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

Should you visit Saaremaa or Grindelwald?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa 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.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a quiet, calm, and peaceful island. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and beaches.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a breathtaking, beautiful, and adventure-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Saaremaa and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Grindelwald?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Saaremaa and Grindelwald are popular destinations, Grindelwald has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grindelwald is very popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Saaremaa attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and small town charm. Grindelwald is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also well known for the beautiful mountain scenery. Saaremaa is famous for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Saaremaa different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saaremaa or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is great for skiing. However, Saaremaa is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Saaremaa is not a skiing destination.

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

Grindelwald is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saaremaa or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa is an experience not to be missed. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

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 Saaremaa or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Grindelwald Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa is very good for the beach. However, Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Saaremaa to enjoy the beach. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Is Saaremaa or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Saaremaa 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.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Grindelwald?

Grindelwald is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Grindelwald has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Grindelwald is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Grindelwald. 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.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

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

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

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 Saaremaa or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Grindelwald. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

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

Grindelwald is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Grindelwald is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saaremaa or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

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

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

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

One day in Saaremaa or Grindelwald?

Saaremaa is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

The beautiful town of Grindelwald offers skiing and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Grindelwald?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This island 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. 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, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Grindelwald?

Because Saaremaa 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.

Grindelwald is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Grindelwald?

Since Saaremaa 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.

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Grindelwald?

Saaremaa has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Grindelwald. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Saaremaa is cooler than Grindelwald in the summer. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saaremaa this time of the year. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Grindelwald. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Saaremaa usually gets less rain in July than Grindelwald. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

Both Grindelwald and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of 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.

In the autumn, Saaremaa is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saaremaa in October average around 8°C (47°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 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, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Saaremaa during the winter are popular places to visit. The cuisine are the main draw to Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa in the winter. In January, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around -3°C (27°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Grindelwald. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Grindelwald in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Grindelwald. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the beaches, 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.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saaremaa. Saaremaa is much colder than Grindelwald in the spring. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 4°C (38°F) in April, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Grindelwald during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 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, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Saaremaa