A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Interlaken vs. Innsbruck for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Skiing

Should you visit Interlaken or Innsbruck?

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

Interlaken

Interlaken is a stunning, adventurous, and adrenaline-filled town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a mountainous, scenic, and youthful city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Interlaken and Innsbruck: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Innsbruck?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Innsbruck. Although Interlaken and Innsbruck are popular destinations, Innsbruck has more sights and attractions for tourists. Innsbruck is very popular for its skiing, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its hiking. Interlaken is famous for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Innsbruck is famous for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. It is also well known for The Golden Roof in the old town.

The Golden Roof in the old town
The Golden Roof in the old town

How is Interlaken different from Innsbruck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Innsbruck Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Innsbruck

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

Innsbruck offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. This city offers easy access to excellent skiing without having to travel too far. There are 9 ski resorts around town that make up the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck. Each resort has its own personality and style. You can reach the Seegrube mountain in about 20 minutes using the funicular and cable car.

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.


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

Interlaken
Innsbruck

Foodies will find both Interlaken and Innsbruck both to be superb 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 Innsbruck. The city is known for the hearty and filling food that is perfect for a cold winter day. There are cafes and restaurants around old town that offer traditional dishes including käsespätzle, wiener schnitzel, and apfelstrudel. If you're ready for something a little less heavy, there are a number of ethnic restaurants to choose from outside of the old town.

Is Interlaken or Innsbruck Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Innsbruck

Both Interlaken and Innsbruck have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Interlaken has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are tons of pubs and bars around town. This is the best way to meet locals and makes for a fun night out on the town. The atmosphere is generally laid back and relaxed, which matches the mellow vibe of the town.

The people in Innsbruck know how to have a good time. With its large student population and wide range of young visitors who enjoy high energy activities, there's plenty to do here when the sunsets. There are bars and dance clubs that stay active late into the night.

Is Interlaken or Innsbruck Better for its Old Town?

Interlaken
Innsbruck

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

The historic old town of Innsbruck is revered around the world. The old town is filled with charming restaurants and cafes as well as comfortable outdoor places to relax when the weather is nice. One of the most notable landmarks is the The Goldenes Dachl, or the "little golden roof", but the atmosphere around old town is what makes this place really special.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.


Is Interlaken or Innsbruck Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Innsbruck

Interlaken is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Interlaken visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Innsbruck. The city is nestled in the Austrian mountains with many beautiful hikes just outside of town. There are hikes for all skill levels that offer spectacular views of some of the best scenery in Austria.

Is Interlaken or Innsbruck Better for Families?

Interlaken
Innsbruck

Interlaken is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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 family-friendly things to do in Innsbruck. The city has a pleasant atmosphere with a charming old town and plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. There's also the popular Swarovski Crystal Worlds, which is fun for kids and adults alike. The Alpine Zoo and the city's many parks and playgrounds all make it a great stop if you're traveling with kids.

Is Interlaken or Innsbruck Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Innsbruck

Interlaken is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Interlaken is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Innsbruck makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's old town is filled with restaurants that make for great date nights. There are also many hikes, viewpoints, and activities that are perfect for a couple's getaway.


Is Interlaken or Innsbruck Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Innsbruck

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

Innsbruck is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has a number of hostels and affordable restaurants that make it a reasonable option for backpackers and budget travelers. Outdoor activities like nearby hiking are affordable ways to spend the day as well.

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 Innsbruck Better for Students?

Interlaken
Innsbruck

Innsbruck is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Innsbruck is very popular with students. The city's laid back vibe and wide range of universities make it a great place for students. There are cafes, bars, and many outdoor activities that students enjoy while they're in the area.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Interlaken
Innsbruck

Visitors will find superb public transit in both Interlaken and Innsbruck.

Public transit in Interlaken is fairly effecient and thorough. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Innsbruck has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.


Is Interlaken or Innsbruck a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Innsbruck

Innsbruck 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.

Innsbruck is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable, and if you stay anywhere nearby, it's easy to reach it on foot.

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 Innsbruck Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Innsbruck or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Innsbruck?

It's fun to spend time in either Interlaken or Innsbruck. 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 Innsbruck.

