A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Interlaken vs. Auxerre for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Interlaken or Auxerre?

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 Interlaken and Auxerre can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a breathtaking, world-class, and stunning town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and food.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a authentic, under-rated, and undiscovered town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Interlaken and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Auxerre?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Interlaken than Auxerre, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Interlaken is better known for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Auxerre is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and small town charm. Interlaken is more touristy than Auxerre and is known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Also, Interlaken is famous for its many mountain views.. Auxerre is well known for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Interlaken different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Auxerre Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Interlaken is very good for skiing. However, Auxerre is not a skiing destination.

Head to Interlaken for some great skiing and other winter activities. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Auxerre is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Interlaken or Auxerre?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Auxerre is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Interlaken or Auxerre? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Interlaken is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Interlaken has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Interlaken or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Auxerre is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Auxerre. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Interlaken or Auxerre Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Auxerre is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Interlaken specifically for its hiking. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Auxerre is not a hiking destination.

Is Interlaken or Auxerre Better for Families?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Interlaken is one of the most popular family destinations. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Interlaken or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Interlaken has plenty to offer. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.


Is Interlaken or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Interlaken is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Interlaken is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

Is Interlaken or Auxerre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Interlaken is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

The public transit in Interlaken can get you to most places easily. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around town.

Is Interlaken or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Auxerre

Interlaken and Auxerre are notable when it comes to walkability.

Interlaken is somewhat walkable. The old town is relatively walkable.

Auxerre is a somewhat walkable place. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.


For even more information, also check out Is Interlaken Worth Visiting? and Is Auxerre Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Interlaken or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Interlaken than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Interlaken, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Interlaken than Auxerre 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 Interlaken.


  • How many days in Interlaken or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Interlaken 2-5 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Interlaken or Auxerre?

In Interlaken, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and food around the undiscovered town of Auxerre, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Auxerre, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Interlaken or Auxerre?

In Interlaken, you'll find food and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer.

With food and museums around the destination of Auxerre, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Interlaken or Auxerre?

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Auxerre, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Interlaken or Auxerre?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Interlaken. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Auxerre is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Interlaken?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Interlaken is $231, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is $121. 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 Interlaken and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $133
    Auxerre $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $266
    Auxerre $110
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Auxerre? 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 Interlaken


Hotels in Auxerre


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: Interlaken Hotel Prices and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Auxerre $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Interlaken

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Interlaken are as follows:


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

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

  • Private Group transfer Zurich Airport - Interlaken: $1,312
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $284
  • Private Transfer from Interlaken to Zurich: $240
  • Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Interlaken or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Interlaken 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
    Interlaken $64
    Auxerre $37
Typical Food Prices in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    $33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Interlaken

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

  • Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland: $143
  • Cheese and Chocolate Full-Day Food Tour: $733

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Interlaken $104
    Auxerre $19

Tours and Activities in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hidden gems e-bike tour with picnic at Lake Brienz : $212
  • Iseltwald, Aare Gorge and Lake Brienz Experience in Switzerland: $290
  • 007 Elegance: Private Tour to Schilthorn from Interlaken: $480
  • A Day at Lake Brienz and Lauterbrunnen Tour from Zurich: $1,260
  • Alpine Heights Jungfraujoch Small Group Tour from Interlaken: $529
  • Alpine Majesty: Bern to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $835
  • Bern: Grindelwald First & Bachalpsee Hiking Private Tour: $709
  • Bike Tour of the Interlaken Valley: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $111
  • Bollywood Tour Gstaad - Express Tour: $90
  • Canyoning Experience Grimsel from Interlaken : $200
  • From Grimsel Gorge Canyoning Tour: $196
  • From Gruyères, Cheese Factory & Cailler Tour: $290

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

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

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $17
    Auxerre $6.58

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Auxerre:

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


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

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Auxerre?

Auxerre has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Auxerre, 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 Interlaken or Auxerre?

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 Interlaken or Auxerre in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Auxerre. The summer months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year.

In July, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 21°C (70°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Auxerre this time of the year. In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre during summer. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Auxerre in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Auxerre. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Auxerre for the small town atmosphere.

Interlaken is around the same temperature as Auxerre in the autumn. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Auxerre fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Interlaken often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in October than Auxerre. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Auxerre in the Winter?

Both Auxerre and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Auxerre in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Auxerre can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. In the winter, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Auxerre. Typically, the winter temperatures in Interlaken in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Auxerre averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre during winter. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Auxerre in the Spring?

Both Auxerre and Interlaken during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Auxerre for the small town charm during these months.

In April, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 12°C (53°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Auxerre. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in April than Auxerre. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Interlaken

Interlaken Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)