A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Grindelwald for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a enjoyable, unique, and beautiful national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a adventure-filled, high adrenaline, and breathtaking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Lake District National Park and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Grindelwald?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Lake District National Park and Grindelwald are popular destinations, Grindelwald has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grindelwald is very popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is famous for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Grindelwald is famous for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also well known for the beautiful mountain scenery.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Lake District National Park different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lake District National Park or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Lake District National Park is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Grindelwald?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park is an experience not to be missed. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

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 Lake District National Park or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Lake District National Park or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Hiking trails can be found around both Lake District National Park and Grindelwald, and they are first-rate.

Lake District National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

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 Lake District National Park or Grindelwald?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Grindelwald has some good spots for those that want to go 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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Both Lake District National Park and Grindelwald are high quality family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

Grindelwald is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.


Is Lake District National Park or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Lake District National Park and Grindelwald both high quality destinations for a couple.

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

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 Lake District National Park or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lake District National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Grindelwald is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Is Lake District National Park or Grindelwald Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.


Is Lake District National Park or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lake District National Park or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lake District National Park than Grindelwald because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Lake District National Park or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the unique national park of Lake District National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the spectacular destination of Lake District National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Grindelwald for a weekend. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Lake District National Park or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful national park of Lake District National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Because Grindelwald is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Lake District National Park or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

Grindelwald, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Grindelwald or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, 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 Lake District National Park and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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: Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Grindelwald £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    Grindelwald £47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Grindelwald £26


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

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



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Grindelwald in the Summer?

Both Grindelwald and Lake District National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lake District National Park is much colder than Grindelwald in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Lake District National Park gets 159 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. Lake District National Park usually gets less rain in July than Grindelwald. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Grindelwald. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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.

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Grindelwald. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Grindelwald in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Grindelwald. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. Lake District National Park can be very cold during winter. In January, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Grindelwald. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Grindelwald in the Spring?

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

Lake District National Park is much colder than Grindelwald in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 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, Lake District National Park usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)