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

Should you visit Interlaken or Koblenz?

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

Interlaken

Interlaken is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and breathtaking town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Koblenz

Koblenz is a dynamic, accessible, and historic city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Koblenz: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Koblenz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koblenz. Although Interlaken and Koblenz are popular destinations, Koblenz has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koblenz is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Koblenz and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Koblenz is famous for its location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, its popularity with river cruises, and its many nearby vineyards. It is also well known for The Fortress of Ehrenbreitstein.

How is Interlaken different from Koblenz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Koblenz Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Koblenz

Interlaken is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Koblenz 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.

Koblenz is not a skiing destination.


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

Interlaken
Koblenz

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

Koblenz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most visitors head to the historic Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which can be reached by chairlift. Also make sure you visit the Forum Confluentes, the State Museum, the Romanticum, and the Koblenz Sparkling Wine Museum.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken
Koblenz

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

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.

Koblenz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is large enough to have a diversity of restaurants that serve everything from local German specialties to other European dishes. If you want to enjoy some regional cuisine, try the Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef), Döppekooche (potato cakes), or locally brewed beer.

Is Interlaken or Koblenz Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Koblenz

Koblenz is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Koblenz. It's a smaller city, but there are still pubs around town that attract a crowd. Enjoy the local beer and chat with the locals on a relaxing night out.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Interlaken or Koblenz Better for its Old Town?

Interlaken
Koblenz

Koblenz is very good for its historic old town. However, Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Koblenz is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is fun to explore with its beautiful churches and quaint ice cream shops.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Koblenz Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Koblenz

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Koblenz is not a hiking destination.

Interlaken is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Koblenz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Koblenz?

Interlaken
Koblenz

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Koblenz. There are a number of clothing shops in the old town where you can find a deal or splurge on a new outfit.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Interlaken or Koblenz Better for Families?

Interlaken
Koblenz

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Koblenz is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Interlaken is very family-friendly. 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!

For families, Koblenz is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy the chairlift across the river that leads to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. It's also fun to take a stroll along the river, grab ice cream in old town, and play at one of the parks around town.

Is Interlaken or Koblenz Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Koblenz

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

Interlaken is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Koblenz is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Seeped in romantic walks and historic buildings, couples will enjoy visiting this beautiful German town. Sip Reisling at one of the many restaurants or wander through the quaint old town.

Is Interlaken or Koblenz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Koblenz

Interlaken and Koblenz 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 Koblenz. There are a few affordable accommodation options around town. Food is reasonably priced as well so backpackers can enjoy a visit without breaking the bank.


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

Interlaken
Koblenz

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

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

While Koblenz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel the major routes around town. There's also a cable car that takes you up to the fortress.

Is Interlaken or Koblenz a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Koblenz

Interlaken and Koblenz are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Koblenz is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay in the old town, you'll have no trouble walking around, but the train station is a good distance from the old town.

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

Should I spend more time in Koblenz or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Koblenz?

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

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


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

One day in Interlaken or Koblenz?

In Interlaken, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and food around the historic city of Koblenz, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koblenz, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Interlaken or Koblenz?

In Interlaken, you'll find food and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Koblenz, 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 city.

Five days in Interlaken or Koblenz?

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koblenz, a popular city, 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 Koblenz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Interlaken. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koblenz 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Koblenz 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 Koblenz is $133. 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 Koblenz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $133
    Koblenz $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $266
    Koblenz $144
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Koblenz

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Koblenz? 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 Koblenz


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 Koblenz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Koblenz $45
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:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Interlaken or Koblenz?

Prices for flights to both Koblenz 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
    Koblenz $30
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
    Koblenz $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 Koblenz

Here are a few actual costs in Koblenz for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bochum Private Guided Walking Tour With A Professional Guide : $282
  • Cochem 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise: $15
  • Cochem Evening Panorama Cruise : $27
  • Cochem Private Guided Walking Tour: $247
  • Essen Private Guided Walking Tour: $271
  • Koblenz - Guided tour of the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress: $330
  • Koblenz Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $224
  • Koblenz private guided city tour: $403
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Rhine: $20
  • Christmas Boat Tour with Mulled Wine: $21
  • Historical Sparkling Wine Museum Guided Tour: $20
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive City Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $17
    Koblenz $8.34

Sample the Local Flavors in Koblenz

Also in Koblenz, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private wine tasting meets Bulli in the Ruhr area: $75


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

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Koblenz?

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

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 Koblenz in the Summer?

Both Koblenz and Interlaken during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Koblenz for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Interlaken is a little warmer than Koblenz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Koblenz averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Interlaken. In the summer, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Koblenz. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koblenz receives 191 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Koblenz. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F) 
    Koblenz 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Koblenz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Koblenz. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Koblenz because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Koblenz. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Koblenz fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Koblenz during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Koblenz receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Koblenz. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F) 
    Koblenz 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Koblenz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Koblenz. The winter months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the skiing and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Koblenz this time of year.

It's quite cold in Koblenz in the winter. The weather in Interlaken can be very cold. Interlaken is around the same temperature as Koblenz in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Koblenz fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Koblenz. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koblenz receives 45 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in January than Koblenz. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F) 
    Koblenz 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Koblenz in the Spring?

Both Koblenz and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Koblenz for the small town charm.

In the spring, Interlaken is a little warmer than Koblenz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Koblenz averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koblenz during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Koblenz receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Koblenz. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F) 
    Koblenz 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Koblenz and Interlaken

Interlaken Koblenz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)