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

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Interlaken?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Interlaken, 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 quaint, peaceful, and historic university 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class, stunning, and adventurous town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Saint Andrews and Interlaken: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Interlaken?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Andrews. Although Saint Andrews and Interlaken are popular destinations, Saint Andrews has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Andrews is very popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Saint Andrews and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Saint Andrews is famous for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. It is also well known for The Old Course.

The Old Course

How is Saint Andrews different from Interlaken?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint Andrews or Interlaken Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a nice place to visit for snow skiing. However, Saint Andrews is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Saint Andrews is not a skiing destination.

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

Saint Andrews is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint Andrews is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saint Andrews or Interlaken? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Saint Andrews and Interlaken.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Andrews. 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.

Interlaken has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Is Saint Andrews or Interlaken Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews is very good for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Saint Andrews or Interlaken Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews is very good for its beaches. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Interlaken Better for Hiking?

Interlaken 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, Interlaken draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

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 Interlaken?

Saint Andrews is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Interlaken Better for Families?

Interlaken is terrific 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.

Interlaken is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken Better for Couples?

Interlaken is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for couples.

Interlaken has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Saint Andrews makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Saint Andrews or Interlaken Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

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 Interlaken Better for Students?

Saint Andrews is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Interlaken is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Interlaken can get you around easily. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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

Is Saint Andrews or Interlaken a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews and Interlaken both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable university town. The old town is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Andrews Worth Visiting? and Is Interlaken Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Interlaken or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Interlaken?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Interlaken 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 Interlaken.

One day in Saint Andrews or Interlaken?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Andrews, one day is sufficent for most.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the world-class destination of Interlaken. 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Interlaken?

Even though Saint Andrews is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this university town.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. 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 Interlaken?

Saint Andrews, a popular university town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the world-class destination of Interlaken. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Saint Andrews or Interlaken?

Saint Andrews is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

You'll find food and skiing around the beautiful town of Interlaken. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich.

When comparing the travel costs between Saint Andrews and Interlaken, 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 Interlaken Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Interlaken?

Saint Andrews has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews and Interlaken, 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 Interlaken?

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 Saint Andrews or Interlaken in the Summer?

Both Interlaken and Saint Andrews during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 14°C (58°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Interlaken. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 241 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in July than Interlaken. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Interlaken in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Interlaken. 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. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year.

Saint Andrews is cooler than Interlaken in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Interlaken fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Interlaken during autumn. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Interlaken in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Interlaken. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. It's quite cold in Saint Andrews in the winter. In the winter, Saint Andrews is around the same temperature as Interlaken. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Andrews in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Interlaken averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Saint Andrews often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Interlaken. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 55 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in January than Interlaken. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Interlaken in the Spring?

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

In April, Saint Andrews is generally much colder than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 7°C (45°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Interlaken during spring. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Interlaken and Saint Andrews