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

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Interlaken?

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 Interlaken. 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and breathtaking town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and food.

Lake District National Park and Interlaken: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Interlaken than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Interlaken is more touristy than Lake District National Park and is known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Also, Interlaken is famous for its many mountain views.. Lake District National Park is well known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes.

How is Lake District National Park different from Interlaken?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Interlaken 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 Interlaken Better for Skiing?

Lake District National Park
Interlaken

Interlaken is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Lake District National Park is not a skiing destination.

Head to Interlaken for some great skiing and other winter activities. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Lake District National Park
Interlaken

Foodies will find both Lake District National Park and Interlaken both to be high quality destinations.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Interlaken makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Lake District National Park or Interlaken Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Interlaken

Hiking trails can be found around both Lake District National Park and Interlaken, 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 Interlaken specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Is Lake District National Park or Interlaken Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Interlaken is very family-friendly. 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!

Lake District National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.


Is Lake District National Park or Interlaken Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Interlaken is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Lake District National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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

Lake District National Park
Interlaken

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

Many backpackers frequent Lake District National Park. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. 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.

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

Lake District National Park
Interlaken

Interlaken is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Interlaken offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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


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

Lake District National Park
Interlaken

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

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable town. The old town is relatively walkable.

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 Interlaken Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Interlaken?

In either Lake District National Park or Interlaken, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than Interlaken because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Interlaken.

Families should spend more time in Interlaken than Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Interlaken that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Interlaken? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Interlaken 2-5

One day in Lake District National Park or Interlaken?

With food around the relaxing national park of Lake District National Park, 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.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Interlaken. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Interlaken?

With food around the destination of Lake District National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many people visit Interlaken 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 Interlaken?

Lake District National Park, a popular national park, 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 national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the stunning destination of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Many people spend five days here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Lake District National Park or Interlaken?

Lake District National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Interlaken, 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich.


Which place is cheaper, Interlaken 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 Interlaken is £186. 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 Interlaken in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Interlaken £107
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Interlaken £214
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Interlaken

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park or Interlaken? 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 Interlaken


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Interlaken £10

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Interlaken

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Interlaken are as follows:


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    £53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Interlaken 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
    Interlaken £52

Typical Food Prices in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    £26

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Interlaken £84

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:

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Interlaken £14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Interlaken, we can see that Interlaken 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 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 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 Interlaken Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park or Interlaken?

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 Lake District National Park or Interlaken in the Summer?

Both Interlaken and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Interlaken in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lake District National Park is cooler than Interlaken. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lake District National Park in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Interlaken averages at about 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Interlaken. Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Interlaken during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Interlaken. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F)

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

Both Interlaken and Lake District National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 10°C (49°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Interlaken. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 120 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Interlaken. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Interlaken. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the skiing and the cuisine.

The weather in Interlaken can be very cold. Lake District National Park can be very cold during winter. Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Interlaken in the winter. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Interlaken fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Interlaken during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Interlaken. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Interlaken. The spring months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year.

In the spring, Lake District National Park is much colder than Interlaken. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lake District National Park in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Interlaken averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Interlaken. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 150 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Interlaken. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Interlaken and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Interlaken
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)