A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Snowdonia National Park vs. Grindelwald for Hiking, Couples, Skiing, and Families

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a natural, scenic, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

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.

Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for skiing
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Snowdonia National Park is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Snowdonia National Park is popular for its beautiful mountain landscape.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a good national park for skiing and snowboarding.

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.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Snowdonia National Park for snow skiing. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Grindelwald offers a few options for museum-goers. 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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Both Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Snowdonia National Park. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

Grindelwald is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Snowdonia National Park is very good for the beach. However, Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Snowdonia National Park to enjoy the beach. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.

Grindelwald is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

You'll find fantastic hiking in both Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald.

Many people visit Snowdonia National Park specifically for its hiking. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a moderate town for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grindelwald has some nice offerings. 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald.

Snowdonia National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Snowdonia National Park is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Snowdonia National Park has plenty to offer. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

Grindelwald is a great national park if you're traveling as 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 Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Both Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald are very good destinations for backpackers.

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.

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.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Both Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald offer good public transit options.

Snowdonia National Park has a few public transit options. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Snowdonia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Snowdonia National Park than Grindelwald because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Snowdonia National Park. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grindelwald than Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the natural national park of Snowdonia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 is a small town with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.


A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the rugged destination of Snowdonia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Grindelwald is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the natural national park of Snowdonia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. Most people head to the area for the hiking. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Snowdonia National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Most people head to the area for the hiking. 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury 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 Snowdonia National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Snowdonia National Park is £75, 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 Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park


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.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Grindelwald £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Snowdonia National Park:

  • Private Transfer from Caernarfon to Manchester Airport (MAN): $250

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 Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Snowdonia National Park 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
    Snowdonia National Park £19
    Grindelwald £47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Snowdonia National Park are as follows:

  • Anglesey Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • 2 Hours Historical Tour of Caernarfon: $33
  • Snowdon Kayak Adventure on Llyn Padarn: $56

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
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Grindelwald £26


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

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



When is the best time to visit Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Grindelwald. The summer months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

In the summer, Snowdonia National Park is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the summer temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in July average around 15°C (60°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. In Snowdonia National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Snowdonia National Park usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during summer. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 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, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Grindelwald. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park 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.

In October, Snowdonia National Park is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 12°C (53°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the skiing 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. Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Grindelwald in the winter. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Grindelwald. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Snowdonia National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the spring temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Grindelwald. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 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. Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)