A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lausanne vs. Cairngorms National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lausanne

Lausanne is a international, diverse, and vibrant city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a beautiful, serene, and picturesque national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Lausanne and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lausanne. Although Lausanne and Cairngorms National Park are popular destinations, Lausanne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lausanne is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cairngorms National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Lausanne and is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Lausanne is famous for being the home of the International Olympic Committee headquarters. It is also well known for The Olympic Museum.

How is Lausanne different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Lausanne is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Lausanne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. You'll find many great museums around town that cover a range of topics. The Olympic Museum is very interesting. You should also check out the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, and the Hermitage Foundation.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Lausanne is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Lausanne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is filled with delicious chocolate, cheese, and wine. Fondue is a favorite, but you'll also find cured meats on most menus. While food can be expensive, it's also high quality and usually locally produced.

Cairngorms National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Lausanne is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Lausanne. There are a surprising number of clubs around town and it's not hard to find somewhere to party. The large student population and the international vibe make this a fascinating place for nightlife.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Lausanne is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.

Lausanne has an old town worth visiting. There's a relatively large historic section that has a Gothic cathedral and many quaint shops.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Lausanne is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Lausanne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Lausanne is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lausanne. You'll find luxury Swiss watch brands, jewelry, chocolate, and many other interesting things to buy. Prices can be high, but so is the quality. It's fun to look, even if you're not planning to purchase.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cairngorms National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Lausanne offers lots of family activities. There are kid-friendly museums, petting zoos, and other fun activities in town. You can also take a boat ride or let the kids run around one of the parks in town.


Is Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for couples. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Cairngorms National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Lausanne is a nice destination for couples. The medieval old city is fun to explore. The lakefront setting also offers fun activities like boating. There are also a number of museums in town to explore.

Is Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Lausanne is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Lausanne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular town for backpackers but there are some affordable hotels. It's also more reasonably priced than many Swiss cities.

Is Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Lausanne is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Lausanne is very popular with students. There are 11 institutes for higher learning in town, so students make up a significant percentage of the population. The city is also full of culture, making it a very livable city.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.


Is Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Lausanne is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Lausanne has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive network of transportation options available in town including buses and boats.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Lausanne
Cairngorms National Park

Lausanne is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Lausanne is a somewhat walkable city. Many parts of the city, including the historic sections, and relatively easy to explore on foot.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lausanne Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Lausanne?

How long in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Lausanne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Lausanne, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

Couples should spend more time in Lausanne than Cairngorms National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lausanne that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lausanne than Cairngorms 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 Lausanne.


  • How many days in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lausanne 1-2 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the international city of Lausanne, there's plenty to do. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The beautiful national park of Cairngorms National Park offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the diverse destination of Lausanne, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse city of Lausanne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cairngorms National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

Lausanne is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cairngorms National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Lausanne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lausanne is $227, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is $148. 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 Lausanne and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lausanne $136
    Cairngorms National Park $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lausanne $272
    Cairngorms National Park $138
Compare Hotels in Lausanne and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Lausanne


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


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: Lausanne Hotel Prices and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lausanne $41
    Cairngorms National Park $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lausanne

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lausanne:

  • Taxi, Airport Transfer and Limousine Service in Switzerland: $233
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Évian-les-Bains: $160
  • Lausanne accommodation to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Private Transfer: $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Lausanne or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Lausanne 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
    Lausanne $62
    Cairngorms National Park $38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lausanne $38
    Cairngorms National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Lausanne

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

  • Évian-les-Bains Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $297
  • (KTL303) - Winter Tour Montreux and Chaplin's World from Lausanne: $157
  • Boat cruise from Lausanne to Evian: $43
  • Chaplin's World Entrance Ticket: $34
  • Christmas Charms of A Private Walking Tour: $724
  • Fascinating Charms of Vevey – Walking Tour for Couples: $180
  • From Glacier 3000 Experience Tour: $97
  • From Glacier 3000 experience and Montreux: $104
  • From Interlaken and Jungfrau Train Experience: $370
  • From Spectacular Schilthorn with 007 Experience: $257
  • From Swiss Riviera Tour: $152
  • Gems of Lausanne Revealed: A Private Walking Tour: $617

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

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

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lausanne $27
    Cairngorms National Park $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Lausanne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lausanne:

  • Swiss cheese and charcuterie wine tasting: $50


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

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