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


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

One day in Interlaken or Innsbruck?

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Interlaken. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With food and skiing around the youthful city of Innsbruck, there's plenty to do. 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 Innsbruck?

You'll find food and skiing around the breathtaking destination of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Innsbruck, there's plenty to do. 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 Innsbruck?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the world-class town of Interlaken. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Innsbruck, a popular city, 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 Innsbruck?

Interlaken is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Innsbruck 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Austria, and The Best Adventure Tours to Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Innsbruck or Interlaken?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Interlaken is $251, while the average daily cost in Innsbruck is $143. 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 Innsbruck in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $145
    Innsbruck $85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $290
    Innsbruck $170
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Innsbruck

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Innsbruck? 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 Innsbruck


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 Innsbruck Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $14
    Innsbruck $17
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Interlaken

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Interlaken are as follows:


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    $71

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

Also for Interlaken, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from interlaken City to Lucerne City: $112
  • Private Transfer from Interlaken to Zurich: $246
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $303
  • Private Group transfer Zurich Airport - Interlaken: $1,398

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • Roundtrip Transfer to Innsbruck Airport, Kitzbühel, and SkiWelt: $134
  • Private Transfer Innsbruck Airport INN to Saalbach-Hinterglemm: $50
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Salzburg: $285
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Munich, English Speaking Driver: $202
  • Innsbruck Swarovski Crystal Worlds Ticket and Transfer: $37
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport(INN) to Längenfeld/Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN) to Innsbruck - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $34
  • Innsbruck Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Round-Trip Transfer: $78
  • Innsbruck Airport INN to St Anton am Arlberg RoundTrip Transfer: $134
  • Innsbruck Airport INN to Alpbach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $89
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to St.Anton am Arlberg - Arrival Transfer: $67
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Soelden - Arrival Private Transfer: $67

Is it cheaper to fly into Interlaken or Innsbruck?

Prices for flights to both Innsbruck 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 $70
    Innsbruck $45
Typical Food Prices in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • From Night Sledding with Cheese Fondue Dinner: $139
  • Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland: $152
  • Cheese and Chocolate Full-Day Food Tour: $781

Typical Food Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of dining costs in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Soup for Lunch
    $4.19
  • Pasta Lunch
    $9.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Innsbruck

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Innsbruck.

  • Half-Day Food Tour of Tyrolean Cuisine: $151
  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $154

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Interlaken $113
    Innsbruck $21

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: $8.37
  • Hofstetten bei Brienz: Trauffer Erlebniswelt Ticket: $17
  • Admission Ticket to the Swiss Selfie Museum in Interlaken: $25
  • Private Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Express Tour from Interlaken: $31
  • Around Lower Lake Tour 1-4 people Privat With small car Top views: $36
  • Experience Switzerland in the Ballenberg open-air museum: $38
  • Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm: $44
  • Rope Park Climbing Adventure with Entry Ticket: $49
  • Harder Kulm - Top of Interlaken - Cable Car Ticket: $53
  • Schilthorn - Piz Gloria Ticket: $70
  • Schynige Platte - Top of Swiss Tradition ticket: $75
  • Bike Tour with Rivers, Lakes, and Hot Chocolate: $104

Typical Entertainment Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Schloss Ambras Entrance
    $8.93
  • Botanical Garden Entrance Fee
    $2.23

Tours and Activities in Innsbruck

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

  • „Welcome Tour“ von Per Pedes, geführte Stadtführung: $20
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Innsbruck: $193
  • AREA 47 Water AREA Entrance Ticket: $43
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $22
  • Austrian Hidden Gem Tour: The Most Beautiful Villages: $196
  • Bergisel Ski Jump Arena Entrance Ticket in Innsbruck: $11
  • Coffee Tasting & Roastery Tour in Innsbruck: $31
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $21
  • Cultural and culinary pleasure tour through Innsbruck's old town: $185
  • Full day small group Tour in Neuschwanstein from Innsbruck: $218
  • Full-Day small group tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes, Braies : $223
  • Fun & mobile puzzle rally tour through Innsbruck: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $18
    Innsbruck $22


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

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Innsbruck?

Innsbruck has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Innsbruck, 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.