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

Should you visit Interlaken or Gjovik?

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

Interlaken

Interlaken is a breathtaking, world-class, and stunning town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Gjovik

Gjovik is a accessible, friendly, and relaxed town. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Gjovik: 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
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Gjovik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Interlaken than Gjovik, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Interlaken is better known for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Gjovik is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Interlaken is more touristy than Gjovik and is known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Also, Interlaken is famous for its many mountain views.. Gjovik is well known for its beautiful surrounding countryside and nice landscape.

How is Interlaken different from Gjovik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Gjovik Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Gjovik

Interlaken is very good for skiing and snowboarding. However, Gjovik 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.

Gjovik is not a skiing destination.


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

Interlaken
Gjovik

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

Gjovik is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of sights and attractions near town such as the Gjøvik Olympic Cavern Hall and the Royal Palace.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken
Gjovik

Foodies will find both Interlaken and Gjovik both to be very good destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Gjovik. You'll find many local restaurants that range from fine dining opportunities to local cafes. Dishes usually include local ingredients that are fresh and high quality.

Is Interlaken or Gjovik Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Gjovik

Gjovik is very good for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Gjovik. You'll find some bars and pubs around town as well as a couple of nightclubs.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Interlaken or Gjovik Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Gjovik

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Gjovik 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.

Gjovik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Gjovik?

Interlaken
Gjovik

Gjovik is very good for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Gjovik. The town center has some nice retail shops with clothing and other interesting items.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Gjovik Better for Families?

Interlaken
Gjovik

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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!

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Gjovik. You'll find a combination of museums and outdoor adventure activities. There are climbing parks, Olympic centers, and art galleries that the whole family can enjoy.


Is Interlaken or Gjovik Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Gjovik

Interlaken is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Gjovik is a nice destination for couples. You'll find romantic hotels and many great museums or outdoor parks that couples will appreciate.

Is Interlaken or Gjovik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Gjovik

Interlaken and Gjovik are both notable 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 Gjovik. There's at least one hostel around town, and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Interlaken or Gjovik Better for Students?

Interlaken
Gjovik

Gjovik is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Gjovik. The location offers access to much of what Norway has to offer, making it a nice place to base yourself while you're studying.

Interlaken is not popular with students.


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

Interlaken
Gjovik

Interlaken is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Gjovik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Gjovik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel through town.

Is Interlaken or Gjovik a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Gjovik

Interlaken and Gjovik are notable when it comes to walkability.

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

Gjovik is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas as well as walking paths just outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Gjovik or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Gjovik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Interlaken and Gjovik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Interlaken than in Gjovik. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Interlaken, and 1-3 days is enough time in Gjovik.

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


  • How many days in Interlaken or Gjovik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Interlaken 2-5 
    Gjovik 1-3

One day in Interlaken or Gjovik?

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


A weekend in Interlaken or Gjovik?

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 nightlife and food around the destination of Gjovik, 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 Gjovik?

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.

Gjovik, 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 Gjovik?

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.

Gjovik 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Norway, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Gjovik 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 Gjovik is $75. 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 Gjovik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $133
    Gjovik $47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $266
    Gjovik $94
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Gjovik

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Gjovik? 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 Gjovik


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Gjovik $5.91
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 Transfer from Interlaken to Zurich: $240
  • Private Group transfer Zurich Airport - Interlaken: $1,312
  • Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $160
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $284

Is it cheaper to fly into Interlaken or Gjovik?

Prices for flights to both Gjovik 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
    Gjovik $23
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
    Gjovik $6.56

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $17
    Gjovik $5.91


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

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Gjovik?

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

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 Gjovik in the Summer?

Both Gjovik and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Gjovik this time of year.

In July, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Gjovik. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 21°C (70°F), and Gjovik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Gjovik. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Interlaken. Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gjovik during summer. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Gjovik receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gjovik. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F) 
    Gjovik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Gjovik in the Autumn?

Both Gjovik and Interlaken during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Gjovik for the shopping scene.

Interlaken is much warmer than Gjovik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Gjovik fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Gjovik. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gjovik receives 86 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets less rain in October than Gjovik. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F) 
    Gjovik 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Gjovik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Gjovik. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Gjovik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Gjovik can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. In the winter, Interlaken is much warmer than Gjovik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Interlaken in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Gjovik averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Gjovik during winter. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Gjovik receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Gjovik. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Gjovik receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F) 
    Gjovik -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Gjovik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Gjovik. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Interlaken is generally much warmer than Gjovik. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 12°C (53°F), and Gjovik fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

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

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F) 
    Gjovik 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Gjovik and Interlaken

Interlaken Gjovik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)