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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Versailles?

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 Versailles 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Versailles

Versailles is a opulent, historic, and extensive palace. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums.

Grindelwald and Versailles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Versailles?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Versailles, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Versailles is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty. Versailles is more touristy than Grindelwald and is popular for its long running history and its grand architecture. Grindelwald is well known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Versailles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Versailles Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Versailles

Grindelwald is a great town for skiing. However, Versailles is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. 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.

Versailles is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Versailles

Versailles is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Versailles on the map. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

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 Versailles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Versailles

Grindelwald is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Versailles is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is Grindelwald or Versailles Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Versailles

Grindelwald is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Grindelwald or Versailles Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Versailles

Grindelwald is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Versailles 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.

Versailles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Versailles?

Grindelwald
Versailles

Grindelwald is adequate for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grindelwald or Versailles Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Versailles

Grindelwald is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.


Is Grindelwald or Versailles Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Versailles

Both Grindelwald and Versailles 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.

Versailles is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

Is Grindelwald or Versailles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Versailles

Grindelwald is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Grindelwald is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Grindelwald
Versailles

Versailles 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 Versailles can get you to most places easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

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 Versailles a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Versailles

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

Versailles is a very walkable destination. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

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 Versailles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Versailles or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Versailles?

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

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Versailles. 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 Grindelwald than Versailles. 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 Versailles 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 Versailles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Versailles 1-2

One day in Grindelwald or Versailles?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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, one day is sufficent for most.

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the opulent palace of Versailles. Most people visit for the museums. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this palace has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Grindelwald or Versailles?

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the ornate destination of Versailles. This palace 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 Versailles?

Grindelwald, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The historic palace of Versailles offers 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 Versailles?

Grindelwald is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Versailles. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. 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 Sightseeing Tours in France, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Versailles 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 Versailles is $251. 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 Versailles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Versailles $138
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Versailles $276
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Versailles

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald or Versailles? 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 Versailles


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 Versailles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Versailles $56

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Versailles?

Prices for flights to both Versailles 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
    Versailles $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Versailles $48

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 Versailles

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

  • Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket: $67
  • Versailles Palace Private Family Tour Designed for Kids: $261
  • Private Guided Tour of the Palace: $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grindelwald $33
    Versailles $19


When comparing the travel costs between Grindelwald and Versailles, we can see that Versailles is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Versailles?

Versailles has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Versailles, 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles in the Summer?

Both Versailles and Grindelwald during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

In the summer, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Versailles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Grindelwald in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Versailles averages at about 20°C (68°F).

In Versailles, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Grindelwald. In the summer, Grindelwald often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Versailles. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 239 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than Versailles. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Versailles 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Versailles in the Autumn?

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

In October, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Versailles. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 15°C (58°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Versailles during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Versailles. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Grindelwald or Versailles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Versailles. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the winter for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Versailles for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Versailles can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. Grindelwald is around the same temperature as Versailles in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Versailles fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Versailles. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 56 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald usually gets more rain in January than Versailles. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Versailles 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Versailles in the Spring?

Both Versailles and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Versailles because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Versailles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Grindelwald in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Versailles averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Grindelwald usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Versailles during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In April, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Versailles. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Versailles 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Versailles and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Versailles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)