A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Grindelwald for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Grindelwald. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a adventure-filled, high adrenaline, and breathtaking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Isle of Skye and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Isle of Skye, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Isle of Skye is more popular for its food, beaches, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is well known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Grindelwald is well known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery.

The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Isle of Skye different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Isle of Skye or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Isle of Skye is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

Grindelwald is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye is an experience not to be missed. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Grindelwald Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is well known for the beach. However, Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Isle of Skye and Grindelwald, and they are first-rate.

Isle of Skye is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

People visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

Grindelwald is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Grindelwald is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Isle of Skye or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye and Grindelwald both high quality destinations for a couple.

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Couples visit Grindelwald frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Isle of Skye or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye and Grindelwald are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Isle of Skye is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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

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

Grindelwald is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Grindelwald is a good destination for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Isle of Skye than Grindelwald because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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.

One day in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the stunning island of Isle of Skye. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the dramatic destination of Isle of Skye. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island 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 fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the stunning island of Isle of Skye. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Grindelwald is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grindelwald is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isle of Skye and Grindelwald, we can see that Grindelwald is more expensive. And not only is Isle of Skye much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Isle of Skye would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Isle of Skye 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 Grindelwald would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Grindelwald than you might in Isle of Skye.

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

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

Isle of Skye has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Grindelwald?

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 Isle of Skye or Grindelwald in the Summer?

Both Grindelwald and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 13°C (55°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in July than Grindelwald. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Grindelwald. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Grindelwald in the autumn. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of rain as Grindelwald. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Grindelwald in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Grindelwald. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Grindelwald can be very cold. Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Isle of Skye is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the winter temperatures in Isle of Skye in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Grindelwald. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

In April, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 7°C (44°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Grindelwald during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. In April, Isle of Skye usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Isle of Skye