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

Should you visit Interlaken or Cannes?

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 Cannes can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a breathtaking, world-class, and stunning town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include hiking, skiing, and food.

Cannes

Cannes is a lavish, glitzy, and opulent resort city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Interlaken and Cannes: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Cannes?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cannes than Interlaken, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cannes is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Interlaken is more popular for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is well known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Cannes is well known for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. Also, Cannes is famous for Boulevard de la Croisette.

How is Interlaken different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Cannes

Interlaken is very good for snow skiing. However, Cannes 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.

Cannes is not a skiing destination.


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

Interlaken
Cannes

Cannes is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Cannes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Interlaken. 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.

Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Cannes

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

Cannes has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Music?

Interlaken
Cannes

Cannes is a world-class destination for live music. However, Interlaken is not a live music destination.

Cannes is known as a music capital around the world. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Interlaken is not a live music destination.


Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Resorts?

Interlaken
Cannes

Cannes is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Interlaken is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Cannes is a perfect choice. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Interlaken is not a resort destination.

Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Interlaken
Cannes

Cannes is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Interlaken is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Cannes. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Interlaken is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Interlaken
Cannes

Cannes is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Interlaken is not a beach destination.

Cannes is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Interlaken is not a beach destination.


Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

Interlaken
Cannes

Cannes 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 Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Cannes

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Cannes 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.

Cannes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Cannes?

Interlaken
Cannes

Cannes is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Cannes. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Families?

Interlaken
Cannes

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its kid-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!

Cannes is a family-friendly town. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Cannes

Both Interlaken and Cannes are fantastic destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Cannes has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Is Interlaken or Cannes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Cannes

Interlaken is very good for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.


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

Interlaken
Cannes

Interlaken is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Interlaken offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Cannes has some public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

Is Interlaken or Cannes a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Cannes

Cannes is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Cannes is very walkable. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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 Cannes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Cannes?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Interlaken or Cannes? Ideal Length of Stay
    Interlaken 2-5 
    Cannes 2-4

One day in Interlaken or Cannes?

Many travelers enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Interlaken. 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.

With live music and food around the glitzy resort city of Cannes, there's plenty to do. 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 Cannes?

Interlaken 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Cannes, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this resort city.

Five days in Interlaken or Cannes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

Cannes, a popular resort city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Cannes?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the stunning destination of Interlaken. 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.

Cannes 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 Bicycle Tours in France, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France.


Which place is cheaper, Cannes 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 Cannes is $147. 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 Cannes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $133
    Cannes $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $266
    Cannes $160
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Cannes

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Cannes? 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 Cannes


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 Cannes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Cannes $17
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:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cannes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cannes:

  • Villefranche-sur-Mer-Port de la Santé: Transfer to Cannes: $399
  • Transfer Nice Airport French Riviera: $125
  • Private Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Luxury Van: $116
  • Private Transfer from Cannes Port to Nice Cote Airport (NCE): $82
  • Private Transfer from Cannes Cruise Port to Monaco City Hotels: $91
  • Private One-way Transfer From Cannes to Nice, 2h Stop in Antibes: $124
  • Private Direct Transfer From Cannes to Nice: $101
  • Private Direct Transfer From Cannes to Monaco: $139
  • Mandelieu to St Tropez Round Trip Ferry Transfer: $95
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Nice Airport: $128
  • Departure Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Business Car: $103
  • Copenhagen: One Way Transfer to & from International Airport: $71

Is it cheaper to fly into Interlaken or Cannes?

Prices for flights to both Cannes 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
    Cannes $49
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
    Cannes $32

Tours and Activities in Interlaken

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

  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Hofstetten bei Brienz: Trauffer Erlebniswelt Ticket: $16
  • Private Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Express Tour from Interlaken: $29
  • Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm: $42
  • Rope Park Climbing Adventure with Entry Ticket: $46
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder: $86
  • Bollywood Tour Gstaad - Express Tour: $90
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder (Top of Interlaken): $102
  • Interlaken Valley Bike Tour: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $108
  • Bike Tour of the Interlaken Valley: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $111
  • Waterfalls Day Tour: $119

Tours and Activities in Cannes

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cannes are as follows:

  • Watch the Fireworks from the boat. Unique experience: $1,593
  • Cannes 2 Hours : Privat City Tour in a French Vintage Bus: $315
  • Cannes 2.5-Hour E-bike Tour: $74
  • Cannes : Ferrari experience: $214
  • Cannes : Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102
  • Cannes Discovery: walking Tour Led by a Local Expert: $38
  • Cannes E-Bike Guided Tour: $75
  • Cannes Experience private boat tour Islands French Riviera: $631
  • Cannes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Cannes Luxury Catamaran Half or Day Cruise with lunch option: $96
  • Cannes Royal Regatta Catamaran cruise: $107
  • Cannes Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.84

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $17
    Cannes $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Cannes

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

  • St Paul de Vence, Antibes & Wine Tasting from Cannes: $130
  • Grasse, Valbonne & Gourdon: Day Tour with Wine Tasting: $139
  • French Riviera: Provencal Wine Tours: $759
  • Wine Tasting, Cannes, Coco Chanel, Perfume Factory & Grasse: $1,273


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

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Cannes?

Cannes has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Cannes, 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 Cannes?

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 Interlaken or Cannes in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Cannes. The summer months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cannes this time of year.

In July, Interlaken is generally around the same temperature as Cannes. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 21°C (70°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Cannes. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F) 
    Cannes 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Cannes in the Autumn?

Both Cannes and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cannes for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Interlaken is cooler than Cannes in the autumn. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Cannes fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cannes. In October, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Cannes. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F) 
    Cannes 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Cannes in the Winter?

Both Cannes and Interlaken during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cannes in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. In the winter, Interlaken is much colder than Cannes. Typically, the winter temperatures in Interlaken in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Cannes averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Interlaken usually gets less rain in January than Cannes. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F) 
    Cannes 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Cannes in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Cannes. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cannes for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Interlaken is generally cooler than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 12°C (53°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Cannes. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F) 
    Cannes 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Cannes and Interlaken

Interlaken Cannes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)