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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Vienna?

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 Vienna 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Vienna

Vienna is a artistic, musical, and ritzy city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Vienna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vienna. Although Grindelwald and Vienna are both popular with visitors, Vienna has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vienna is more popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Grindelwald is known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Vienna is more touristy than Grindelwald and is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. It is also home to The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Grindelwald different from Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Vienna Better for Skiing?

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

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Grindelwald. 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.

Vienna is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Many visitors head to Vienna specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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 Vienna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vienna 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 Vienna is an experience not to be missed. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

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 Vienna Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Vienna has a few options to choose from. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Grindelwald or Vienna Better for Music?

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

In Vienna you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

Is Grindelwald or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

Vienna 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 Vienna is revered around the world. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Vienna Better for Hiking?

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

Vienna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Vienna?

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

Vienna is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

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 Vienna Better for Families?

Grindelwald is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Grindelwald is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Grindelwald or Vienna Better for Couples?

Vienna 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, Vienna has plenty to offer. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

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 Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Vienna is a good town to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Grindelwald or Vienna Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Vienna. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Vienna is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Vienna can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

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 Vienna a more walkable city?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Vienna on foot is easy. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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 Vienna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Vienna?

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

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

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

One day in Grindelwald or Vienna?

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 food and shopping when visiting the classical city of Vienna. 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 Vienna?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the classical destination of Vienna. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Vienna?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the musical city of Vienna. 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 Vienna?

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 nightlife and live music when visiting Vienna. 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Vienna?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 450 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald and Vienna, 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 Vienna?

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 Vienna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Vienna. 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 Vienna for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Grindelwald is generally around the same temperature as Vienna. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 23°C (73°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vienna. 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 Vienna. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the summer. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than Vienna. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Vienna in the Autumn?

Both Vienna 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 Vienna in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Vienna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Vienna fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Vienna during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 140 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In October, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Vienna. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Vienna in the Winter?

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

Vienna can be very cold during winter. Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Grindelwald is much warmer than Vienna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Grindelwald in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Vienna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Vienna. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald usually gets more rain in January than Vienna. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Vienna in the Spring?

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

In April, Grindelwald is generally around the same temperature as Vienna. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 13°C (55°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vienna this time of the year. Grindelwald usually receives less sunshine than Vienna during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 202 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 Vienna. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vienna and Grindelwald