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

Should you visit Interlaken or Budapest?

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 Budapest 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. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and skiing.

Budapest

Budapest is a cultural, artistic, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Budapest?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Budapest. Although Interlaken and Budapest are popular destinations, Budapest has more sights and attractions for tourists. Budapest is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Budapest and is known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Budapest is famous for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Hungarian Parliament Building.

How is Interlaken different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Budapest Better for Skiing?

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

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. 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.

Budapest is not a skiing destination.

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

Budapest is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Interlaken has a huge number of terrific 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Interlaken or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Budapest is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Budapest has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Budapest is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Budapest Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is terrific for hiking. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Budapest?

Budapest is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Budapest Better for Families?

Interlaken is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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!

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Interlaken or Budapest Better for Couples?

Interlaken is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Interlaken or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. 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.

Is Interlaken or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Budapest is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Budapest can get you around easily. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Is Interlaken or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Budapest. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Budapest?

In either Interlaken or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Budapest has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Budapest than Interlaken. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Interlaken than Budapest. 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 Budapest. 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 Budapest than Interlaken 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 Budapest.

One day in Interlaken or Budapest?

The beautiful town of Interlaken offers food and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

When visiting Budapest, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Interlaken or Budapest?

Interlaken is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Interlaken, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

When visiting Budapest, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Interlaken or Budapest?

Interlaken is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Interlaken, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Budapest, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Interlaken or Budapest?

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Budapest 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Budapest. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Budapest averages at about 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Budapest this time of the year. In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during summer. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Budapest. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Interlaken or Budapest in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Budapest. 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 Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in October than Budapest. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest 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 Budapest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Budapest can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. Interlaken is much warmer than Budapest in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during winter. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Budapest. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Interlaken or Budapest in the Spring?

Both Budapest 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 Budapest for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Budapest. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in April than Budapest. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Interlaken