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

Should you visit Interlaken or Linz?

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 Linz 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 food, hiking, and skiing.

Linz

Linz is a historic, beautiful, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Linz: 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
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Linz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Linz. Although Interlaken and Linz are popular destinations, Linz has more sights and attractions for tourists. Linz is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Linz and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Linz is famous for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries. It is also well known for The Castle of Linz.

How is Interlaken different from Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Linz Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Linz

Interlaken is a town with good options for snow skiing. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not a skiing destination.


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

Interlaken
Linz

Linz is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Linz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken
Linz

Interlaken is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Interlaken or Linz Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Linz

Linz 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 Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Interlaken or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Interlaken
Linz

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

Linz is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Linz Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Linz

Interlaken is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Linz is not a hiking destination.

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.

Linz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Linz?

Interlaken
Linz

Linz is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Linz. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Interlaken or Linz Better for Families?

Interlaken
Linz

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town 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!

Linz is a family-friendly town. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Interlaken or Linz Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Linz

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Linz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

Is Interlaken or Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Linz

Interlaken and Linz 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 Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.


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

Interlaken
Linz

Interlaken is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

Is Interlaken or Linz a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Linz

Linz 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.

Linz is very walkable. The tourist areas are easy to explore 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 Linz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Linz or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Linz?

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

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


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

One day in Interlaken or Linz?

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Interlaken. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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


A weekend in Interlaken or Linz?

Interlaken is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With food and shopping around the destination of Linz, 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 Linz?

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the adrenaline-filled destination of Interlaken. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Linz, 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 Linz?

The stunning town of Interlaken offers skiing and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Linz 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 in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Linz 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 Linz is $122. 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 Linz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $133
    Linz $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $266
    Linz $126
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Linz

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Linz? 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 Linz


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 Linz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Linz $44
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:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $212
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $180
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70

Is it cheaper to fly into Interlaken or Linz?

Prices for flights to both Linz 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
    Linz $34
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 Linz

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


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    $4.50
  • Lunch
    $9.11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Interlaken $104
    Linz $14

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 Linz

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

  • Christmas Tales of Linz – Private Walking Tour: $544
  • Christmas Tales of Linz – Private Walking Tour: $262
  • Cycling Tour of Linz with a Private Guide: $237
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $214
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Linz - Private Historic Walking Tour: $374
  • Linz Christmas Market Tour: $294
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $401
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $205
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $17
    Linz $17


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

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Linz?

Linz has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Linz, 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 Linz?

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 Linz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Linz. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Linz in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Linz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Linz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Linz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Interlaken this time of the year. In the summer, Interlaken often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Linz. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Linz. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F) 
    Linz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Linz in the Autumn?

Both Linz and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Linz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Linz. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Linz during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Linz. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F) 
    Linz 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Linz in the Winter?

Both Linz and Interlaken during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Linz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Linz can be very cold. Interlaken can be very cold during winter. Interlaken is much warmer than Linz in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Linz fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Linz. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in January than Linz. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F) 
    Linz -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Linz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Linz. The spring months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Linz this time of year.

In the spring, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Linz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Linz averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Linz during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Linz. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F) 
    Linz 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Linz and Interlaken

Interlaken Linz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) -0°C (31°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)