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

Should you visit Interlaken or Strasbourg?

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

Interlaken

Interlaken is a breathtaking, world-class, and stunning town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include skiing, food, and hiking.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a impressive, quaint, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Strasbourg: 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
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Strasbourg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Strasbourg. Although Interlaken and Strasbourg are both popular with visitors, Strasbourg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Strasbourg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Interlaken is known for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Strasbourg and is known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Strasbourg is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. It is also home to The Strasbourg Cathedral.

How is Interlaken different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Strasbourg Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

Interlaken is very good for skiing. However, Strasbourg is not a skiing destination.

Interlaken is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. 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.

Strasbourg is not a skiing destination.


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

Interlaken
Strasbourg

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

Many visitors head to Strasbourg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken
Strasbourg

Foodies will find both Interlaken and Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Interlaken or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Interlaken or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

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

The historic old town of Strasbourg is revered around the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Strasbourg Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

Interlaken is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Strasbourg?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Interlaken or Strasbourg Better for Families?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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!

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Interlaken or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

Interlaken is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Interlaken or Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

Interlaken and Strasbourg are both good 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 Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.


Is Interlaken or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

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

Plenty of students visit Strasbourg. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Interlaken
Strasbourg

Visitors will find very good public transit in both Interlaken and Strasbourg.

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.

Strasbourg has some very good public transit options. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

Is Interlaken or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Strasbourg

Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is very walkable. One of the best ways to explore the city is 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 Strasbourg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Strasbourg?

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

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


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

One day in Interlaken or Strasbourg?

With food and skiing around the breathtaking town of Interlaken, there's plenty to do. 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the picturesque city of Strasbourg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Interlaken or Strasbourg?

With skiing and food around the destination of Interlaken, there's plenty to do. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

Interlaken, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Strasbourg?

Interlaken 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.

Strasbourg 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg is $150. 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 Strasbourg in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Strasbourg? 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 Strasbourg


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 Strasbourg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $13
    Strasbourg $48
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 Group transfer Zurich Airport - Interlaken: $1,312
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $284
  • Private Transfer from Interlaken to Zurich: $240
  • Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Strasbourg

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

  • Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: $58
  • Private transfer Strasbourg Airport: $59
  • Private Transfer from Strasbourg Train Station to Hotel: $64
  • Private Transfer Strasbourg to Europa Park: $251
  • Door-to-Door private transfer and driver from Strasbourg to Basel: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Interlaken or Strasbourg?

Prices for flights to both Strasbourg 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
    Strasbourg $47
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Strasbourg

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

  • Strasbourg Private Food Tour: experience the city like a local!: $93
  • Strasbourg Food Tour : Gourmet private Tour with tastings: $102
  • Strasbourg Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Interlaken $104
    Strasbourg $26

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

Tours and Activities in Strasbourg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Strasbourg.

  • 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway: $64
  • Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg: $148
  • Alsace Wine Odyssey: Full-Day Private Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Alsace Wine Route Small Group Half-Day Tour with Tasting from Strasbourg: $107
  • Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour from Strasbourg: $175
  • Alsatian brunch with immersive cellar tour: $49
  • Alsatian tour, tasting and meal - 100% immersive experience: $60
  • Christmas Joy in Strasbourg Walking Tour: $641
  • Culinary city tour in Strasbourg with tastings: $104
  • Gems of Alsace: Private Full-Day Tour from Strasbourg: $2,031
  • Gourmet Bike Tour with a Locals in Strasbourg: $71
  • Guided Tours of Strasbourg Cathedral: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $17
    Strasbourg $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Strasbourg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Strasbourg:

  • Aperitif at the winemaker with cellar visit and wine tasting in Alsace: $11
  • Wine tasting and immersive cellar tour: $20
  • Wine tour, tasting and picnic basket: $38
  • From Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip: $118
  • Medieval Villages and Wine Tasting from Strasbourg: $120
  • Strasbourg : Wine Tour by bike with a local: $150
  • Wine Tasting Private Tour: $545


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

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Strasbourg?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg this time of year.

Interlaken is around the same temperature as Strasbourg in the summer. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Strasbourg this time of the year. In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during summer. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Interlaken or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Interlaken is a little warmer than Strasbourg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Interlaken in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in October than Strasbourg. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Interlaken or Strasbourg in the Winter?

Both Strasbourg and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Strasbourg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Strasbourg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. In January, Interlaken is generally much warmer than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 3°C (37°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during winter. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F) 
    Strasbourg 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Strasbourg in the Spring?

Both Strasbourg and Interlaken during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the natural beauty during these months.

Interlaken is around the same temperature as Strasbourg in the spring. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Interlaken often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in April than Strasbourg. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Interlaken

Interlaken Strasbourg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 2°C (35°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 15°C (59°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)