromso

Shopping is a popular activity in both Tromso and Grindelwald.

Grindelwald has some good spots for those that want to go 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Grindelwald or Tromso Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Tromso

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Tromso.

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.

Tromso is a very family-friendly destination. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.


Is Grindelwald or Tromso Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Tromso

Both Grindelwald and Tromso are superb 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.

Tromso is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

Is Grindelwald or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Tromso

Grindelwald is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Grindelwald or Tromso Better for Students?

Grindelwald
Tromso

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

Tromso is popular with students. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.


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

Grindelwald
Tromso

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Grindelwald and Tromso.

You'll find some public transit in Grindelwald, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel around the region.

While Tromso offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Grindelwald or Tromso a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Tromso

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

Tromso is a very walkable destination. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or 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 Tromso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Tromso?

Both Grindelwald and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Grindelwald. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Tromso 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 Grindelwald.


  • How many days in Grindelwald or Tromso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Tromso 4-7

One day in Grindelwald or Tromso?

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 one-of-a-kind town of Tromso. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Tromso?

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 nightlife when visiting the one-of-a-kind small town of Tromso. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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 Tromso?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the spectacular town of Tromso. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Tromso?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the small town destination of Tromso. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.


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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Tromso 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 Tromso is $112. 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 Tromso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Tromso $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Tromso $110
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Tromso

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Tromso? 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 Tromso


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 Tromso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Tromso $29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tromso

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

  • Highway to Heaven - Aurora Cable Car Transfer in Tromsø: $93
  • Private Airport and City Transfer in Tromso: $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Tromso?

Prices for flights to both Tromso 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
    Tromso $38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

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

  • 3 Hours Private Walking Food Tour in Norway: $167
  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $173
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $186
  • Fjord Cruise Expedition with Dinner,Tromso: $206
  • Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner: $250
  • Aurora Borealis Cruise with Dinner in Tromso: $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Tromso $17

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 Tromso

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tromso.

  • Touring-Trekking Bicycle Rental in Tromso - 1 to 2 Days: $46
  • Experience the Full Steam Storytelling Package: $46
  • Tromso Embrace the Spirits of the North Tasting Experience: $63
  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $74
  • Experience Cross-Country Adventure in Tromsø: $93
  • Northern Lights Walking Tour: $111
  • Fjord & History Cruise: $111
  • Tromso Sightseeing with E-Bike: $112
  • Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso: $117
  • History Fjordcruise Around The Isle Of Tromso - Luxury Catamaran: $121
  • From Tromso all- inclusive Midnight sun cruise by Boat: $126
  • Puppy Training Experience at a Husky Farm in Tromso: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Tromso $8.36


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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Tromso?

Tromso has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Grindelwald during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tromso in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Grindelwald is much warmer than Tromso in the summer. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Tromso, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Grindelwald. In the summer, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than Tromso. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Tromso 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Tromso in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Tromso. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tromso for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tromso can be very cold during autumn. In the autumn, Grindelwald is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Grindelwald in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Tromso averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tromso receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Tromso. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Tromso 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Tromso. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Tromso because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. Grindelwald can be very cold during winter. In January, Grindelwald is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 5°C (41°F), and Tromso fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Tromso. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Tromso -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Tromso in the Spring?

Both Tromso and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the spring. Grindelwald is much warmer than Tromso in the spring. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In April, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Tromso. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Tromso 1°C (33°F)

Typical Weather for Tromso and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Tromso
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) -4°C (25°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) -4°C (25°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) -2°C (28°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 1°C (33°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 7°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) -1°C (31°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) -3°C (27°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)