A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inner Hebrides vs. Murren for Hiking, Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Inner Hebrides or Murren?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Inner Hebrides or Murren? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a peaceful, tranquil, and stunning islands. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Murren

Murren is a serene, authentic, and breathtaking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include skiing, food, and hiking.

Inner Hebrides and Murren: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Inner Hebrides or Murren?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Murren. Although Inner Hebrides and Murren are both popular with visitors, Murren has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Murren is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Inner Hebrides is known for its beaches. Murren is more touristy than Inner Hebrides and is popular for its spectacular mountain views, authentically local atmosphere, and world class hiking and skiing. It is also home to Lauterbrunnen Valley. Inner Hebrides is popular for its rugged landscape, beautiful coastline, and local whisky.

How is Inner Hebrides different from Murren?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Inner Hebrides or Murren Better for Skiing?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Murren is an unbeatable place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Inner Hebrides is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Murren should be on your list. If you're visiting in the winter, you're in luck because the scenery and the slopes are both amazing. The top of Schilthorn is quickly accessed from the gondola and ski lifts, and heading down you'll find some difficult runs along with easier slopes. Enjoy your apres-ski in the village with cozy drinks and a dinner of fondue. And with more time, you can easily get across the valley to the Grindelwald-Wengen ski area, too.

Inner Hebrides is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Inner Hebrides or Murren?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Murren is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Murren. You don't visit this area for the museums, so if you're looking for an indoor activity on a rainy day, your options are limited.

Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Inner Hebrides or Murren? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Dining out at restaurants in both Inner Hebrides and Murren can be an enjoyable experience.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Inner Hebrides. It wasn't long ago that there was a limited selection of restaurants on the islands, but these days you shouldn't have much trouble finding some Scottish classics. The area continues to grow its restaurant scene, which highlights regional ingredients and the local whisky distilleries.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Murren. If you can afford the prices, you'll enjoy some great meals of fondue or local steak. There aren't many restaurants in town and some of the best are attached to the hotels. Those on a tight budget will be frustrated because cheap eats are hard to come by. You may as well pay a little more and enjoy a high quality, fine dining experience.

Is Inner Hebrides or Murren Better for Nightlife?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Murren is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Murren. It's a quiet and residential town that is more about the daytime activities than the nightlife scene.

Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Inner Hebrides or Murren Better for Beaches?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Inner Hebrides is well known for its beaches. However, Murren is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Inner Hebrides attract visitors from all over. The islands offer a truly unexpected sight, with white sand beaches and blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull, Machir Bay on the Isle of Islay, and Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

Murren is not a beach destination.

Is Inner Hebrides or Murren Better for Hiking?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Murren is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Murren specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking trails pass right through the town, connecting the many alpine towns in the area. There are hikes for all levels, and each offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, which include Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Inner Hebrides. To fully experience the area's natural beauty, you really should go on a few hikes. The hikes are varied in landscape, length, and skill level. Some of the favorites include Beinn an Òir, Coire Dubh, and Ben More.

Is the Shopping Better in Inner Hebrides or Murren?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Murren is not a good area for shopping. However, Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Murren can be found for those interested. Aside from a food market or two, there aren't many shops in town and prices for everything are a bit high.

Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Inner Hebrides or Murren Better for Families?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

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

Murren is a very family-friendly destination. Kid-friendly activities are everywhere in this amazing town. Take the Allmendhubel Funicular Train and explore one of the coolest playgrounds ever! Family-friendly trails abound and outdoor adventures with spectacular views are fun for everyone.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Inner Hebrides. Beaches, wildlife spotting, and boat tours all make for a fun adventure for the whole family. These islands offer a unique and truly rewarding experience that is fun for everyone.

Is Inner Hebrides or Murren Better for Couples?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Murren is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Murren makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This small town offers charming hotels, hidden viewpoints, and romantic hikes through the Alps. If you want to experience an authentic side to the Alps, then stay in this town and explore the many hiking trails in the area.

Couples visit Inner Hebrides frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who want to move at a slower pace and soak up natural beauty will appreciate these islands. There are sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and spectacular views that offer both romance and a little adventure.

Is Inner Hebrides or Murren Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Inner Hebrides is a islands with good options for backpackers. However, Murren is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Inner Hebrides is a good islands to visit for backpackers. The islands have some campsites that let you fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty.

Murren is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in town so it's a bit difficult to stay in Murren as a backpacker. There are a number of charming hostels in the surrounding area though and they each have a unique local character.


Is Inner Hebrides or Murren Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Murren is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Inner Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Murren has some public transit options. Train, cable car, and funicular are the only ways to reach this car-free town.

Public transit is generally limited in Inner Hebrides. Ferries and some local buses are available. It's also possible to find there-and-back day cruises to the islands.

Is Inner Hebrides or Murren a more walkable city?

Inner Hebrides
Murren

Murren is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Murren. It's a small town with a very limited number of vehicles so it's best explored on foot. There are also many walking trails in the area.

Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Inner Hebrides Worth Visiting? and Is Murren Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Murren or Inner Hebrides?

How long in Inner Hebrides or Murren?

It's fun to spend time in either Inner Hebrides or Murren. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Inner Hebrides due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Inner Hebrides, and 2-4 days is enough time in Murren.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Murren than Inner Hebrides 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 Murren.


  • How many days in Inner Hebrides or Murren? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inner Hebrides 3-5 
    Murren 2-4

One day in Inner Hebrides or Murren?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Inner Hebrides. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Murren might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Inner Hebrides or Murren?

Inner Hebrides is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Murren is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Inner Hebrides or Murren?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Inner Hebrides. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Murren. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Inner Hebrides or Murren?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the stunning destination of Inner Hebrides. This islands 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.

Murren is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Murren or Inner Hebrides?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Inner Hebrides is £142, while the average daily cost in Murren is £328. 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 Inner Hebrides and Murren in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inner Hebrides £67
    Murren £175
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inner Hebrides £134
    Murren £350
Compare Hotels in Inner Hebrides and Murren

Looking for a hotel in Inner Hebrides or Murren? 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 Inner Hebrides


Hotels in Murren


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: Murren Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inner Hebrides £76
    Murren £40

Is it cheaper to fly into Inner Hebrides or Murren?

Prices for flights to both Murren and Inner Hebrides 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
    Inner Hebrides £31
    Murren £121

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Murren

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Murren.

  • Sunset hike with outdoor Cheese Fondue dinner: $167

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Inner Hebrides £22
    Murren £48

Tours and Activities in Murren

Here are a few actual costs in Murren for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Private Speedriding Tandem Experience in Switzerland: $279
  • Sledding adventure with Chocolate degustation: $129
  • Swiss countryside tour in free-cars town: $123

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Inner Hebrides £7.71
    Murren £15


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Inner Hebrides and Murren, we can see that Murren is more expensive. And not only is Inner Hebrides much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Inner Hebrides would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Inner Hebrides 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 Murren would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Murren than you might in Inner Hebrides.

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


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