A Travel Price Comparison for Switzerland Interlaken vs. Grindelwald for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Skiing

Should you visit Interlaken or Grindelwald?

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

Interlaken

Interlaken is a breathtaking, world-class, and stunning town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include hiking, skiing, and food.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a adventure-filled, high adrenaline, and breathtaking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Interlaken and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Grindelwald?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Interlaken, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Interlaken is more popular for its food, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Grindelwald and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Grindelwald is well known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery.

The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Interlaken different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for winter skiing.

Grindelwald offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

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.

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

Grindelwald is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Interlaken is an experience not to be missed. 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Grindelwald. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Interlaken or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

You'll find fantastic hiking in both Interlaken and Grindelwald.

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.

Known for its hiking, Grindelwald draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Grindelwald?

Grindelwald is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Grindelwald is a good destination for shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular 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!

Grindelwald is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor activities.

Is Interlaken or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Interlaken is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Grindelwald is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

Is Interlaken or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Grindelwald is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

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 Grindelwald Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Interlaken is well known for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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.

While Grindelwald offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Interlaken or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Interlaken and Grindelwald are notable when it comes to walkability.

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

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable place. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.

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

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Interlaken or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Interlaken than Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald.

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

One day in Interlaken or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the stunning town of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grindelwald, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Interlaken or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the world-class destination of Interlaken. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Interlaken or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the breathtaking town of Interlaken. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Grindelwald, 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 Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Interlaken. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grindelwald is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 2-Week Tours from Zurich, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Switzerland.

When comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Grindelwald, we can see that Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Grindelwald?

Interlaken has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Grindelwald, 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 Grindelwald?

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 Grindelwald in the Summer?

Both Grindelwald and Interlaken during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

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

In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Interlaken. In the summer, Interlaken often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Grindelwald. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Interlaken usually gets less rain in July than Grindelwald. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Grindelwald. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Interlaken is cooler than Grindelwald in the autumn. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Interlaken or Grindelwald in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Grindelwald. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the winter for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. In the winter, Interlaken is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the winter temperatures in Interlaken in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Grindelwald. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Interlaken is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 12°C (53°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. In April, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Interlaken