A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Andrews vs. Grindelwald for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a peaceful, historic, and charming university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Saint Andrews and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • 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
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Andrews. Although Saint Andrews and Grindelwald are both popular with visitors, Saint Andrews has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Andrews is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, and shopping, while Grindelwald is known for its skiing and hiking. Grindelwald is more touristy than Saint Andrews and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Saint Andrews is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. It is also home to The Old Course.

The Old Course
The Old Course

How is Saint Andrews different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint Andrews or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Saint Andrews is not a skiing destination.

People head to Grindelwald specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. 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.

Saint Andrews is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Saint Andrews is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

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 Saint Andrews or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews is an experience not to be missed. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

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 Saint Andrews or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Both Saint Andrews and Grindelwald are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Grindelwald. 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 Saint Andrews or Grindelwald Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

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

Many people head to Saint Andrews to enjoy the beach. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint Andrews. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Saint Andrews. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

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 Saint Andrews or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly university town. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Is Saint Andrews or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Saint Andrews and Grindelwald are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Grindelwald makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Saint Andrews or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grindelwald is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.


Is Saint Andrews or Grindelwald Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Saint Andrews. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Both Saint Andrews and Grindelwald offer good public transit options.

Saint Andrews has a few public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Grindelwald has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Saint Andrews or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Grindelwald

Saint Andrews and Grindelwald both are good when exploring on foot.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable university town. 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 Saint Andrews Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saint Andrews or Grindelwald to fill your time. In our opinion, Saint Andrews has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Saint Andrews than Grindelwald. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the breathtaking small town of Grindelwald. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This university 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

Because Saint Andrews 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the breathtaking small town of Grindelwald. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.


A week in Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

Since Saint Andrews 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.

You'll find food and skiing around the beautiful town of Grindelwald. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing 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 Saint Andrews?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Andrews is £215, 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 Saint Andrews and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews


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: Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Grindelwald £43

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Saint Andrews 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
    Saint Andrews £62
    Grindelwald £47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Saint Andrews

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Saint Andrews are as follows:

  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $19
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19
  • St Andrews Walking Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Ghost Tours: $20
  • The Original St Andrews Photo Shoot Tour: $82
  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $146
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $146
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $146

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Grindelwald £26


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Andrews and Grindelwald, we can see that Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews Expensive? and Is Grindelwald Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Grindelwald?

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

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 Saint Andrews or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Grindelwald. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, 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 the summer, Saint Andrews is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Andrews in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Grindelwald. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the hiking trails, 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.

In October, Saint Andrews is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 10°C (49°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews in the winter. Saint Andrews is much colder than Grindelwald in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Saint Andrews during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint Andrews is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Andrews in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)