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

Should you visit Manchester 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 Manchester and Grindelwald can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a cultural, vibrant, and dynamic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a breathtaking, beautiful, and adventure-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Manchester and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
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 Manchester or Grindelwald?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Manchester than Grindelwald, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Manchester is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than Manchester and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Manchester is well known for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club. Also, Manchester is famous for The National Football Museum.

How is Manchester different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Manchester or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Manchester
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is great for skiing. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester is not a skiing destination.


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

Manchester
Grindelwald

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

Many visitors head to Manchester specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

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 Manchester or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Manchester
Grindelwald

Manchester 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 Manchester is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

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 Manchester or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Manchester
Grindelwald

Manchester is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Manchester is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

If you're looking for night time activities Grindelwald has a few options to choose from. 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 Manchester or Grindelwald Better for Music?

Manchester
Grindelwald

Manchester is well known for its music scene. However, Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

Is Manchester or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Manchester
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is very popular for hiking. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Grindelwald?

Manchester
Grindelwald

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Manchester. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

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 Manchester or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Manchester
Grindelwald

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Manchester or Grindelwald.

Manchester is a very family-friendly destination. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

Grindelwald is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Manchester or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Manchester
Grindelwald

Both Manchester and Grindelwald are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Manchester is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

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.

Is Manchester or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Manchester
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.


Is Manchester or Grindelwald Better for Students?

Manchester
Grindelwald

Manchester is well known for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Manchester is very popular with students. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Manchester
Grindelwald

Manchester is well known for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Manchester can get you to most places easily. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

While Grindelwald offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Manchester or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Manchester
Grindelwald

Manchester and Grindelwald are notable when it comes to walkability.

Manchester is somewhat walkable. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Manchester Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Manchester or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Manchester than Grindelwald because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Manchester, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Manchester than Grindelwald 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 Manchester.


  • How many days in Manchester or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Manchester 2-4 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Manchester or Grindelwald?

Manchester is a diverse city where you can fill many days. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grindelwald, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Manchester or Grindelwald?

Manchester is a dynamic big city where you can fill many days. 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.

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Manchester or Grindelwald?

The vibrant city of Manchester offers museums and nightlife. 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, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Manchester or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Manchester. 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 place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to 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 Manchester?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Manchester is £184, 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 Manchester and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Manchester £71
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Manchester £142
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Manchester and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Manchester 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 Manchester


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: Manchester Hotel Prices and Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Manchester £19
    Grindelwald £43
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Manchester

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


  • Rail to Airport
    £11
  • Parking in Manchester
    £3.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Manchester

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Manchester Airport MAN to Liverpool in Business Car: $121
  • Manchester Airport (MAN) to Manchester - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $116
  • Manchester Airport (MAN): Private Transfer to Liverpool City: $249
  • Manchester Airport (MAN): Private Transfer to Manchester: $155
  • Manchester Airport(MAN) to Liverpool- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $157
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from London: $8.12
  • Manchester Private Transfer from Manchester Airport to City centre: $75
  • 1-Wsy Airport Bus Transfer to/from Leeds: $6.86
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Manchester Airport: $99
  • Private Round-Trip Transfer From Manchester Airport to Old Trafford Stadium: $279
  • Private Transfer Manchester Airport to Lake District Ski Club: $87
  • Private Transfer from Astley to Manchester Airport (MAN): $65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Manchester or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Manchester 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
    Manchester £55
    Grindelwald £47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Manchester

For Manchester, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Hard Rock Cafe Manchester with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Pistachio LOVERS Italian Dinner Experience: $35
  • Private Italian Dinner with a Romantic Night Experience: $63
  • 2 Hours Sicilian Wine Tasting and Dinner at Manchester: $76
  • Manchester Food Tour with a Local Guide: $87
  • Half-Day Manchester Food Tour with Lunch: $89
  • 3-Hour Guided Manchester Food Tour with Lunch : $95
  • Private Food Tour with Local Guide: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Manchester £30
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Manchester

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Manchester.

  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • Manchester City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Manchester’s Rebirth and Renewal: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • England's First Industrial City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Salford Quays Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Canal & River Cruise: $15
  • City River Tour: $15

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
    Manchester £9.90
    Grindelwald £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Manchester

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Manchester:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Four hour walking wine tasting tour of Manchester's best bars: $101


When comparing the travel costs between Manchester 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 Manchester Expensive? and Is Grindelwald Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Manchester or Grindelwald?

Manchester has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Grindelwald. The summer months attract visitors to Manchester because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

In July, Manchester is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 16°C (62°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. In the summer, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Manchester usually gets less rain in July than Grindelwald. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Manchester 16°C (62°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Manchester or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

Both Grindelwald and Manchester are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Manchester 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.

Manchester is cooler than Grindelwald in the autumn. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. In October, Manchester usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Manchester 11°C (52°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Manchester or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Manchester during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Manchester 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 Manchester. In the winter, Manchester is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the winter temperatures in Manchester in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets less rain in January than Grindelwald. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Manchester 4°C (39°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Manchester or Grindelwald in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Grindelwald. Many visitors come to Manchester in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Manchester is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 8°C (46°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Manchester usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Manchester 8°C (46°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Manchester

Manchester Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)