A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inverness vs. Grindelwald for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Inverness or Grindelwald?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Grindelwald can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a local, historic, and cultural city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Inverness and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to Loch Ness
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Inverness or Grindelwald?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Inverness and Grindelwald are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Inverness is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Inverness is popular for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Inverness different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Inverness or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Inverness
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Inverness is not a skiing destination.

People head to Grindelwald specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Inverness is not a skiing destination.


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

Inverness
Grindelwald

Inverness is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Inverness specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

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

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

Inverness
Grindelwald

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

Dining out in Inverness is an experience not to be missed. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Grindelwald. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Inverness or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Inverness
Grindelwald

Both Inverness and Grindelwald are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Grindelwald. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.


Is Inverness or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Inverness
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Grindelwald?

Inverness
Grindelwald

Inverness is well known for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Inverness. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

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

Is Inverness or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Inverness
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Inverness is a family-friendly city. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.


Is Inverness or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Inverness
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Grindelwald is a very popular place to visit for couples. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.

Is Inverness or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inverness
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grindelwald is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

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

Inverness
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is very good for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Grindelwald has a few public transit options. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.


Is Inverness or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Inverness
Grindelwald

Inverness is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Inverness is a very walkable destination. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Inverness or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Inverness than Grindelwald because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Inverness, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Inverness. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Grindelwald, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Grindelwald than Inverness. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Grindelwald that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Inverness if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Grindelwald.


  • How many days in Inverness or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inverness 1-3 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Inverness or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the traditional city of Inverness. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Inverness or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Inverness. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and skiing. 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.


Five days in Inverness or Grindelwald?

The cultural city of Inverness offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Inverness or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Inverness. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grindelwald 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Grindelwald or Inverness?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inverness is £168, while the average daily cost in Grindelwald is £194. 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 Inverness and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inverness £91
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inverness £182
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Inverness and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Inverness or Grindelwald? 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 Inverness


Hotels in Grindelwald


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: Inverness Hotel Prices and Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inverness £33
    Grindelwald £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201

Is it cheaper to fly into Inverness or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Inverness 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
    Inverness £49
    Grindelwald £47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Inverness £44
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Inverness

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

  • City Discovery App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $15
  • Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm): $15
  • Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $17
  • SEA LIFE Loch Lomond General Admission Ticket: $20
  • Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass: $25
  • Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views: $27
  • Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch: $38
  • Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!: $38
  • Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness: $39
  • Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!: $44
  • Puffin Tour: $57

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Inverness £23
    Grindelwald £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

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

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,124


When comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Grindelwald, we can see that Grindelwald is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Inverness or Grindelwald?

Inverness has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Inverness and Grindelwald, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Inverness or Grindelwald?

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 Inverness or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Inverness and Grindelwald. The summer months attract visitors to Inverness because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

In the summer, Inverness is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the summer temperatures in Inverness in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during summer. Inverness gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Inverness usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Inverness gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Inverness 14°C (58°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Inverness as well as Grindelwald. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Inverness this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Inverness is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 9°C (49°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Inverness gets 84 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Inverness usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Inverness gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Inverness 9°C (49°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Grindelwald in the Winter?

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

Grindelwald can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Inverness. Inverness is much colder than Grindelwald in the winter. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. Inverness gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Inverness usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Inverness gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Inverness 3°C (38°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Inverness during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Inverness in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Inverness is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the spring temperatures in Inverness in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Inverness gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Inverness usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Inverness gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Inverness 7°C (44°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Inverness

Inverness Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)