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

Should you visit Oxford or Grindelwald?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Oxford or Grindelwald, 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.

Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful, historic, and scholarly college town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald

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

Oxford and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Oxford or Grindelwald?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Oxford, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing and hiking, while Oxford is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than Oxford and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery. Oxford is well known for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Oxford different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Oxford or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Oxford
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Oxford 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.

Oxford is not a skiing destination.


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

Oxford
Grindelwald

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

Many visitors head to Oxford specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

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 Oxford or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oxford
Grindelwald

Both Oxford and Grindelwald offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Oxford. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Grindelwald. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Oxford or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Oxford
Grindelwald

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

Oxford is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're 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 Oxford or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Oxford
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Grindelwald draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Grindelwald?

Oxford
Grindelwald

Oxford is very good for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Oxford to go shopping. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

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 Oxford or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Oxford
Grindelwald

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

Grindelwald is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Oxford. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.


Is Oxford or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Oxford
Grindelwald

Oxford and Grindelwald are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Oxford makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

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 Oxford or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oxford
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options 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.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Oxford or Grindelwald Better for Students?

Oxford
Grindelwald

Oxford is a world-class destination for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Oxford. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.


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

Oxford
Grindelwald

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Oxford and Grindelwald.

Oxford has some public transit options. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

You'll find some public transit in Grindelwald, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Oxford or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Oxford
Grindelwald

Oxford is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Oxford is a very walkable destination. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Oxford Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Grindelwald?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Oxford 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 Oxford or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oxford 1-3 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Oxford or Grindelwald?

Oxford is a small town with plenty to do. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this college town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the small town destination of Grindelwald. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Oxford or Grindelwald?

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This college town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Oxford or Grindelwald?

Because Oxford is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Oxford or Grindelwald?

Since Oxford is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful small town of Grindelwald. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours 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 Oxford?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Oxford is £131, 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 Oxford and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oxford £72
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oxford £144
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Oxford and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Oxford 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 Oxford


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: Oxford Hotel Prices and Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oxford £27
    Grindelwald £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oxford

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

  • Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: Stansted Airport to Central London: $224
  • Fareham to Southampton Airport (SOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Gatwick Airport to Southampton Port or Hotel Private Airport Arrival Transfer: $230
  • National Express | Between Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airports Bus Transfers: $34
  • Oxford City to London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $196
  • Oxford Private Departure Transfer - Oxford Hotel/Accommodation to Oxford Airport: $68
  • Private One Way or Round Trip Transfer: Kensington SW London to Gatwick Airport: $147
  • Private Transfer from Gatwick city hotels to Dover Cruise Port: $55
  • Southampton - London Transfer: via Bath and Windsor: $234
  • Transfer in private Vehicle from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) - Central London: $96

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 Oxford or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Oxford 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
    Oxford £41
    Grindelwald £47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oxford £19
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Oxford

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

  • Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Carfax Tower Entry Ticket: $3.81
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Oxford's Literary Legends and Landmarks" A Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Explore Oxford's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour for Students: $11
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Stepping Through Oxford Walking Tour: $13

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
    Oxford £21
    Grindelwald £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Oxford

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oxford:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Cambridge: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Edinburgh: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Bristol: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Eccentric Oxford 3-Hour Pub Tour: $150
  • Wine Tasting in the Garden of England: $221


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

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


Which is Bigger, Oxford or Grindelwald?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford or Grindelwald in the Summer?

Both Grindelwald and Oxford during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Oxford is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 17°C (63°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Oxford gets 195 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. Oxford usually gets less rain in July than Grindelwald. Oxford gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Oxford 17°C (63°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Grindelwald. The autumn months attract visitors to Oxford because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

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

Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during autumn. Oxford gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Oxford usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Oxford or Grindelwald in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Oxford as well as Grindelwald. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Oxford this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Grindelwald. It's quite cold in Oxford in the winter. In the winter, Oxford is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the winter temperatures in Oxford in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets less rain in January than Grindelwald. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Oxford 3°C (38°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Oxford or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Oxford are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Oxford is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 9°C (48°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during spring. Oxford gets 147 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, Oxford usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Oxford 9°C (48°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Oxford

Oxford Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)