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

Should you visit Interlaken or Fussen?

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

Interlaken

Interlaken is a adrenaline-filled, breathtaking, and world-class 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.

Fussen

Fussen is a quintesential, storybook, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Interlaken and Fussen: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Neuschwanstein Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Fussen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fussen. Although Interlaken and Fussen are popular destinations, Fussen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fussen is very popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Fussen and is known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Fussen is famous for its romantic atmosphere and its proximity to the Neuschwanstein Castle. It is also well known for The Neuschwanstein Castle.

The Neuschwanstein Castle
The Neuschwanstein Castle

How is Interlaken different from Fussen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Fussen Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Fussen

Interlaken is a popular place for skiing. However, Fussen 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.

Fussen is not a skiing destination.


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

Interlaken
Fussen

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

Fussen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people stopping in town are on their way to or from the Neuschwanstein Castle. It is one of the most famous castles in Germany as many people say it was the inspiration for the Disney Castle.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken
Fussen

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Fussen area. Many restaurants embrace the fairytale setting and offer their own storybook atmosphere. This is a well worn tourist path, so you'll find a number of restaurants serving traditional dishes specifically for the tourists.

Is Interlaken or Fussen Better for its Old Town?

Interlaken
Fussen

Fussen is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Fussen is revered around the world. The small old town is filled with classic German charm.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.


Is Interlaken or Fussen Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Fussen

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for hiking. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Interlaken specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Fussen is a popular spot for hiking. The countryside offers a number of beautiful trails that pass through forests and meadows. You'll also find waterfalls and nice viewpoints. The hikes are very well marked with excellent signage.

Is Interlaken or Fussen Better for Families?

Interlaken
Fussen

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Interlaken is a very family-friendly destination. 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!

Fussen is a family-friendly place to visit. Neuschwanstein Castle is not far away, and it's a big part of why some families may stay in this small town. Kids will also enjoy wandering around the old town and grabbing ice cream. Just outside of town is Lechfall, which is a manmade waterfall and a little further is the Treetop Walkway. The surrounding area also has a lot of natural beauty as well as giant alpine slides.

Is Interlaken or Fussen Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Fussen

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Fussen is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

Interlaken makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Fussen is a very popular place to visit for couples. It sits at the end of Germany's Romantic Road and the small town does not disappoint. For many, it's a stopover while visiting the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, but the surrounding countryside is also beautiful and worth exploring.


Is Interlaken or Fussen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Fussen

Interlaken and Fussen are both nice destinations 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Fussen. For its small size, the town has a number of hostels to choose from. Prices are reasonable, so this is a nice option for backpackers passing through the area.

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

Interlaken
Fussen

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

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

Fussen has a few public transit options. There are buses through the region including buses to Neuschwanstein Castle.

Is Interlaken or Fussen a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Fussen

Fussen 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 Fussen. It's easy to walk from one side of the old town to the other in half an hour.

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 Fussen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fussen or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Fussen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Interlaken and Fussen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Interlaken than in Fussen. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Interlaken, and 2-3 days is enough time in Fussen.

Families should spend more time in Interlaken than Fussen. 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 Fussen. 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 Fussen 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 Fussen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Interlaken 2-5 
    Fussen 2-3

One day in Interlaken or Fussen?

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.

Fussen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Interlaken or Fussen?

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.

Even though Fussen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 town.

Five days in Interlaken or Fussen?

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.

Fussen, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Fussen?

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.

Fussen 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 Oktoberfest Tours in Germany, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Fussen 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 Fussen is $225. 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 Fussen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $133
    Fussen $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $266
    Fussen $234
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Fussen

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Fussen? 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 Fussen


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 Fussen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Fussen $58
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 Fussen?

Prices for flights to both Fussen 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
    Fussen $63
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

Typical Food Prices in Fussen

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Fussen:


  • Lunch
    $11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Interlaken $104
    Fussen $64

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 Fussen

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

  • Füssen Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $254
  • Neuschwanstein Castle Ticket +Guide: $41
  • Neuschwanstein Castle Tour with Skip the Line from Hohenschwangau: $64
  • Neuschwanstein ticket+ City Bike from Fuessen: $51
  • Private tour of the best of Fussen - Sightseeing, Food & Culture with a local: $225
  • Skip The Line Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Hohenschwangau: $60
  • Skip the Line: Neuschwanstein Castle Private Tour From Füssen or Hohenschwangau: $270
  • Skip-the-Line: Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Hohenschwangau: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $17
    Fussen $21


When comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Fussen, we can see that Interlaken is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Fussen?

Fussen has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Fussen, 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.